How to Get Your Electrical Safety Certification
What is NFPA?
NFPA stands for the National Fire Protection Association. Founded in 1896, this nonprofit organization now has more than 75,000 members with the mission to reduce fire and other related hazards. NFPA develops and publishes more than 300 codes and standards to minimize the possibility and effects of fire and electrical hazards.
What is NFPA 70E?
NFPA 70E is the Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, which lays out the requirements for safe work practices. The goal is to protect employees by reducing exposure to major electrical hazards and help companies and employees avoid workplace injuries and fatalities due to shock, electrocution, arc flash, and arc blast. NFPA 70E facilitates compliance with OSHA 1910 Subpart S and OSHA 1926 Subpart K.
What is CESCP?
CESCP stands for Certified Electrical Safety Compliance Professional. It’s a program for electrical and safety professionals who oversee electrical safety programs or manage workers exposed to electrical hazards. Earning CESCP certification shows that you have the knowledge and proficiency in NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. Goals include:
- Promoting professional development
- Ensuring a fair certification process
- Ensuring electrical safety in workplaces
- Recognizing electrical safety competence
How Do You Get Certified?
To get certified, first you need to meet a set of eligibility requirements before applying to the program. Then, applicants must pass a 110-question, computer-based examination. The exam is a three hour, open-book, multiple-choice exam based on the NFPA 70E standard. After certification, you have to re-certify every three years by meeting a set of re-certification requirements based on a points system.
What are the Entry Requirements?
All candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and complete at least 40 hours of electrical safety training. Electrician applicants must be licensed electricians with four years of work experience with electrical power systems. Electrical engineers must have a(n):
- Associate degree in electrical engineering and four years of work experience with electrical power systems; OR
- Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering with two years of work experience with electrical power systems (field work); OR
- Registered Professional Electrical Engineer License
Other candidates must have relevant education, experience, and/or be a Certified Safety Professional.
