Electrical safety is a matter of responsibility, risk management, and compliance. For businesses that operate electrical systems, understanding NFPA 70E compliance is critical for protecting employees, minimizing downtime, and avoiding costly penalties.

At MV Power Solutions, we regularly work with commercial and industrial clients who hear “NFPA 70E” mentioned in audits, safety meetings, or insurance reviews. However, many aren’t always fully clear on what it means or why it matters. Here’s a breakdown of what NFPA 70E compliance involves and how it impacts your business.

What Is NFPA 70E?

NFPA 70E is a standard developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) focused on electrical safety in the workplace. Its primary goal is to help employers protect workers from electrical hazards such as arc flash, arc blast, electric shock, and electrocution. 

While OSHA enforces electrical safety regulations, NFPA 70E provides the detailed framework OSHA often relies on when assessing whether employers have met their duty to provide a safe workplace. In many cases, following NFPA 70E is considered the best way to demonstrate OSHA compliance.

Why NFPA 70E Compliance Matters for Businesses

Electrical incidents can be devastating. NFPA 70E compliance helps businesses reduce risk in several important ways.

Employee Safety

Arc flash events can cause severe burns, permanent injuries, or fatalities. NFPA 70E establishes practices and protective measures that significantly reduce the likelihood and severity of these incidents, keeping your employees safe while working on or near energized equipment.

Regulatory Compliance

Even though NFPA 70E itself is not a law, OSHA frequently references it during electrical inspections and after incidents. Failure to follow its guidelines can result in citations, fines, and increased scrutiny.

Reduced Liability and Insurance Risk

Insurance providers increasingly expect businesses to follow NFPA 70E standards. Noncompliance can lead to higher premiums or coverage issues following an incident.

Operational Continuity

Electrical accidents often lead to equipment damage, shutdowns, and production delays. A compliant electrical safety program helps prevent unexpected downtime and costly repairs.

Key Components of NFPA 70E Compliance

NFPA 70E compliance isn’t a single task—it’s a comprehensive safety approach. Some of the most important elements include:

Arc Flash Risk Assessments

A formal arc flash hazard analysis identifies potential arc flash risks, determines incident energy levels, and establishes safe working distances. This information is essential for labeling equipment correctly and selecting appropriate safety controls.

Arc Flash Labeling

Electrical equipment must be clearly labeled with information such as:

• Nominal system voltage
• Arc flash boundary
• Required PPE level
• Incident energy values

These labels give workers instant, life-saving information before performing electrical tasks.

Safe Work Practices

NFPA 70E outlines when equipment should be de-energized, how lockout/tagout procedures should be performed, and what steps must be taken if energized work is absolutely necessary.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The standard defines appropriate PPE requirements based on hazard levels, including flame-resistant clothing, gloves, face shields, and insulating tools.

Employee Training

Employees who work on or near electrical systems must be trained to recognize hazards, understand labels, select proper PPE, and follow safe work procedures.

Who Needs NFPA 70E Compliance?

NFPA 70E applies to a wide range of businesses, including:

• Manufacturing facilities
• Commercial buildings
• Healthcare facilities
• Warehouses and distribution centers
• Data centers
• Industrial plants
• Educational and government facilities

Any business with electrical panels, switchgear, transformers, or energized equipment should take NFPA 70E compliance seriously.

Common Misconceptions About NFPA 70E

One common misconception is that NFPA 70E only applies to electricians. In reality, any employee who may interact with or work near electrical equipment falls under its scope.

Another misconception is that compliance is too complex or disruptive. With the right electrical contractor and safety plan, NFPA 70E compliance can be implemented efficiently and integrated into existing operations.

How MV Power Solutions Helps Businesses Stay Compliant

At MV Power Solutions, we help businesses navigate NFPA 70E compliance with confidence. Our team understands the technical requirements, the operational realities, and the importance of minimizing disruption to your facility.

We support clients with electrical safety evaluations, arc flash studies and labeling, electrical system upgrades and repairs, and ongoing maintenance and compliance support. Our goal is to keep your people safe, your systems reliable, and your business compliant without unnecessary complexity.

Compliance Is an Investment in Safety and Stability

NFPA 70E compliance protects lives and safeguards your business by reducing electrical safety risks, improving confidence among employees, and strengthening your operational resilience. If you’re unsure about your current compliance status or need expert guidance, MV Power Solutions is here to help you take the next step safely and efficiently. Give us a call today at 720-287-2305 or fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch to discuss your project!