The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70B standard sets forth standards for “Electrical Equipment Maintenance”. In its 2023 edition, chapter 9 of NFPA 70B transitions from a “Recommended Practice” to a more structured “Standard” with a heightened emphasis on mandatory compliance. However, unlike the National Electric Code (NEC), which is adopted by states as law, NFPA 70B is not directly mandated by law and should be regarded as a foundational guideline for ensuring electrical safety.
NFPA 70B aims to establish an Electrical Maintenance Program geared towards enhancing safety and reliability. The 2023 edition of NFPA 70B introduces new classifications for physical conditions of equipment (referred to as Levels 1, 2, and 3), which dictate the frequency of maintenance, ranging from 6 to 60 month intervals, contingent upon the product category.
When conducting maintenance, it is always advisable to adhere closely to the recommendations and instructions provided by equipment manufacturers, as this represents a best practice approach to ensure optimal performance and safety.
How does ESL’s equipment help comply with NFPA 70B?
When using portable generators in conjunction with an ESL StormSwitch®, TripleSwitch®, DualConnect™, or RotaryConnect™ system, it’s essential to ensure seamless operation. To do so, first disconnect the portable generator from the ESL unit. Then, connect a portable load bank to the portable generator in accordance with the generator manufacturer’s recommended maintenance instructions. This ensures efficient and reliable performance of the generator. For permanent generators integrated with an ESL TripleSwitch® or DualConnect™ system, a similar approach applies. In this case, simply connect a portable load bank to the output CAMs on the ESL unit, adhering closely to the generator manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. This step facilitates optimal functioning and longevity of the generator setup within the ESL system.
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