Electrical hazards are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. NFPA 70E, the Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, was developed at the request of OSHA to help businesses protect workers from electrical hazards and ensure regulatory compliance. However, achieving full compliance can be complex without a structured approach.
To simplify compliance, industry experts recommend focusing on six key areas that form the foundation of an effective electrical safety program. In this guide, we’ll break down these Six Keys to NFPA 70E Compliance, explain their importance, and show how C&H Electric can help your business implement them successfully.
1. Ensure Electrical Installations Meet NFPA 70 & Identify Electrical Hazards
The first step to NFPA 70E compliance is ensuring that all electrical installations comply with NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code – NEC). Compliance with NFPA 70 ensures that electrical systems are designed and installed safely, reducing the risk of fires, electrocution, and arc flash incidents.
Additionally, businesses must identify electrical hazards through a systematic assessment of the workplace. This includes recognizing potential risks associated with shock, arc flash, and equipment failures.
KEY ACTIONS
- Verify that all new and existing electrical installations follow NFPA 70 (NEC) standards.
- Conduct comprehensive electrical hazard assessments to identify potential risks.
- Ensure that all electrical equipment is properly labeled with voltage ratings, arc flash boundaries, and hazard warnings.
2. Assess Risk & Implement Safety Controls
After identifying electrical hazards, businesses must assess the severity and likelihood of potential incidents. NFPA 70E requires employers to evaluate arc flash risks, shock hazards, and equipment conditions and take appropriate measures to control them.
KEY ACTIONS
- Conduct a thorough risk assessment in accordance with NFPA 70E guidelines.
- Implement engineering controls such as insulated barriers, protective devices, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) programs.
- Assign risk levels to all electrical tasks using NFPA 70E’s hierarchy of risk controls.
3. Train Workers on Electrical Safety
A compliant workplace relies on properly trained personnel. NFPA 70E mandates that all employees working on or near electrical systems receive electrical safety training relevant to their job responsibilities.
KEY ACTIONS
- Provide NFPA 70E electrical safety training to qualified and unqualified workers.
- Train employees on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements, proper procedures, and hazard awareness.
- Ensure workers understand the importance of de-energizing equipment before servicing.
4. Use Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
When working on or near electrical equipment, employees must wear the appropriate PPE to reduce injury risks. NFPA 70E defines specific PPE requirements based on hazard levels, ensuring protection against arc flash, electrical shock, and thermal burns.
KEY ACTIONS
- Conduct a PPE hazard assessment to determine the necessary protective gear for each task.
- Equip workers with arc-rated clothing, gloves, face shields, and insulated tools.
- Ensure PPE is regularly inspected, maintained, and replaced when necessary.
5. Maintain Electrical Equipment & Perform Regular Inspections
NFPA 70B (the Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance) is a critical component of NFPA 70E compliance. Proper maintenance ensures electrical systems operate safely and efficiently, reducing unexpected failures and hazards.
KEY ACTIONS
- Develop a predictive electrical maintenance program following NFPA 70B guidelines.
- Perform regular equipment inspections, including Infrared Testing, Ultrasonic Testing, and Voltage & Current Analysis.
- Keep detailed maintenance records to support compliance and ensure equipment reliability.
6. Implement an Electrical Safety Program & Culture
A strong safety culture is essential for long-term compliance. NFPA 70E requires businesses to establish an Electrical Safety Program (ESP) that outlines policies, procedures, and responsibilities for electrical safety in the workplace.
KEY ACTIONS
- Develop a written Electrical Safety Program (ESP) aligned with NFPA 70E requirements.
- Develop a written Electrical Safety Program (ESP) aligned with NFPA 70E requirements.
- Promote a culture of accountability, ensuring all employees prioritize electrical safety.
Ensuring Compliance with C&H Electric
At C&H Electric, we help businesses achieve NFPA 70E compliance by providing expert electrical safety services and ensuring workplaces remain safe, efficient, and regulation compliant.
