2015 70E 130.7(C)(15)(A)(a)

[nmelectrical]

Using the new tables any normal operation (I consider normal operation LOTO only) of the CB/Switch no PPE would be required even on 4160V starters. That is my interpretation -- thoughts?

4160 Starters do fall within the 70E 130.7(C)(15)(A)(b) limits.

 

[zog]

This is where things get fuzzy with the new tables, what is properly maintained? If you look at the IB's for your contactor you will see the maintenence criteria, many MV contactors require monthly PM inspections, depends on the make and model of course but if you are not following the IB's it isn't properly maintained.

 

[kentirwin]

NFPA 70B

NFPA 70B

OP may want to take a look at NFPA 70B, Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance.

 

[ron]

It is interesting that 70E would give this leniency for "normal" operation.

Most installed equipment (not arc resistant) are not designed to ensure the doors stay closed during / after an arc flash. Some will consider racking a breaker in / out with doors closed to be "normal" operation. That's when I see a bunch of failures.

 

[zog]

It is interesting that 70E would give this leniency for "normal" operation.

Most installed equipment (not arc resistant) are not designed to ensure the doors stay closed during / after an arc flash. Some will consider racking a breaker in / out with doors closed to be "normal" operation. That's when I see a bunch of failures.

Yep, racking is maybe the most common time for arc flashes to occur, used to be HRC4 even with doors closed. I would never rack in a breaker without PPE or remote racking.

 

[wbdvt]

It is interesting that 70E would give this leniency for "normal" operation.

Most installed equipment (not arc resistant) are not designed to ensure the doors stay closed during / after an arc flash. Some will consider racking a breaker in / out with doors closed to be "normal" operation. That's when I see a bunch of failures.

I don't quite think it is "leniency" but with the conditions stated, operating the breaker or switch is part of it's design and based on a risk assessment, a very low risk of an arc flash event. The note at the bottom of the table addresses this.

However, the Task of Insertion or removal (racking) of CB's is a task that is identified as Arc Flash PPE Required, so it is not a normal operation with low risk of an arc flash event.