Frequently Asked Questions
What are Facility Power Solution's Top Service Offerings?
We offer a wide range of low voltage and medium voltage preventative maintenance and testing services. Below lists our top services to date:
Arc Flash Analysis
Infrared (IR) Analysis
Circuit Breaker Testing
NFPA 70E Compliance Consulting
Arc Flash Safety Training
Switchgear Maintenance
Planned Shutdown Support
MV Terminations & Testing
Power Quality Metering
Commissioning Support
Ground Testing
*Not seeing what you were looking for? Be sure to complete the contact page at the bottom of the webpage to get in touch and discuss your project needs.
Do you offer site evaluations?
Yes, we offer a free site evaluation and are able to collect equipment inventory onsite when applicable. Evaluations are followed by a breif consulation around inventory, detailing scope of work and understanding timelines to be met. We do not believe in a "one size fits all" model and will tailor services to your facility and application requirements.
What is NFPA 70E?
NFPA 70E is a standard that provides guidelines for electrical safety in the workplace. It covers the requirements for safe work practices to protect workers from electrical hazards.
How does NFPA 70E relate to OSHA?
While OSHA provides the legal requirements for workplace safety, including electrical safety, NFPA 70E is considered a consensus standard that outlines best practices for electrical safety. OSHA often refers to NFPA 70E as a recognized means of achieving compliance with its standards.
What is an arc flash analysis, and why is it important?
An arc flash analysis is an assessment performed to determine the potential exposure to arc flash energy and to suggest appropriate safety measures. It's important because it helps prevent injuries by ensuring workers are properly protected against the risks of arc flash.
What are the responsibilities of employers under NFPA 70E?
Employers are responsible for implementing and documenting an electrical safety program, conducting risk assessments, providing appropriate PPE, and ensuring that employees receive adequate training.
How often should electrical equipment be inspected or maintained?
NFPA 70E outlines specific maintenance and inspection intervals for electrical equipment, which can vary based on the type of equipment and its usage. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent equipment failures and ensure safety.
What is the difference between qualified and unqualified personnel?
Qualified personnel are those who have received training to recognize and avoid electrical hazards. Unqualified personnel lack this training and should not perform tasks that expose them to electrical hazards.
What steps can a facility manager or owner take to become electrically compliant with NFPA 70E and OSHA?
Creating a checklist for electrical compliance specifically tailored to NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace) and OSHA regulations involves ensuring a wide range of safety measures and protocols are in place and followed. We've created this checklist to help a facility manager establish a safer working environment concerning electrical operations. Note that this checklist is a general guide and may need adjustments based on specific workplace requirements, operations, and the latest versions of NFPA 70E and OSHA standards. Always consult with your Facility Power Solutions representative to stay up-to-date on these standards.
General Compliance
Safety Program - Establish and maintain a written electrical safety program, tailored to the facility's needs and compliant with NFPA 70E and OSHA standards.
Risk Assessment - Conduct regular electrical risk assessments to identify hazards, determine risk levels, and implement appropriate control measures.
Training - Provide comprehensive safety training for all employees involved in electrical work, emphasizing the risks and proper safety procedures as per NFPA 70E and OSHA requirements.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) -Ensure appropriate PPE is available and used by workers as required for the tasks being performed, in compliance with NFPA 70E Table 130.7(C)(15)(A)(b) for the selection of PPE.
Electrical Work Practices
Work Permits - Implement an electrical safety work permit system for any work involving electrical hazards.
Lockout/Tagout Procedure - Ensure lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures are in place and followed for de-energizing electrical equipment during maintenance or repair.
Arc Flash Analysis - Perform an arc flash risk assessment to determine the arc flash boundary and necessary PPE. Label electrical panels and equipment with arc flash warning labels.
Equipment Maintenance - Schedule and conduct regular maintenance on electrical equipment to ensure it is in safe working condition and compliant with NFPA 70E and OSHA standards.
Emergency Response and First Aid
Emergency Response Plan - Have an emergency response plan in place for electrical accidents, including clear procedures for responding to electrical fires or shock incidents.
First Aid and CPR Training - Ensure that a sufficient number of staff are trained in first aid and CPR, especially those who are at a higher risk of electrical exposure.
Documentation and Record Keeping
Documentation of Safety Procedures - Keep detailed records of all electrical safety procedures, training sessions, maintenance activities, and inspections.
Incident Reporting - Establish a system for reporting and investigating electrical accidents or near-misses to prevent future incidents.
Equipment and Installation
Installation Compliance - Verify that all electrical installations are performed in accordance with NFPA 70E and the National Electrical Code (NEC), focusing on safety and compliance.
Inspection and Testing - Regularly inspect and test electrical equipment and protective devices to ensure they are operational and effective.
Continuous Improvement
Regular Reviews - Periodically review and update the electrical safety program to reflect changes in standards, technology, and workplace conditions.
Feedback Mechanism - Implement a system for employees to report electrical safety concerns or suggestions for improvement.
*This checklist is a starting point for ensuring electrical compliance with NFPA 70E and OSHA standards. It's essential to stay updated with the latest standards and to consult with your Facility Power Solutions representative or qualified electrical safety professional to tailor the compliance efforts to your specific facility needs.
Get in Touch
Reach out to us using the contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and assisting you with your electrical maintenance and testing needs.