The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) created NFPA 70E, a standard for Electrical Safety in the workplace. This standard is designed to protect workers around any device capable of generating arc flash by requiring arc flash protective clothing for their corresponding Hazard/Risk Category. The information below is a high level overview.
NFPA 70E Requirements:
The NFPA published the latest edition of the NFPA 70E standard in 2009. It requires employees to wear flame resistant protective clothing that meets the requirements of ASTM F1506 wherever there is possible exposure to arc flash. It also requires employers to perform a flash hazard analysis to determine the flash protection boundary distance. For additional requirements please review the NFPA70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace 2009 Edition.
Why should I comply with NFPA 70E?
The NFPA 70E is not only recognized by OSHA but can save your life! Numerous arc flash burn injuries and deaths are caused each year by arc-flash explosions. Wearing proper arc flash protection can minmize the likelihood of inuiry and fatality. OSHA has confirmed that garments which meet the requirements of ASTM F1506 are in compliance with OSHA 29 CR 1910.269 Electrical Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution, with regard to garments not contributing to burn severity.