On November 25, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released updated guidance on personal protective equipment (PPE) for employers and employees. This updated guidance emphasizes the need for appropriate arc flash protective clothing and equipment for those working on or near energized equipment. Prior to this update, more than 600,000 workers were at risk of severe injury or fatality due to a lack of suitable PPE, despite existing industry standards like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70E: Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
This is OSHA’s first significant update to arc flash guidance in nearly two decades. The update includes a detailed document for employers and three concise, worker-focused guides. Its primary goal is to address the two leading causes of arc flash incidents:
- Misidentifying equipment as de-energized: Workers often fail to meet the standard for de-energized work, neglecting the need for arc-rated PPE. OSHA clarifies that “de-energized” does not equate to achieving an electrically safe work condition, which requires lockout/tagout procedures, an energized work permit, and proper PPE.
- Underestimating hazards at low voltages: A dangerous misconception persists that low-voltage systems (e.g., 120/208 volts) are not hazardous. OSHA’s guidance stresses that low voltages can sustain arc flashes, ignite clothing, and cause severe or fatal injuries, reinforcing the need for PPE and work permits even at these voltages.
The update underscores that all energized work over 50 volts requires an energized work permit, and most tasks necessitate arc-rated PPE to protect against molten metal, ignition, and severe injuries.
Why Was This Update Necessary?
Despite the existence of PPE and safety standards, injuries and fatalities among electricians remain alarmingly high. Many workers continue to perform energized tasks without proper permits or PPE. Electrical workers are essential to maintaining infrastructure, but their safety is often overlooked in the rush to modernize America’s power grid.
With large-scale projects like electric vehicle and direct current (DC) charger installations increasing, this guidance also prepares employers and less experienced workers to navigate arc flash hazards safely, reducing preventable injuries.
Who Does the Guidance Affect?
The updated guidance applies to commercial, industrial, and residential electricians, as well as operators, maintenance workers, and other personnel working near exposed energized electrical parts. These new standards are in immediate effect and aim to enhance workplace safety across industries.
Where to Access the Updated Guidance:
The OSHA Arc Flash Safety Guidance can be found on OSHA’s official website: Occupational Safety and Health Administration
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