The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has officially upgraded NFPA 70B from a recommended practice to a fully enforceable standard, emphasizing the necessity of systematic electrical equipment maintenance. This shift impacts commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities, requiring the implementation of Electrical Maintenance Programs (EMP) to enhance safety, compliance, and operational reliability.
As a leader in electrical safety and maintenance, Transworld Electric Inc. helps businesses in Charleston, SC, and beyond meet NFPA 70B standards by developing customized maintenance solutions to prevent electrical failures, enhance safety, and ensure long-term system reliability.
Key Requirements of NFPA 70B
1. Adherence to Manufacturer Guidelines
NFPA 70B requires that electrical equipment be maintained according to manufacturer instructions and industry codes. While NFPA 70B provides additional guidance, it does not override manufacturer recommendations but instead enhances safety through structured maintenance practices.
2. Implementation of an Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP)
A documented EMP is now mandatory for all facility owners. This program must be designed to identify, assess, and mitigate electrical hazards while ensuring equipment longevity and compliance with safety regulations.
3. Designation of Qualified Personnel
Facilities must appoint an EMP Coordinator responsible for overseeing maintenance programs. Additionally, all personnel involved in electrical maintenance must be properly trained and qualified to handle electrical systems safely and effectively.
4. Comprehensive Maintenance Procedures
A well-structured EMP must include:
- Preventive Maintenance Strategies – Regular inspections, testing, and servicing of electrical components to prevent failures.
- Predictive Maintenance Practices – Utilizing tools like infrared thermography, power quality analysis, and insulation resistance testing to detect potential issues before they cause equipment failure.
- Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification – Evaluating electrical risks, including arc flash hazards, and implementing necessary protective measures.
- Detailed Maintenance Schedules – Establishing timelines for inspecting, testing, and servicing electrical systems, including switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers, panels, and electrical distribution systems.
- Record Keeping and Documentation – Maintaining thorough records of all maintenance activities, test results, and corrective actions taken to demonstrate compliance.
- Emergency and Failure Response Plans – Ensuring that procedures are in place to address unexpected failures or faults, minimizing downtime and ensuring business continuity.
Why NFPA 70B Compliance Matters
A properly implemented Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP) significantly reduces the likelihood of:
- Electrical Fires – Poorly maintained electrical systems are a leading cause of commercial fires (Source: NFPA).
- Unplanned Downtime – Unexpected failures can result in costly operational disruptions.
- Equipment Damage – Lack of maintenance accelerates wear and tear, leading to premature equipment failure.
- Electrical Hazards and Safety Risks – Arc flash incidents, shock hazards, and other risks can be mitigated through proactive maintenance.
Facilities that fail to comply with NFPA 70B risk legal consequences, OSHA violations, and potential liability in the event of an electrical accident.
How Transworld Electric Inc. Can Help
At Transworld Electric Inc., we specialize in:
- Comprehensive Electrical Maintenance Programs (EMP) Development
- NFPA 70B Compliance Audits and Assessments
- Infrared Thermographic Inspections to detect hidden electrical issues
- Power Quality Analysis to optimize system efficiency
- Preventive and Predictive Maintenance Services to prevent costly failures
Our team of qualified, licensed electricians ensures your facility remains safe, compliant, and energy-efficient.
Contact us today to discuss how we can customize an Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP) for your business.
Transworld Electric Inc. is proud to be a Best In Class Electrical Service Company under BCES Global
Sources
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70B: Electrical Equipment Maintenance Standard (www.nfpa.org)
- Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI): NFPA 70B Requirements (www.esfi.org)
