Electrical systems are relevant to all businesses; however, they are also dangerous if they are not well managed. To mitigate these risks, adherence to the NFPA standards for electrical equipment maintenance is mandatory. This guide not only provides protection against possible accidents during operation but also guarantees the proper functioning of all equipment.
Adhering to standards can at times appear quite challenging and overwhelming. For any organization to improve its electrical safety, it requires clear understanding and systematic planning. This article provides a step by step guide that your organization can use to begin implementing NFPA (70B) standards.
Understanding NFPA 70B
The best practice guideline for electrical equipment management is contained in the NFPA 70B document. With reference to these specifications, electrical failures are averted and organizational systems run at optimum efficiency. This standard and its requirements cover activities that are performed daily in an effort to prevent existing dangers from escalating and turning into major problems.
Identifying Your Current Situation
The first action step in following the recommendations in NFPA 70B is to assess the current state of electrical maintenance. Collect records and perform a visual check of equipment to determine how effectively the current program adheres to NFPA 70B guidelines. This assessment will identify areas that require enhancement, and where you, as the change leader, need to focus your efforts.
Planning and Documentation
Once you have identified where change is required, the second phase is to create an implementation strategy. This plan should detail the steps that need to be taken in order to bring your practices in line with NFPA 70B guidelines. These steps should be documented; it helps to avoid deviation and ensure adequate compliance during implementation. Some of the things you should include in your plan are the timeline schedules for conducting maintenance, tests and evaluations.
Training and Competency
To ensure that NFPA 70B standards are put into practice, your staff should be well trained in the best practices. Make sure that every person who is involved in electrical maintenance is aware of the standards set and their proper implementation. Schedule frequent training in this area as there are changes in standards from time to time.
Implementation and Management
Next, hop onto the new maintenance procedures as outlined in the plan that you have developed. There is, however, a need to pay close attention to these new practices when they are first introduced. It will allow you to see if there are other aspects that require additional fine-tuning. From your team, you can also gather feedback on how the process of maintenance could be further improved.
Conclusion
It is advisable to embrace NFPA 70B standards as a way of preventing electrical related dangers in your organization. Even though the implementation process involves planning and assessment, training and monitoring, the advantages of maintaining electrical systems according to these standards are inestimable. Some of the benefits include increased safety, better performance of the equipment, and meeting the legal requirements.
Start now and make your organization safe and compliant for tomorrow.
