What it means
Where the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) covers how electrical systems are installed, NFPA 70E covers the people working on or near them. It addresses electrical safety programs, training, risk assessments for shock and arc flash hazards, establishing an electrically safe work condition, and the use of protective equipment.
A central idea is that the safest approach is to remove the hazard — putting equipment in an electrically safe condition before working on it — with protective measures used when work on or near energized equipment is justified. NFPA 70E is revised periodically, so employers should work to the current edition.
An example: before replacing a breaker in an energized panel, an electrical contractor’s crew follows its safety program: assessing the shock and arc flash risk, de-energizing and verifying where possible, and using the protective equipment the assessment calls for.
Why it matters
- Safety. It’s the reference for protecting workers from shock and arc flash.
- Maintenance work. NFPA 70B maintenance programs rely on work being carried out safely under NFPA 70E practices.