Not without a documented work permit outlined by your organization. PPE helps reduce risk, but it doesn’t make energized work “safe.” Energized work requires justification, a job hazard analysis, and written approval—even if the gear is adequate. 

A short circuit study helps calculate potential fault currents, ensuring your equipment can withstand and operate safely under fault conditions.

Proper device coordination minimizes downtime and protects equipment by ensuring that protective devices operate in the correct sequence during a fault.

NFPA 70E requires updates at least every 5 years, or whenever major electrical changes occur. If you’ve done renovations, replaced equipment, or adjusted breaker settings, it’s time for a new study.

No. Labels are just one piece of the puzzle and they are not always required. True compliance also requires up-to-date system documentation, personal protective equipment policies, documented work procedures, and proper employee training. Labels alone won't protect your team or your business. You need an actual written assessment.

For most equipment, a single “worst-case” label is recommended. Adding more can confuse workers and increase liability if someone chooses the lower-rated label without understanding the risk.

Labels don’t tell the full story. A complete system model identifies fault current issues, verifies protective device coordination, and supports safe decision-making. It’s the foundation for both safety and operational planning.

No. There’s no U.S. law or OSHA regulation that explicitly says, “You must perform an arc flash study every five years.”

However, NFPA 70E—the industry standard for electrical safety—requires that your arc flash risk assessment be reviewed at least every five years to ensure it still reflects your current electrical system.

While NFPA 70E isn’t a law, OSHA often uses it as the benchmark for what’s considered safe practice. Failing to follow it can leave employers vulnerable under OSHA’s General Duty Clause.

Not necessarily. NFPA 70E does not require arc flash labels to be replaced on a five-year schedule.

Labels must be updated if:

• Your electrical system changes.

• Arc flash hazard levels change.

• PPE requirements change.

If your system remains the same and your assessment is still accurate, the labels can remain in place.

Yes. The five-year review requirement applies to all arc flash risk assessments, regardless of whether you use:

• The Incident Energy Analysis Method (calculations yielding specific incident energy levels)

• The PPE Category Method (table-based approach in NFPA 70E)

Either way, you’re required to confirm that your assessment is still valid at least every five years—or sooner if changes occur.

Technically, no. NFPA 70E is a consensus standard—not law.

Practically, yes. OSHA relies on NFPA 70E as the recognized standard for electrical safety. In an incident investigation or legal case, failing to follow NFPA 70E can expose employers to significant liability.

Best practice is:

• Review your arc flash study at least every five years.

• Update your study any time your electrical system changes significantly.

• Keep clear records proving your assessments are current.

Following NFPA 70E helps protect your workers and demonstrates due diligence if OSHA ever investigates.