The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released new guidance on personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers exposed to electrical arc hazards, marking its first update on the issue in almost two decades.
The updated guidelines aim to ensure that arc-flash protective clothing and equipment are provided to and worn by anyone working on or near energized electrical equipment. OSHA reports that over 600,000 workers previously lacked proper PPE to prevent injuries from deadly arc-flash hazards, despite existing industry standards like the National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
“This new guidance is a game-changer and could not have come at a more appropriate time,” said Scott Margolin, chairman of the Partnership for Electrical Safety (PES).
Formed in 2020, the PES advocates for proper PPE and arc-rated and flame-resistant clothing for workers conducting tasks on or near energized equipment. The organisation represents leading companies in the PPE and arc-rated clothing industries that provide life-saving gear to protect workers from electrical hazards.
The OSHA guidance consists of four parts: a detailed document for employers and three one-page documents for workers. It addresses two leading causes of arc-flash injuries and fatalities in the United States: misclassifying work as deenergized without proper lockout/tagout procedures, and performing energized work at low voltages without appropriate PPE due to the misconception that low voltage isn’t hazardous.
“OSHA’s guidance makes it clear that low voltage, including 120/208 volts, can sustain arc flashes, produce molten metal, ignite flammable clothing, and cause severe or fatal injury,” Margolin said.
As the U.S. invests in large-scale electrification projects like electric vehicle and direct current chargers, employers are hiring workers who may have limited training and experience with arc-flash hazards. The updated OSHA guidance aims to better prepare these employers and their employees to improve workplace safety and prevent avoidable injuries.
U.S. Representative Donald Norcross said, “As an electrician, I know the very real dangers these men and women face every day, and I’m glad OSHA is taking steps to ensure anyone working on or near energized equipment is protected from life-threatening arc-hazard events.”
“We’re already in the process of electrifying America. But we shouldn’t sacrifice our workers’ safety as we do it,” said U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper. “Electric arc hazards are dangerous. Workers need proper training and protective equipment to stay safe. These new guidelines will save lives and prevent unnecessary injuries as we unlock our clean energy future.”
The PES is collaborating with OSHA, congressional leaders, and industry partners to disseminate this information and provide educational opportunities for workers.
For more information, see https://www.osha.gov/electrical/flash-hazards