Electrical Safety

NFPA 70E is a standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association that provides guidelines for electrical safety in the workplace. It helps protect workers from electrical safety hazards such as shock, arc flash, and arc blast. By following NFPA 70E standards, employers and employees can reduce the risk of injuries and ensure a safer working environment. 

NFPA 70E training, also sometimes referred to NFPA70E certification, is a program designed to educate workers about electrical safety standards and best practices in the workplace, as outlined in the NFPA 70E standard. It’s not a single certification, but rather a training course that covers topics like electrical hazards and safety measures like LOTO training. Click Safety offers NFPA 70e online training so workers can take the course at their own pace.

NFPA 70E training typically covers the following electrical safety topics:

• Understanding electrical hazards and risk assessment procedures.
• Implementing safe work practices and establishing electrically safe working conditions.
• Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Emergency response and incident reporting procedures.
• Maintenance and testing of electrical equipment.

LOTO stands for Lock-Out/Tag-Out. It is a safety procedure used to ensure that machines and equipment are properly shut off and not able to be started up again before the completion of maintenance or repair work. It involves using locks and tags to isolate energy sources and prevent hazardous energy from harming workers.  

OSHA's Lockout/Tagout Standard (29 CFR 1910.147) outlines the requirements for controlling hazardous energy and protecting employees.  

NFPA 70E and LOTO training should be conducted initially when an employee is assigned to a job involving electrical work and periodically thereafter. Refresher training is recommended at least every three years or whenever there is a change in job assignments, equipment, or processes that present a new hazard. Additionally, training should be provided whenever an employee demonstrates inadequate knowledge or skills related to electrical safety. 

Workplace electrical safety training should be completed by all employees who work on or near electrical equipment, including electricians, maintenance personnel, and supervisors. It is also beneficial for safety managers and any other personnel responsible for implementing and overseeing electrical safety programs in the workplace. Electrical safety training protects workers, ensures compliance, and promotes a safer and more productive work environment.

While both NFPA 70E and LOTO training are essential for electrical safety at work, NFPA 70E provides a broader framework for electrical safety, whereas LOTO training courses are specifically focused on controlling hazardous energy during equipment servicing and maintenance. Both types of training are crucial for ensuring the safety of workers who interact with electrical systems and machinery.