Simplify NFPA 70E Compliance with Switch-Rated Plugs and Receptacles from MELTRIC
MELTRIC Switch-Rated plugs and receptacles offer significant advantages over pin and sleeve devices when it comes to protecting workers and simplifying NFPA 70E compliance.
Connecting or disconnecting a MELTRIC Switch-Rated plug or receptacle is an NFPA 70E-defined “Normal Operation” and personal protective equipment is not required.
According to the NFPA 70E standard, Normal Operation of electrical equipment is permitted as long as:
- The equipment is properly installed and maintained;
- It is used in accordance with instructions included in the labeling and listing, and included in the manufacturer’s instructions;
- Doors are closed and secured;
- Covers are in place and secured;
- And there is no evidence of impending failure
As a result, when MELTRIC Switch-Rated plugs and receptacles are installed, workers can safely connect and disconnect welders, motors, and other electrical equipment with plug-and-play simplicity.
In contrast, most pin-and-sleeve plugs and receptacles are not safe to connect or disconnect under load.
Before disconnecting a pin-and-sleeve plug, workers should verify that it is deenergized.
This typically requires switching off power at a local disconnect and then verifying that power is actually off.
The verification process requires the worker to wear Arc Flash PPE, chosen based upon the type and voltage of the equipment being checked. The particular type of PPE required depends on the Arc Flash PPE Category – rated from 1 to 4, as detailed in the PPE table in the NFPA 70E standard.
In summary, operating pin-and-sleeve plugs and receptacles typically requires verification of deenergization, which necessitates qualified workers to wear PPE.
A far better solution is to install MELTRIC Switch-Rated plugs and receptacles. Operating them is an NFPA 70E-defined “Normal Operation” that does not require PPE.
Looking to simplify NFPA 70E compliance?
Contact MELTRIC today.