The Road To Understanding

The road to understanding is not always an easy one especially if that road leads to change. Generally speaking people are reluctant to change because often it pushes us out of our comfort zones. The attitude may be one of “we’ve always done it this way” or “it doesn’t apply to me”. Either one of these attitudes towards personal electrical safety often reveals a shortfall in philosophies. The outcomes of these philosophies can have catastrophic effects on people and equipment.

There are published documents that provide structure and guidance in carrying out those minimum electrical safety requirements and each start with a purpose and scope statement. The National Fire Protection Association has numerous electrical safety text references however, the one publication that we are going to focus on is the NFPA 70E. This standard text and its proper application in the work force have reduced the risks associated with working on electrical systems and has literally saved thousands of lives.

The NFPA 70E Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, provides requirements for employees who are or might be exposed to electrical hazards as they perform tasks including, but not limited to, installing, operating, maintaining, or inspecting electrical equipment. The requirements specified in the body of the standard are suitable for adoption and or implementation by any employer or agency charged with the responsibility of developing, implementing, and maintaining an electrical safety program.