The New 2027 NFPA 70E Requirement: Why Two People May Be Needed During Certain Electrical Tasks

Electrical safety continues to evolve, and one of the most discussed changes for the 2027 edition of NFPA 70E is the requirement for an additional person to be present during energized electrical tasks that require an EEWP (energized electrical work permit), as stated in article 130.2 (A) (2).

Prior editions of NFPA 70E did not require a second person during permit-required energized work. The decision was left to the employer’s risk assessment procedure under the electrical safety program, supported only by an informational note suggesting that the employer determine when a second person was warranted. The 2027 edition converts that guidance into a mandatory requirement tied to a specific trigger. The distinction matters because because not all energized work requires a permit. Testing, troubleshooting and voltage measuring are exempt from the EEWP, as are thermography, ultrasound and visual inspections provided the restricted approach boundary is not crossed, but in each case the exemption applies only where a qualified person uses appropriate safe work practices and PPE.

Energized work is not a matter of preference. NFPA 70E permits it only where de-energizing would introduce additional hazards or is not feasible because of equipment design or operational limitations. Because work incidents involving electrical shock or arc flash can escalate quickly, potentially leaving an injured worker unable to summon help on their own, this requirement has been put into place.

The 2027 NFPA 70E edition addresses this concern by requiring an additional person who can provide emergency response assistance when an EEWP is required. The purpose is simple: improve incident response time and reduce the severity of injuries if an electrical incident occurs.

Is a second qualified worker required in 2027 NFPA 70E?

Importantly, NFPA 70E does not require the second individual to be a qualified electrical worker. Their role is to provide emergency response, including calling emergency services, safely releasing a worker who cannot let go of energized equipment (contact release), administering first aid, and performing CPR when necessary. However, the second person must be trained in emergency response procedures and capable of responding effectively during an incident.

There are two important limits to identify. First, an unqualified person may not cross the restricted approach boundary and may be inside the limited approach boundary only when advised of the hazards and continuously escorted by a qualified person. Therefore, the facility needs to plan in advance addressing how contact release would actually be carried out. Second, a rescuer must never become the second victim. Contact release requires de-energizing the source or using an approved insulated means such as an insulated rescue hook, never using bare-handed contact.

If a facility reviews the work and it is determined an EEWP is needed per the standard, and documents justification for why the work must be performed in an energized condition, they may need to adjust staffing and training programs to comply with the new additional person requirement.

This NFPA 70E change reflects a broader industry trend: electrical safety is moving beyond PPE and labels toward a more comprehensive risk-management approach.

We have been fielding many questions from our clients on the additional worker requirement. Here are some of the most common questions we have received:

Does the additional person need to wear PPE?

No, arc rated and shock PPE are not required for the additional person while they remain outside the limited approach boundary or the arc flash boundary, whichever is greater. The standard requires the additional person to be present at that boundary, not merely somewhere outside it. In addition, if the emergency response plan contemplates them entering to perform contact release or to move an injured worker, then PPE and insulated rescue equipment need to be planned for in advance.

Does the additional person need to be a “qualified person”?

No, the additional person does not need to be a qualified person but does need to be trained in emergency response which includes CPR, contact release and first aid.

Does removing covers or panels on electrical equipment for a visual inspection require an energized electrical work permit (EEWP)?

No, a visual inspection of electrical equipment shall be permitted without an EEWP if a qualified person wears the appropriate PPE and uses electrical safe work practices if the restricted approach boundary is not crossed.

How many additional persons must be present if an energized electrical work permit (EEWP) is required?

According to the NFPA 70E, at least one additional person must be present.

Who is considered a qualified person according to NFPA 70E?

According to 2027 NFPA 70E, “A qualified person shall be trained and knowledgeable in the construction and operation of equipment or a specific work method and be trained to identify and avoid the electrical hazards that might be present with respect to that equipment or work method. Such persons shall also be familiar with the proper use of applicable precautionary techniques, electrical policies, procedures, PPE, insulating materials, shielding materials, insulated tools and test equipment.”

Are you prepared for the NFPA 70E changes?

At Lume Safety, we are helping organizations prepare for the 2027 NFPA 70E changes by updating your arc flash assessment, electrical safety training and safety program. We also have in-house NFPA 70B experts who can develop and oversee your 70B maintenance program including IR thermography and equipment maintenance. Not sure where to start? An onsite NFPA 70B compliance assessment can identify gaps and highlight where you need to focus to stay on top of your electrical maintenance program needs.

Now is the time to assess your electrical safety program and procedures to determine whether your facility is up to date and prepared for the next generation of electrical safety requirements. Contact us today to get started.