Unfortunately the assessment is sometimes triggered by an unplanned incident such as an electrical shock injury, an arc flash burn, an unexpected shutdown, unexplained equipment damage, or an inoperative emergency power system. The results of an electrical hazard risk assessment constitute one of the most important factors in the selection of PPE; developing or updating training programs; and developing or revising an electrical safety program, along with safe work procedures.
Direction and resources for conducting an electrical hazard risk assessment are available to industry. Primary drivers for hazard assessments are OSHA, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).