May 2004 Quincy, MA ---- The new edition of NFPA 70E: Electrical Safety in the Workplace, 2004 Edition is now available from the National Fire Protection Association. The 2004 edition was issued by the NFPA Standards Council on January 14, 2004, with an effective date of February 11, 2004, and supercedes all previous editions. The 2004 edition of NFPA was approved as an American National Standard on February 11, 2004.

Now in its sixth edition, the 2004 edition of NFPA 70E reflects several significant changes to the document. The major changes emphasize safe work practices. Clarity and usability of the document were also enhanced. The name of the Standard was also changed to NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. The entire document has been reformatted; previously exisitng Parts were renamed as Chapters and were reorganized with the safety-related work practices relocated to the front of the document to highlight the empahsis on safe work practices.

The Chapter on safety-related work practices also was reorganized to emphasize working on live parts as the last alternative work practice. An energized electrical work permit and related requirments were incorporated into the document. Several definitions were modified or added to enhance usability of the document, and Chapter 4 was updated to correlate with the 2002 National Electic Code.

Other changes and updates in the 2004 NFPA 70E include the following:

• New and revised definitions clarify electrical safety issues such as arc rating, incident energy, and restricted approach boundary.
• New language concerning multi-employer relationships requires all contractors on a project to be aware of hazards, PPE, safe work practices, and emergency evacuation procedures.
• New energized electrical work permit requirements ensure people performing this type of work are properly trained and equipped.
• Updated PPE requirements reflect the latest technology.

To purchase a copy of NFPA 70E, call NFPA toll-free at 1-800-344-3555 or at 1-617-770-3000 if outside the U.S., M-F 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM E.T or visit their web site.