What’s Changing for Electrical Safety in 2027?

In a recent discussion, Greg Hollingsworth examined a major addition to the 2027 NFPA 70E Standard that will affect how energized electrical work is performed. He considered what the new requirement means for worker protection, and how organizations can use it to prevent incidents rather than simply respond to them.

In this exclusive article, Greg expands on that change and argues that the required standby person can provide greater value when qualified to observe the work, verify each step, and intervene before an electrical accident occurs.

⚡Inside The Article

Expert Perspective: Greg Hollingsworth on Electrical Safety in 2027

Standby support becomes mandatory

When an energized electrical work permit is required, an additional person with emergency response training must remain nearby but beyond the applicable approach or arc-flash boundary.

Working alone is treated as a hazard

The new provision recognizes that energized work without nearby support creates risk and establishes another layer of protection for the qualified worker completing the task.

Emergency readiness is the minimum.

Although the U.S. may add roughly 445 GW of generation by 2030, new infrastructure must be delivered quickly enough to serve loads already seeking connections.

Qualified oversight can prevent incidents

Assigning another qualified worker creates an opportunity to monitor the task, confirm energized-work steps, and stop an unsafe action before it results in injury.

Safety programs should exceed compliance

Greg argues that organizations should not limit their practices to the standard’s baseline requirement when a more capable standby worker can help eliminate hazards proactively.

From energized-work permits and emergency response to qualified-worker oversight and accident prevention, this article considers how one standards change can strengthen everyday electrical safety practices.