NEC & NFPA 70B

Overview

In the dynamic field of electrical maintenance and safety, adherence to industry standards is crucial. The IEEE standards and the new NFPA 70B requirements provide comprehensive guidelines to ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of electrical systems through regular thermographic inspections. At Delta ΔT, we are committed to helping you navigate these regulations and maintain compliance with the highest industry standards.

New NFPA 70B Requirements

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has updated its NFPA 70B standards, to include more stringent requirements for electrical system inspections. The latest updates mandate regular thermographic inspections to enhance electrical safety and reliability.

Key NFPA 70B Requirements:

• Annual Inspections: The 2023 update to NFPA 70B now mandates that all electrical equipment must be inspected at least once every 12 months. This is a significant shift from previous recommendations, which advised annual inspections but did not make them mandatory.

• Semi-Annual Inspections for Condition 3 Equipment: Equipment categorized under Equipment Physical Condition 3, which includes systems with previously identified urgent issues, must undergo thermographic inspections every six months. This ensures that high-risk equipment is closely monitored to prevent failures and enhance safety.

• Qualified Personnel: NFPA 70B requires that thermographic inspections be conducted by qualified professionals who are trained and certified in infrared thermography. This ensures that inspections are performed accurately and effectively.

IEEE Standards for Infrared Thermography

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) sets rigorous standards for infrared thermographic inspections, which are essential for maintaining the integrity of electrical systems. These standards ensure that inspections are conducted with precision and accuracy, providing valuable insights into the health of your electrical infrastructure.

Key IEEE Standards:

• IEEE 1637-2013: This standard outlines the procedures for performing infrared inspections of electrical systems. It emphasizes the importance of using calibrated equipment and trained personnel to achieve accurate results.

• IEEE Std 3001.2-2017: This guide covers the recommended practices for electrical systems in commercial buildings, including the use of thermography for preventive maintenance.

By following these IEEE standards, you can ensure that your thermographic inspections are reliable and effective, helping you identify potential issues before they lead to costly failures.

Benefits of Compliance

1. Enhanced Safety: Regular thermographic inspections help identify potential hazards such as overheating components and electrical faults, reducing the risk of fires and other safety incidents.

2. Increased Reliability: By detecting and addressing issues early, you can prevent unexpected equipment failures, ensuring the continuous operation of your electrical systems.

3. Cost Savings: Preventive maintenance through thermographic inspections can save you money by avoiding costly emergency repairs and minimizing downtime.

4. Regulatory Adherence: Staying compliant with IEEE and NFPA 70B standards ensures that your operations meet the latest industry regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.

What we bring to the table

At Delta ΔT, we ensure your compliance with all relevant regulations and standards. Our team of certified professionals conducts thorough thermographic inspections using state-of-the-art equipment. We help you maintain compliance with IEEE standards, NFPA 70B, NEC, and OSHA regulations, ensuring the safety and efficiency of your electrical systems.

Our Services Include:

• Scheduled Inspections: We offer regular inspection schedules to ensure your equipment remains compliant with annual and semi-annual requirements.

• Detailed Reporting: Our reports include high-resolution thermal images, analysis of findings, and recommendations for corrective actions.

• Expert Consultation: We provide expert advice on maintaining compliance and improving the safety and reliability of your electrical systems.

• Training and Support: We offer training programs to help your in-house maintenance teams stay up-to-date with the latest standards and best practices.

Get your Inspection Today

Contact Delta ΔT today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you keep costly downtime to a minimum and safeguard your assets!