Does your facility meet OSHA and NFPA standards for Qualified Electrical Workers?

Written by Staff Writer

Did you know that OSHA and NFPA require documented in-person or classroom training for electrical workers? We find that many of our customers are unaware of these requirements; understanding them can make your facility safer and reduce employer liability.

OSHA 1910.399 specifically defines a “qualified person” as “One who has received training in and has demonstrated skills and knowledge in the construction and operation of electric equipment and installations and the hazards involved.” The NFPA 70E® 2012 “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace®” definition is almost identical.

Organizations that have people working on or around electrically energized equipment must comply with these safety standards by establishing a Qualified Electrical Worker Program at their facility.

These regulations also require that the training be documentable classroom or on-the-job training. TPC Training provides training certificates of completion, and ATMT® Testing and Certification. We keep permanent records on file for all students who have received training through TPC Training and who have elected to take any type of test or certification exam.

Being a Qualified Electrical Worker means being qualified to operate specific equipment in specific conditions; therefore there is no general certification for the standard. Facilities must develop their own documented Qualified Electrical Worker training program and ensure that workers meet the criteria.

TPC Training recommends adoption of the electrical troubleshooting training path for electrically related work as a solid foundation for meeting OSHA and NFPA 70E® requirements.