Ensuring Electrical Safety: Regulations and Standards for Inspections
What you need to know and how to comply with current regulations
Electricity powers our daily lives, from lighting and heating to powering appliances and electronic devices. However, electrical hazards can pose a serious risk to people and property. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), electrical fires account for an average of 45,210 home fires each year in the US, resulting in 455 deaths, 1,500 injuries, and $1.5 billion in property damage. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at electrical safety standards in the US and why they are crucial for protecting lives and property.

Electrical safety standards and codes in the US
Electrical safety standards and codes are regulations that govern the installation, maintenance, and use of electrical systems and equipment to ensure they are safe and reliable. These standards and codes are developed by various organizations, including the National Electrical Code (NEC), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Adherence to these standards and codes is mandatory for all electrical work, and failure to comply can result in fines, legal liability, and even criminal charges in the event of an electrical accident.
Regular inspections are crucial
Regular inspections are a critical component of electrical safety. They help identify potential hazards and ensure that electrical systems and equipment are in good working condition. The frequency of inspections depends on the type and use of equipment, but general guidelines recommend annual inspections for commercial and industrial settings and every three to five years for residential settings. Regular inspections also help ensure compliance with electrical safety standards and codes, including proper grounding and bonding, adequate wiring, and appropriate circuit protection.
What are the main regulations about electrical inspections?
Electrical inspections are an essential aspect of electrical safety, and there are various regulations and standards that govern them. Some of the main regulations about electrical inspections include:
- National Electrical Code (NEC): The NEC is a set of electrical safety standards developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). It outlines the minimum requirements for electrical installations and is updated every three years. The NEC requires that electrical installations be inspected by a qualified inspector before being put into service and at regular intervals thereafter.
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA): OSHA is a federal agency that regulates workplace safety. OSHA has specific regulations for electrical safety, including the requirement for regular electrical safety inspections in industrial and commercial settings.
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): NIOSH is a federal agency that focuses on research and prevention of workplace injuries and illnesses. NIOSH provides guidance on electrical safety, including the importance of regular electrical safety inspections.
- State and local regulations: In addition to federal regulations, individual states and local jurisdictions may have their own regulations governing electrical inspections. These regulations may include specific requirements for electrical installations, as well as requirements for inspection and testing.
Importance of Tagging Tested Equipment, Tools, and Appliances
One essential aspect of electrical safety is tagging tested equipment, tools, and appliances. Tagging identifies when an item was last inspected and whether it has passed or failed inspection. This process helps ensure that equipment, tools, and appliances are in safe working condition and that they have undergone the necessary safety checks. Tagging also helps keep track of the inspection cycle, so items can be tested and tagged as needed.

Appliance Test tags and labels requirements
In the US, appliance test tags or labels must contain specific information to ensure compliance with electrical safety standards. The required information for an appliance test tag or label includes:
- The name and contact details of the testing and tagging company or person who conducted the test.
- The date that the test was conducted.
- The date that the next test is due.
- The outcome of the test, indicating whether the appliance passed or failed the test.
- A unique identification number or code for the appliance, which can be used to track the history of the appliance and its testing and tagging.
- Information about the type of test conducted, including the method used to test the appliance and the standard to which the test was conducted.
- The voltage and frequency rating of the appliance.
- Any other relevant information, such as the make and model of the appliance, its serial number, or its location.
Having this information on an appliance test tag or label helps ensure that appliances are tested and tagged regularly and that they are safe to use. It also helps track the history of the appliance, including any repairs or maintenance that may have been performed, which can be useful for troubleshooting and maintenance purposes.
Keeping accurate records of testing and tagging activities is important for ensuring the safety of electrical equipment in the workplace. It also helps to demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements and can be useful for tracking the maintenance and repair history of the equipment. By complying with electrical safety standards, you can help to prevent injuries and ensure safety in the workplace. Remember, safety always comes first!
Disclaimer: The information provided is intended as a guide and must be read in conjunction with Safety Standards Regulations. Certags strives to provide accurate and credible information, however, you are responsible for checking the relevant standards and safety requirements are accurate for your application and industry.