NFPA 70E: Arc Flash

Confused about National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 70E, the arc flash

protection standard? NFPA 70E establishes specific guidelines for working on

high-voltage-energized systems and equipment. According to these standards,

high voltage is anything over 50 volts. OSHA standards reference compliance

with NFPA 70E for working on energized systems and equipment. The following

are some key components to NFPA 70E:

Key factors when working with energized equipment:

De-energize, de-energize, de-energize.

Only qualified and authorized personnel are allowed to work on

energized systems or equipment; all other personnel should be clear of

the work area.

Perform arc flash calculations.

Maintain proper clearance distances.

Set up access boundaries.

Ensure that all personal protective equipment (PPE) is available and

inspect for damage of defective equipment before beginning work.

Use only properly rated tools and PPE when performing the work.

De-energize, de-energize, de-energize.

Remember: Work electrical circuits and equipment de-energized. If the situation

requires you to work the system hot, be sure to follow the NFPA 70E guidelines.

For more information, visit www.osha.gov.