NFPA 70E is the leading standard for electrical safety in the workplace. It exists to help organizations reduce the risk of arc flash incidents, electrical injuries, and unscheduled downtime . But staying compliant requires more than labels and lockout/tagout procedures—it requires a holistic, well-documented approach.
This post outlines the six essential actions every facility must take to achieve and maintain NFPA 70E compliance. Whether you’re developing a new Electrical Safety Program or updating an existing one, these six steps are your foundation.
A single-line diagram is the blueprint for your electrical system. It must be kept up-to-date, clearly legible, and readily available to qualified personnel.
- Ensure the diagram reflects the latest system changes
- Make it accessible at all times to authorized workers
NFPA 70E 205.2: A current, legible single-line diagram must be available for all electrical systems.
Arc flash risk assessments are the cornerstone of NFPA 70E compliance. Facilities must assess hazards, implement controls, and update documentation at least every five (5) years—or sooner if system changes occur.
- Identify equipment-specific arc flash hazards
- Implement protective measures based on risk levels
- Apply warning labels to equipment
NFPA 70E 130.5: Risk assessments must be documented and reviewed every 5 years or after any major change.
3. Maintain Electrical Equipments per NFPA 70E and 70B
Proper maintenance helps ensure the reliability and safety of electrical equipment and distribution systems. NFPA 70E now requires that maintenance be performed in accordance with NFPA 70B.
- For example: perform annual infrared thermography on electrical equipment
- Follow condition-based maintenance schedules outlined in NFPA 70B 2023 9.2.2
- Document all maintenance activities
NFPA 70E 205.3 & 205.4: Equipment and overcurrent protective devices must be maintained as per NFPA 70B.
4. Train Employees on NFPA 70E Every Three Years
Training is essential for ensuring workers understand the hazards and know how to work safely around energized equipment. Refresher training must occur at least every three years—or sooner if there are code updates or operational changes.
- Train employees on hazard awareness, safe work practices, and PPE use
- Keep training documentation for all attendees
NFPA 70E 110.6: Electrical safety training must be provided at least every three years.
5. Provide Appropriate PPE for All Employees
PPE is your last line of defense against arc flash and electrical hazards. Workers must be provided with PPE suitable for the specific tasks they perform and the hazards they may face.
- Conduct a PPE assessment based on hazard analysis
- Ensure PPE is available, inspected, and maintained
A written Electrical Safety Program is required under NFPA 70E. It should outline the company’s safety policies, hazard control procedures, and emergency response plans.
- Include conditions of maintenance and the qualified worker’s responsibilities
- Integrate a documented Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP) as per NFPA 70B
NFPA 70E 110.5: Employers must implement a safety program and document all procedures.
Download Our FREE NFPA 70E Compliance Checklist
Want a quick reference for your compliance efforts? Download our free NFPA 70E Checklist to keep track of the six essential action items your facility needs to meet current safety standards.