In 2023, NFPA 70B shifted its electrical and reliability rules from being a “recommended practice” to an enforceable standard, and that has big implications for facility owners, operators, and maintenance teams.
What exactly is NFPA 70B?
NFPA 70B is the Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance, developed by the National Fire Protection Association. For years, it served as a guideline for how facilities should care for electrical equipment, recommending best practices to improve safety and reliability.
Its purpose is simple, but critical: to help organizations implement an Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP) that reduces risks such as shock, arc flash, fire, and unplanned downtime.
Until recently, following NFPA 70B was voluntary. Now, it’s a standard, meaning organizations are expected to comply.
Why the Change Matters
According to NFPA, unmaintained electrical equipment is one of the biggest contributors to failures, fires, and unexpected outages. That’s why the update to NFPA 70B in 2023 makes compliance mandatory.
Here’s what that means for businesses:
- Maintenance programs are no longer optional. Facilities are expected to implement structured, documented electrical maintenance programs.
- Compliance is mandatory. Inspections, testing, and maintenance procedures outlined in NFPA 70B must now be followed to meet regulatory and insurance requirements.
- Risk management is central. The standard places greater emphasis on preventing failures, reducing hazards, and extending equipment life through proactive maintenance.
In short, businesses can no longer treat electrical maintenance as “nice to have.” It is now a required component of compliance and safety.
The Role of Thermal Imaging IR Scans
One of the most effective tools for identifying potential hazards is thermal imaging (IR scanning). These scans detect abnormal heat signatures in electrical components, which can indicate loose connections, overloaded circuits, or failing equipment, all of which pose serious safety risks.
IR scans are a critical part of preventive maintenance and are specifically recommended in NFPA 70B as part of routine inspections. They help:
- Identify hidden issues before they become failures
- Reduce the risk of fire and equipment damage
- Support compliance with NFPA 70B standards
The Importance of Breaker Maintenance
Circuit breakers are the first line of defense in your electrical system. Without proper maintenance, they can fail to operate, putting both equipment and personnel at risk.
Regular breaker maintenance includes:
- Cleaning and inspecting contacts for wear or corrosion
- Testing trip units and settings
- Lubricating moving parts
- Performing insulation resistance and timing tests
Neglecting breaker maintenance can lead to nuisance trips, failure to clear faults, or catastrophic damage, which is what NFPA 70B aims to prevent.
How We Can Help
At Wescom, we understand that the shift from recommendation to requirement can feel overwhelming. That’s why we partner with facilities to make compliance achievable and sustainable.
We can assist by:
- Building and implementing a compliant Electrical Maintenance Program tailored to each facility
- Performing breaker testing, inspection, and servicing to ensure protection systems are reliable
- Conducting full-system inspections, testing, and documentation in line with NFPA 70B requirements
- Train teams on proper maintenance practices and safety protocols
- Delivering turnkey electrical services that keep operations efficient, safe, and compliant
Ready To Get Started?
The shift from recommendation to standard is a big one, but you do not have to tackle it alone. Wescom is here to help ensure your electrical systems are safe, compliant, and reliable.
Safety Moment
The Importance of Reporting Workplace Injuries and Illness
Reporting all injuries and illnesses, big or small, is key to a safer, healthier workplace. Here’s why it matters:
- Early Action Prevents Bigger Problems: Small issues like strains or cuts can worsen if ignored. Reporting helps catch and fix problems early.
- Stay Compliant with Regulations: OSHA requires accurate records. Reporting protects your organization from legal and financial penalties.
- Improve Safety Through Data: Tracking incidents reveals patterns, like frequent strains, that can guide better training and equipment upgrades.
- Support Employee Well-Being: When reports are taken seriously, employees feel valued and are more likely to engage in safety programs.
- Protect Financial Resources: Injuries are costly. Proper documentation supports insurance claims and helps manage expenses.
- Build a Culture of Safety: Encourage open, blame-free reporting. Clear procedures and follow-through show that safety is a shared priority.
Bottom Line: Every report is a chance to improve safety, reduce risks, and ensure everyone goes home healthy.
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