SAFETY SOLUTIONS: OSHA Electrical Safety and Training

Electrical safety and the NFPA 70E electrical requirements are fast becoming a very hot issue in the OSHA world. It is my opinion that most companies are not ready for the new OSHA electrical safety regulations or NFPA 70E.

At the present time, everyone I talk to is out buying Arc Flash clothing and conducting their Arc Flash Analysis thinking this is all they have to do to comply with OSHA. But they are missing the most important part of the OSHA standard.

What is it? Safe, written work procedures and training according to Subpart S Electrical safety rules.

What is the connection between NFPA 70E and OSHA?

NFPA 70E was originally developed at OSHA’s request to address electrical hazards in the workplace. OSHA bases its electrical safety requirements on the comprehensive information in NFPA 70E. OSHA considers NFPA 70E to be an effective how-to manual for OSHA regulation compliance.

How does NFPA 70E complement OSHA regulations?

OSHA requires the use of protective equipment when working where potential electrical hazards exist, although the agency does not specify how to select personal protective equipment. OSHA requires the employer to assess workplace hazards and the need for personal protective equipment. This assessment must be completed by a competent person. (See OSHA 1910.132 standards for this requirement)

In lieu of detailed OSHA regulations, OSHA recognizes, and in some cases refers to, industry consensus standards such as NFPA 70E as a tool for assisting with regulatory compliance. NFPA 70E provides practical solutions to satisfy the requirements of OSHA subpart S for general industry and subpart K for construction. It identifies the hazards and describes measures that can be taken to prevent electrical injuries.

Can you avoid OSHA citations by complying with NFPA 70E?

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, otherwise known as the general duty clause, requires an employer to furnish “employment and a place of employment which are free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees.” The clause enables OSHA to issue citations when unsafe conditions are identified for which a regulation does not exist. Industry consensus standards such as NFPA 70E may serve as evidence that a hazard is recognized and that there is a feasible means of correcting the hazard.

Do I have to train my employees in OSHA electrical standards and 70 E?

The answer is YES.

What is NFPA 70E Training?

FPA stands for the National Fire Protection Association. It is the authority on fire, electrical and building safety. The designation “70E” labels the latest book edition of training from the NFPA. This edition teaches modern-day electrical safety in the workplace. It warns workers of potential electrical hazards and helps them understand the codes and laws of working with and around electricity.

NFPA 70E is the standard used by the OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) detailing the “how tos” behind compliance with OSHA 1910 Subpart S and OSHA 1926 Subpart K.

As an employer, using NFPA 70E training, or arc flash training, will educate your employees on potential electrical hazards while helping increase safety on the job. The appropriate training can help save lives by teaching workers how to deal with and/or avoid shock, arc flash, arc blast and electrocution. These four hazards are responsible for hundreds of worker deaths and thousands of injuries per year in the United States alone.

When it comes to electricity, ignorance can injure or kill. The more you and fellow employees know, the safer your workplace will be. Also, keep in mind that some types of electrical work require various levels of training according to the law, and you must abide by OSHA standards.

On-Site Training

If your company employs quite a few workers and managers that need to take NFPA 70E training, you can hire experts like Podojil & Associates, Inc. The classes usually have an introduction to NFPA 70E, and the agenda typically includes increasing arc flash awareness and learning about NFPA 70E standards as well as OSHA 1910 Subpart S regulations. They’ll be trained in PPE selection maintenance, safe work practices, labelling for equipment and the dangers of transients. Meter safety, lockout/tagout and other electrical safety principles are taught. Classes also include safety videos and several tests for students.

Providing NFPA 70E training can protect lives by decreasing the risk of electrical injuries on the job. Use online resources to learn more about arc flash training, and give the gift of electrical safety to your employees and to yourself!

Stay safe. If you have questions on safety or the regulations, please email me at renama@podojilconsulting.com

Written by Ray Enama, a senior consultant for Podojil & Associates, Inc. Mr. Enama has more than 40 years experience in high and low voltage electrical systems. Mr. Enama also teaches part time for the OSHA training Institutes.