Electrical Safety Policy Update

The Electrical Safety Policy is being updated, and the changes will substantially affect electrical safety across campus

Departments that purchase electrical utilization equipment, maintain or repair department-owned equipment and/or use modified, custom-built or internationally sourced equipment will be affected.  

The planned changes will improve adherence to the latest editions of:

• NFPA 70E - Electrical Safety in the Workplace

• NFPA 70B - Electrical Equipment Maintenance

Additionally, the policy improvements will provide a framework for labs, research units and technical spaces to keep staff and students safe through equipment selection, approval of non-listed equipment, safe work practices and proper PPE use. 

 Key updates include:

• Equipment selection guidance: The policy provides greater detail on the importance of equipment selection as a safety measure, including the verification of safe design. It also provides updated information on equipment maintenance and how to determine who can perform equipment maintenance and repairs.  
• Approval process framework for modified, custom-built and international equipment: This policy outlines the approval process for labs, research units and technical spaces when they must modify or custom-build department-owned equipment.  
• Expanded roles and responsibilities: The policy update introduces two new roles: the Responsible Qualified Person (QP) and the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Both play critical roles in electrical safety in higher education. 

Responsible Qualified Person (QP)

• Has detailed knowledge of exposure to electrical hazards, the appropriate control methods for reducing the associated risks and the implementation of those methods.
• Responsible for ensuring the safe design of modified and custom-built equipment.
• Responsible for all work activities and safety procedures related to non-listed, modified, custom-built and international equipment.

The Electrical Safety Authority (ESA)

A staff member or committee designated by the department, lab, technical area or research unit to ensure the use of appropriate electrical safety-related work practices and controls for exposures associated with department-owned equipment that has been modified or custom-built. This role:

• Ensures that department-owned, non-listed equipment (e.g., modified, custom-made or international) undergoes a field evaluation before use. 
• Coordinates with the Authority Having Jurisdiction when the evaluation of non-Listed Equipment exceeds the Responsible QP’s and/or the ESA’s capabilities, or when the equipment is hardwired into the building electrical system and requires final approval.

EH&S will provide more information about the policy changes and guidance on the requirements before rolling out the policy update. Please look for additional resources and educational opportunities that will be available to help you prepare for the changes over the next year. 

Questions? 

Contact: [email protected].