Page 45 - OHS, June 2024

Training & Retraining:
■ All workers must be retrained on the updated 2024 NFPA 70E.
■ New workers must receive the full 2024 NFPA 70E training.
■ Training can be classroom, on-site, or a combination of both.
■ Aftfter training, employers must assess worker competency to
apply the knowledge correctly.
Primarily, the updates prioritize enhanced safety by incorporat-
ing the latest research and insights on minimizing electrical haz- ards in the workplace.
Implications for Workplace Safety
The 2024 update of NFPA 70E, the standard for electrical safety in the workplace, features important changes to key terms. These revisions make the standard easier to understand and apply cor- rectly, ultimately improving workplace safety.891011
■ “Electric Shock” Emphasis: The term “electric shock” now consistently comes before “shock.” This makes it clear when the standard refers to the dangerous effects of electrical current on the body. However, in specific references to “hearing protection boundary” and “lung protection boundary,” “shock” means a shock wave (like from an explosion), not an electrical shock. This signifi- cant terminological clarification prevents ambiguity.
■ Ambiguous Terms such as Flexible “Protectors”: Terms that have been replaced, updated or superseded. For example, The term “leather” has been removed from the description of “protec-
Employers must have an established, documented, and implemented plan for achieving an Electrically Safe Work Condition (ESWC).
tors” (gloves and mittens worn over rubber-insulating gloves). This change allows for newer, potentially more effective materials, keep- ing safety gear in line with technological advancements.
■ Article Scopes: Each article now includes a concise scope statement at the beginning. This gives a clear overview of the ar- ticle’s content, making it easier for readers to find the necessary safety information. For example, Article 110 focuses on establish- ing an electrically safe work condition, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive safety policy that prioritizes hazard elimination.
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JUNE 2024 | Occupational Health & Safety 43