NFPA 70E 2024 Arc Flash Risk Assessment Checklist

The NFPA 70E 2024 Arc Flash Risk Assessment Checklist operationalizes the risk assessment process outlined in Chapter 130—specifically Sections 130.5 and 130.7. It begins with system characterization (e.g., voltage level, available fault current, protective device clearing time) and proceeds through hazard identification, incident energy analysis (either via detailed calculation or the simplified arc flash PPE category method), boundary determination (arc flash boundary, limited approach boundary, restricted approach boundary), and documentation of findings. A core principle is that the assessment must be performed *before* any work is conducted on energized electrical equipment—and updated when system modifications occur or at least every five years. The checklist integrates human factors, such as worker training and job briefing requirements, and mandates verification of upstream protective device coordination to ensure realistic clearing times used in calculations. Crucially, it emphasizes hierarchy of controls: elimination and substitution (de-energization first) take precedence over PPE selection, aligning with the standard’s overarching philosophy of risk reduction rather than mere hazard tolerance.