This is part 3 in our new Arc Flash blog series. Click here to read the first one "Arc Flash 101" and here for part 2 "Beyond the Label: Building a Complete Electrical Safety Program"!
When it comes to electrical safety, particularly with arc flash hazards, the word “qualified” carries a lot of weight and legal responsibility. But what does it really mean to be a qualified electrical worker? It’s a question that Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 70E) both answer in clear, measurable terms. In this third blog in our Arc Flash Series, we’ll break down what qualifying entails, where teams often fall short and how to ensure your electrical workers are truly ready to work safely.
What “Qualified” Really Means
Per NFPA 70E and OSHA 1910 Subpart S standards, a qualified person is someone who:
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has demonstrated skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of electrical equipment and installations
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and has received safety training to identify and avoid the electrical hazards present.
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This goes far beyond “knowing your way around a panel.” Qualification requires proven ability, task-specific knowledge, and documented training, not just general electrical experience.
Training & Knowledge Requirements
To meet the standard, qualified workers must receive training that covers:
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the nature of arc flash hazards, shock risks, and approach boundaries.
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proper personal protective equipment (PPE) selection and use, including reading arc flash labels and understanding incident energy values.
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safe work practices, such as lockout/tagout (LOTO), energized work permits and voltage testing protocols.
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and emergency response procedures, including what to do during an arc flash event.
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Training must be in the classroom, hands-on and tailored to the tasks employees are expected to perform.
Demonstrated Skills & Documentation
When it comes to arc flash safety, completing a training course is only the first step. According to NFPA 70E, workers must demonstrate that they’re qualified and it’s up to the employer to define, assess and document that qualification based on the actual electrical tasks and equipment at their facility.
In practice, this means going beyond generic training to ensure your team is prepared for your systems. A thorough qualification program typically includes:
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knowledge checks: written assessments to confirm understanding of arc flash hazards and safety principles.
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hands-on evaluations: practical demonstrations that show workers can apply safe practices in the field.
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and formal documentation: a record of training dates, topics covered, instructor credentials, and performance evaluations.
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Qualification includes task-specific and site-specific electrical safety programs and policies that are in alignment and should be updated regularly to reflect changes in systems, job roles, or safety standards. Simply put: real-world safety starts with real-world readiness.
Retraining & Frequency
Even qualified employees need refreshers. Per NFPA 70E Section 110.6, retraining must occur:
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at least every three years
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whenever there is a change in job duties or the electrical equipment used
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if a safety audit reveals a deficiency
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and after an incident or near-miss
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Continuous learning ensures that workers don’t become complacent and that your program remains compliant and effective.
Common Gaps in Qualification Programs
Despite best intentions, many facilities fall short. Common issues include:
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assuming electricians are automatically “qualified” without verifying specific training.
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relying on voltage, equipment type or task alone to assess PPE needs (instead of incident energy calculations).
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failing to maintain up-to-date documentation.
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and neglecting retraining after personnel changes or procedural updates.
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If you’ve never conducted a gap analysis of your electrical safety program, now is the time.
Closing Thoughts
We help clients go beyond compliance — building safety programs that protect people, equipment and operations. Qualifying your electrical workers is one of the most important steps you can take to reduce arc flash risks and empower your team.
Let us know how we can help your facility align with NFPA 70E standards and ensure your team is fully prepared and qualified to work safely.
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