News & Events
As of March 29, 2021 Illinois has entered into Phase 1C for COVID-19 vaccination eligibility. Phase 1C includes Construction Trade Workers in the expanded eligibility list. This expansion opens eligibility to Local 117 members. Local 117 members are encouraged to get the vaccine to help keep our job sites, members, and their families safe.
Covid Referral Policy
Until further notice, to limit the amount of foot traffic in the Union office, you may sign the out of work book by calling the Union office or e-mailing us and we will take care of it for you. Book II signs will need a phone call or e-mail from their home local office and a copy of their current dues receipt and we will add them to book II.
If you are on the out of work book and you test positive for Covid-19 and provide a document of the test results you will not accumulate strikes for being unable to bid on long calls for 14 days from the date of the test, or a letter from a doctor stating you are still under the effects of Covid-19 past the 14 days. The short call policy will remain unchanged with one exception, if you happen to be on a short call and the job you are on is shut down for a period of time due to Covid-19 your short call may be extended for the amount of days the job was shut down. If you were paid during the time your job site was shut down through the Cares Act or you were transferred to another job site your short call will not be extended.
In Local 117 we have now had several job sites where the Covid-19 virus has infected local members and other tradesmen. We have also had apprentices test positive. Lately, every day it seems we are hearing of a member testing positive or having to quarantine for 14 days. The pandemic is currently spreading and appears to be more prevalent now than what it was in March and April. It is very disappointing to walk a job site and see the majority of tradesmen working and not wearing a mask. Then to find out the virus has spread through the job site. Please be responsible and wear a mask and be safe.
Thanksgiving and Christmas soon will be here. Our December Union meeting and Christmas Party at Randall Oaks is cancelled. Depending on the status of the Covid-19 situation and restrictions in the state we are planning on having the December Union Meeting at the Union Hall. No refreshments will be served. We will take care of the necessary business and be on our way.
Please find the attached agreement between the IBEW and NECA regarding these rapidly changing times.
Here is a link to the FMCP information about hours adjustments and eligiblity.
Important Information about Coronavirus and Your Benefit Plan
Here are some links to guidelines for safe practices during the current COVID-19 (coronavirus) event.
Illinois Department of Public Health
As of July 1, 2019, Local 117 referral policy is going to a web-based bid system (we will no longer be calling you for available jobs).
Please review the attached policy.
Any questions please contact IBEW Local 117 for assistance.
For Non-members interested in potential solar opportunities or the electrical industry, please utilize the wepoweramerica.org site.
Attention: Do not use any Quest drug testing facilities. Quest has been contracting non-union electrical contractors at their facilities. Please use the following testing facilities or use this link to find other available facilities:
Lab Corp - Crystal Lake
5911 Northwest Highway
815-356-3829
Hours: 9am-11am and 2pm-4pm
Lab Corp - Elgin
1710 North Randall Rd.
847-214-8157
Hours: 9am- 11am and 2pm- 4pm