Auditing a mission-critical facility’s NFPA 70E performance ensures compliance with electrical safety standards and protects personnel from electrical hazards. Here’s a step-by-step approach to perform a thorough audit:

1. Define the Scope of the Audit

Clearly identify what aspects of NFPA 70E compliance will be evaluated, such as:

• Electrical Safety Program
• Training of personnel
• Maintenance of electrical equipment
• Use of proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
• Documentation and incident reporting

2. Review Electrical Safety Program (ESP)

• Ensure the facility has a written Electrical Safety Program that aligns with NFPA 70E requirements.
• Verify that the ESP includes procedures for:
  • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
  • Energized work permits
  • Arc flash risk assessments
  • Electrical hazard incident reporting

3. Perform Training and Awareness Assessment

• Verify Training Records: Ensure all qualified and unqualified workers receive training on NFPA 70E standards.
• Skills Testing: Confirm that workers understand arc flash boundaries, shock protection, and safe work practices.
• Refresher Courses: Review the frequency of retraining (typically every 3 years or upon significant job changes).

4. Audit PPE Compliance

• Ensure workers are equipped with proper arc-rated PPE based on the calculated incident energy levels for tasks.
• Evaluate:
  • PPE inspection, testing, and maintenance logs
  • Availability and condition of PPE, including gloves, face shields, and arc-rated clothing
  • Worker adherence to wearing appropriate PPE during tasks

5. Review Arc Flash and Shock Hazard Analysis

• Verify that the facility has conducted Arc Flash Risk Assessments as required by NFPA 70E.
• Review labels on equipment to ensure they display accurate:
  • Arc flash boundary distances
  • Incident energy levels
  • Required PPE categories
• Confirm updates are performed within the recommended 5-year cycle or when system changes occur.

6. Inspect Electrical Equipment Maintenance Records

• Audit the maintenance schedules for electrical systems, ensuring they follow NFPA 70E and NFPA 70B guidelines.
• Evaluate records of:
  • Circuit breakers, switchgear, and relays maintenance
  • Infrared thermography inspections
  • Ground fault protection systems
  • Test results for insulation resistance

7. Evaluate Energized Work Procedures

• Confirm proper use of Energized Electrical Work Permits (EEWP).
• Review procedures for:
  • Justification for energized work (e.g., infeasibility to de-energize)
  • Risk assessments performed before work
  • Authorization and approval processes

8. Examine Incident and Near-Miss Reporting

• Review records of electrical safety incidents and near misses.
• Verify root cause analyses were performed and corrective actions were implemented.

9. Conduct Field Observations

• Perform spot checks during work activities to assess worker adherence to NFPA 70E standards.
• Look for compliance with:
  • Establishing shock and arc flash boundaries
  • Proper use of tools and PPE
  • LOTO procedures

10. Audit Documentation and Recordkeeping

• Ensure that all safety assessments, training records, PPE inspections, and incident reports are properly documented and stored.
• Verify accessibility for regulatory audits or internal reviews.

11. Report Findings and Recommend Improvements

• Generate a detailed report summarizing:

  • Areas of non-compliance or gaps
  • Observations from field audits
  • Recommendations for corrective actions
  • A timeline for implementation

• Rank findings by risk level to prioritize actions.

12. Continuous Improvement and Follow-Up

• Establish a regular schedule for NFPA 70E performance audits (e.g., annually).
• Monitor the completion of corrective actions and verify improvements over time.

Tools to Assist the Audit

• Software: Use audit tools or CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) to track electrical maintenance schedules and PPE inspections.
• Compliance Checklists: Develop or use NFPA 70E checklists for consistency in audits.
• Field Testing Tools: Utilize thermal imaging and electrical test equipment to validate system performance.

By following this structured approach, a mission-critical facility can effectively audit its NFPA 70E performance and ensure worker safety, regulatory compliance, and operational continuity.