Some of the changes in NFPA 70E 2009 include:

Improved work practices reduce risks:

· A new requirement in the 2009 70E for Fire Rated clothing for H/R Category 1 precludes the use of cotton clothing. This change reduces the risks for second-degree thermal burns.

· An expanded Table in Article 130 covers added tasks such as thermographic imaging, and new equipment including arc-resistant switchgear.

· Added Article 350 provides first-time requirements for the protection of electrical personnel in R&D labs.

· A new exception verifies that 240 V and less power systems fed by a single transformer less than 125 kvs no longer require an arc flash hazard analysis.

· Expanded requirements for multi-employer relationships address potential areas of oversight, and improves contractor communication about electrical hazards.

· New recordkeeping requirements for training and safety program audits answer OSHA's need for records and ensure data is available when you need it.

Other changes expand your know-how:

• To help engineers calculate incident energy the first step in determining the correct type of PPE for a given task—a new Annex D in the 2009 NFPA 70E consolidates all equations, adds new tables, and offers more options to detailed calculations. For example, a new utility table derived from the NEC helps utility and industrial plant workers calculate PPE based on voltage and fault current data.
• Annex F clarifies the Hazard/Risk evaluation procedure and provides sample worksheets.
• A flow chart in Annex J helps users determine the need for an Energized Electrical Work Permit.
• Annex M helps workers and supervisors evaluate layering of PPE.
• Annex N explains safe work practices near overhead and underground lines.