• Posted: November 25, 2024
• Chicago electrical safety compliance, Crain's Chicago Business, electrical safety, electrical safety expert, IBEW Local 134, NFPA 70 electrical standards for businesses, NFPA 70B, NFPA 70B maintenance guidelines, NFPA 70E workplace electrical safety, Powering Chicago expert discusses NFPA 70B

In a recent Crain’s Chicago Business Quick Take interview, Powering Chicago and IBEW Local 134 representative Matt Stolspart provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of electrical safety standards, particularly focusing on significant changes to NFPA 70B maintenance requirements.

As a member of IBEW Local 134’s Codes and Standards Committee and supervising electrician for Chicago and Orland Park, Stolspart highlighted the transition of NFPA 70B from recommended practices to mandatory standards—a shift that carries important implications for facility owners and maintenance professionals.

“Although NFPA 70B is a major change in the industry, help is available for those who may be struggling to understand NFPA 70B or how to be compliant,” Stolspart explained during his conversation with Crain’s Marina Cracchiolo.

Stolspart emphasized that Powering Chicago contractors are ready to assist organizations with consultations and solutions for creating compliant maintenance programs.

A key point of discussion was the critical role of proper maintenance in ensuring workplace safety. Stolspart stressed that without adequate maintenance, personal protective equipment (PPE) might not provide sufficient protection, and equipment may require inclusion in an Electrically Safe Work Condition (ESWC) program.

The interview also addressed the enhanced training requirements under the new standard. IBEW Local 134 electricians are well-positioned to meet these requirements, with access to nearly 100 continuing education classes year-round, covering the latest technologies and maintenance best practices.

For facility owners concerned about compliance, Stolspart offered reassurance. While equipment owners are responsible for ensuring compliance under Section 4.2.1, they’re not required to perform the maintenance themselves. Instead, they can partner with qualified contractors like those affiliated with Powering Chicago to develop and implement appropriate maintenance programs.

Watch the full interview here.

Ready to Ensure Your Facility’s Electrical Safety?

Don’t wait to update your electrical maintenance program to meet new NFPA 70B requirements. Find a qualified Powering Chicago contractor today to help develop and implement a compliant maintenance program that protects your facility and employees.