Arc Flash NFPA 70E Program

The Arc Flash NFPA 70E Safety Program establishes requirements for protecting employees from arc flash, arc blast, electric shock, and other electrical hazards when working on or near energized electrical equipment. The program incorporates NFPA 70E electrical safety practices and addresses qualified persons, electrical hazard and risk assessments, approach boundaries, arc flash protection boundaries, job planning, job briefings, energized electrical work, and required permits. Before employees enter applicable electrical approach boundaries, hazards must be evaluated and appropriate safe work practices and protective measures established.

The program addresses arc flash risk assessments, electrical PPE, arc-rated clothing, voltage-rated gloves, approach distances, energized electrical work permits, test instruments, insulated tools, equipment condition, and restricted work areas. Qualified employees receive training appropriate to their electrical responsibilities and must understand electrical hazards, safe approach distances, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures. Host and contract employers also have responsibilities for communicating known electrical hazards, coordinating safe work practices, and ensuring employees are properly trained and qualified. The program helps establish an electrical safety program consistent with NFPA 70E for controlling arc flash and shock exposures and preventing serious electrical injuries.