Governing Regulations
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Labor, is charged with the enforcement of safety and health conditions of workers through the use of regulations published in the Code of Federal Regulations. OSHA regulations are published in Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations. Part 1910 is reserved for general industry standards. Arc flash regulations are contained in Subpart S.
Because of the nature of arc flash events, regulations for both electrical safety and fire safety apply. Since the 1970s, OSHA has incorporated standards from the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) codes to frame electrical safety regulations. OSHA 29 CFR 1910, Subpart S, addresses vital electrical safety requirements, such as design standards, work practices, and maintenance requirements. NFPA 70 and 70E covers a comprehensive set of electricity-related regulations, including wiring, power systems, safety standards, and general-use equipment as well as general workplace safety requirements concerning electrical equipment.
