Power is the lifeblood of mission-critical facilities and maintaining the electrical systems that distribute that power throughout those buildings is not just good practice—it’s a safety imperative. With the 2023 update, NFPA 70B transitioned from a recommended guide to an enforceable standard, making electrical maintenance plans (EMPs) a compliance requirement for many facilities.
An EMP is no longer optional. It’s now a critical framework for protecting people, property, and operations. At C&H Electric, we help facilities develop and implement NFPA 70B-compliant Electrical Maintenance Plans to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. Let’s explore what an EMP is, why it matters, and what must be included to ensure your facility stays compliant and safe.
NFPA 70B is the Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, providing guidance for creating maintenance programs that mitigate risks associated with electrical equipment failure. The 2023 edition elevated its importance by establishing maintenance requirements rather than suggestions.
An Electrical Maintenance Plan (EMP) is a structured, documented program that outlines how an organization manages the maintenance, inspection, and testing of its electrical systems. It ensures compliance, operational efficiency, and reduced safety risks.
An EMP is no longer optional. It’s now a critical framework for protecting people, property, and operations. At C&H Electric, we help facilities develop and implement NFPA 70B-compliant Electrical Maintenance Plans to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. Let’s explore what an EMP is, why it matters, and what must be included to ensure your facility stays compliant and safe.
A comprehensive EMP should address all critical aspects of electrical system maintenance, from safety protocols to documentation and continuous improvement. Below are the key elements that form the foundation of a compliant plan:
A complete EMP must align with the facility’s Electrical Safety Program, addressing the condition of maintenance as it relates to worker safety, including procedures for de-energized and energized work.
Clearly define who is responsible for implementing each component of the EMP—from facility managers to maintenance technicians. Assign accountability for inspections, repairs, documentation, and reviews.
Perform a comprehensive survey of all electrical assets to categorize equipment based on criticality, condition, and maintenance needs. This analysis guides prioritization.
Develop documented maintenance procedures tailored to each equipment type, factoring in the operating environment and criticality. Qualified personnel should review and approve all procedures to ensure NFPA 70B compliance. Procedures should include:
- Inspection Checklists
- Testing Requirements
- Cleaning, Lubrication, and Torquing Methods
Establish an inspection and testing schedule based on NFPA 70B intervals or condition assessments. One may incorporate maintenance and testing techniques such as:
- Infrared Tthermography
- Insulation Rresistance Ttesting
- Primary Injection Testing
Maintain detailed records of inspections, testing, maintenance activities, corrective actions, and training. Records should be readily available for audits and compliance verification.
Create a workflow for addressing deficiencies found during inspections. This includes prioritization, repair scheduling, and follow-up inspections.
When installing or modifying equipment, design considerations must include ease of access for maintenance, testing points, and labeling.
Schedule regular reviews of the EMP (full audit required at least every 5 years) to ensure continuous improvement. Update procedures and documentation to reflect equipment changes, regulation updates, and best practices.
A strong EMP is a living document—constantly evolving to meet new challenges and maintain optimal safety and reliability.
- Assemble a qualified team familiar with NFPA 70B requirements.
- Perform a facility-wide electrical system survey.
- Categorize equipment by condition, criticality, and maintenance needs.
- Create or update maintenance procedures and inspection schedules.
- Implement record-keeping systems.
- Train personnel on EMP procedures and responsibilities.
- Monitor, review, and refine the plan on an ongoing basis, with formal EMP reviews conducted at least annually or whenever significant changes to the electrical system occur.
- Enhanced Worker Safety: Reduces the risk of arc flash incidents and electrical injuries.
- Operational Reliability: Minimizes unplanned outages and expensive downtime.
- Regulatory Compliance: Aligns with OSHA, NFPA 70B, and insurance requirements.
- Longer Equipment Lifespan: Well-maintained equipment operates more efficiently and lasts longer.
- Lower Costs: Preventive maintenance is significantly less expensive than emergency repairs and replacements.
An EMP isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about ensuring the longevity and reliability of your entire operation.
