NFPA 70E Training Requirments

Arc Flash Required Training

Any employee who may come into contact with an electrical hazard is required to receive electrical safety training by OSHA 1910 Subpart S. Despite the fact that OSHA does not mandate NFPA 70E training, it is regarded as the industry standard for worker safety and compliance.

At least once every three years, employees must be retrained in safe work practices and any changes to the NFPA 70E standard. Training is also required when new equipment is added, when job duties change, or when inspections are failed.

People With And Without Qualifications

Arc Flash Training under NFPA 70E should include both “qualified persons” trained to work directly with electrical equipment and “unqualified persons,” such as management, mechanics, or janitorial staff who operate around an electrical hazard. It could also include external contractors or facility visitors.

At least once every three years, employees must be retrained on safe work practices and any changes to the NFPA 70E standard. Retraining is also necessary when discrepancies are discovered during annual performance audits, when new equipment is added, or when there is a temporary change in job duties.

Although OSHA will issue citations for inadequate employee training, this should not be the driving force behind the development of an electrical safety training program. NFPA 70E Training protects employees from injuries, fosters a positive work environment, and fosters a safety culture within the organization.

Contents of the Arc Flash Training Course

The course begins with a discussion of positive electrical safety culture, including why ignorance is dangerous, the evolution of the electrical worker, and the ever-present danger of electricity.

The classes also thoroughly cover shock hazards such as shock boundaries, shock protection, and the need for a shock hazard analysis; when insulated tools and equipment are required; the dynamics of arc flash and arc blast; meter safety; and more.

The 2-hour NFPA 70E Training course is an excellent introduction to the standard. Participants may consist of both qualified and unqualified individuals. The 4-hour NFPA 70E Training provides a more in-depth understanding of the NFPA 70E’s requirements and the steps required to maintain compliance with OSHA and NFPA 70E. There may be management, qualified, and unqualified participants. The Qualified Electrical Worker (QEW) training consists of the NFPA 70E 4-hour classroom training with a written exam and practical exams. Each participant will receive sufficient documentation to demonstrate their qualification.