Arc Flash, NFPA 70E, Electrical Safety Training Outline
January 29, 2023
Comparing the European Low Voltage Directive (LVD) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E for Electrical Safety in the Workplace
January 31, 2023
The usage of personal protection equipment is one of the most crucial parts of job site safety (PPE). While numerous varieties of PPE are available, such as safety glasses, hard helmets, and arc-rated protective garments, one frequently asked topic is why OSHA does not consider insulated equipment to constitute PPE. This topic will be discussed in further depth in this piece.
PPE is defined by OSHA standards as any equipment worn or employed by an employee to protect against one or more safety or health hazards. Safety glasses, hard helmets, and earplugs are examples of products meant to protect certain sections of the body from damage. Insulated tools, on the other hand, which are meant to guard against electrical risks, do not fall under this criteria
The explanation for this is simple: insulated tools are designed to protect the job rather than the worker. Insulated tools are intended to lessen the danger of electrical shock, electrocution, and other electrical risks like arc flash or arc blast when working with electrical systems. They are an important aspect of electrical safety and are required by OSHA standards to be employed anytime an electrical hazard exists.
Insulated tools, on the other hand, are not considered PPE since they are not meant to directly safeguard the worker. Instead, they are classified as electrical safety equipment. This distinction is significant since insulated tools do not give the same level of protection as typical PPE equipment like hard helmets or safety glasses.
It is also crucial to remember that electrically insulated tools do not replace the necessity for personal protective equipment (PPE) or Lock-Out / Tag-Out. While insulated equipment can lessen the likelihood of electrical dangers, workers must still wear adequate PPE to protect themselves from other possible hazards, such as falling debris or dangerous substances. This is especially critical while operating in hazardous areas with many sorts of risks.
To summarize, while insulated tools are an important aspect of electrical safety, OSHA does not consider them to be personal protective equipment. It is critical to grasp the difference between insulated tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) and to utilize both as part of a comprehensive safety program. Workers may stay safe on the job and limit their risk of harm by utilizing the proper tools and equipment and adhering to safe work practices.
NFPA 70E / ARC FLASH – Electrical Safety / Arc Flash Training (Onsite Instructor-Led)
