• Posted: April 14, 2026
• Arc flash prevention strategies, Benefits of NFPA 70B, Electrical maintenance program, NFPA 70B maintenance requirements, OSHA electrical safety compliance

Facilities across Cook County are expected to meet high standards for safety, reliability, and accountability. With NFPA 70B now recognized as a mandatory standard, compliance is a critical investment in protecting people, infrastructure, and operations.

Safety: Protecting People and Preventing Incidents

One of the most immediate benefits of NFPA 70B compliance is the reduction of serious electrical risks. A formal Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP) helps identify and mitigate the conditions that lead to:

• Arc flash incidents
• Electrical fires
• Workplace injuries

“The main drive of NFPA 70B is to eliminate the risk of arc flash. It’s strongly based on safety training,” said Bill Cullen, Vice President at Sharlen Electric Company.

Performance: Fewer Failures and Less Downtime

When electrical systems are regularly maintained and properly documented, facilities operate more efficiently. A compliant EMP helps extend equipment life and ensures consistent system performance, resulting in:

• Fewer unplanned outages
• Better productivity
• More reliable infrastructure

Cost Control: Reducing Maintenance and Insurance Expenses

Preventive maintenance supports safety and also helps the bottom line. NFPA 70B compliance can:

• Reduce emergency repair and maintenance costs
• Minimize production losses
• Support eligibility for insurance discounts
  

“In the event something disrupts business, insurance firms will request maintenance records. That’s where NFPA 70B makes a difference,” said Sean Samson, CEO at Sean Samson Training.

Legal and Insurance Implications

Although OSHA doesn’t enforce NFPA 70B directly, it may cite the standard when issuing citations for unsafe conditions. Noncompliance can lead to:

• OSHA violations and fines
• Increased insurance premiums
• Legal liability after incidents or equipment failures
  

Many insurance providers now request proof of a compliant EMP as part of their risk assessment process.

Who Is Responsible for NFPA 70B Compliance?

The equipment owner is responsible for developing and maintaining a compliant EMP. That includes:

• Appointing an EMP coordinator
• Documenting all maintenance activity
• Hiring qualified professionals to conduct inspections and repairs
  

This is where Powering Chicago member contractors can make a difference. Our electrical contractors are trained in NFPA standards and can:

• Help assess your facility’s needs
• Develop a tailored EMP strategy
• Ensure proper documentation for insurance and regulatory compliance

NFPA 70B is changing how facilities approach electrical safety, reliability, and accountability, and compliance is now required. Download our “NFPA 70B Compliance: Why It Matters for Your Facility” Fact Sheet to better understand what this means for your operations, how to reduce risk, and how to work with experts who know the standard inside and out.

Explore the “Understanding NFPA 70B: Ensuring Electrical Safety and Reliability” eBook for a deeper look at the standard. When you’re ready to assess your electrical systems or plan maintenance, use the Find a Contractor Tool to connect with Powering Chicago member contractors.