The 2023 edition of NFPA 70B – Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance introduced one of the most significant changes the electrical industry has seen in decades.
Maintenance practices that were once considered recommended guidelines are now written as mandatory expectations for equipment owners. Facilities are now expected to implement and maintain documented Electrical Maintenance Programs to support safe and reliable operation.
For facility managers and plant engineers, this shift means electrical infrastructure can no longer be maintained reactively. A structured maintenance strategy is now essential for reducing risk, improving system reliability, and protecting personnel.
Cogburn Electric helps facilities understand these changes and implement practical programs that align with NFPA 70B maintenance expectations.
An Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP) is a managed system for inspecting, testing, monitoring, and maintaining electrical equipment throughout its lifecycle.
Rather than reacting to equipment failures, an EMP focuses on identifying potential issues early and implementing maintenance strategies that prevent unexpected outages or safety hazards.
A properly designed EMP typically includes:
• Inspection and testing of electrical equipment
• Preventive maintenance schedules
• System documentation and reporting
• Monitoring and analysis of electrical infrastructure
• Maintenance procedures for critical equipment
• Ongoing review and improvement of maintenance practices
When implemented effectively, an EMP helps facilities maintain safe operations while protecting critical electrical infrastructure.
Cogburn Electric is recognized as a Qualified Electrical Maintenance Company (QEMC) through its partnership with the InterNational Electrical Testing Association (NETA).
This designation confirms that our team meets established industry standards for electrical testing, inspection, and maintenance practices aligned with NFPA 70B guidelines.
For our customers, this means confidence knowing your electrical infrastructure is maintained by technicians trained to perform critical maintenance tasks that support:
• Electrical safety
• Equipment reliability
• Regulatory compliance
• Reduced operational risk
Our team works closely with facility managers and plant engineers to implement maintenance strategies that protect operations and improve long-term electrical system performance.
Cogburn Electric can serve as the designated coordinator for your facility’s Electrical Maintenance Program (EMP).
In this role, we work directly with your team to develop, implement, and maintain a structured program that aligns with NFPA 70B standards while supporting the operational needs of your facility.
Our EMP coordination services may include:
• Development of facility maintenance strategies
• Scheduling and tracking of required maintenance intervals
• Equipment inspections and testing
• Compliance documentation
• Maintenance record management
• Annual program reviews and updates
This structured approach provides long-term visibility and accountability for your facility’s electrical infrastructure while helping ensure maintenance activities remain organized and consistent.
Electrical distribution systems often operate in the background of facility operations until a failure occurs. Without a structured maintenance plan, components such as switchgear, breakers, transformers, and bus systems can deteriorate over time.
A properly implemented Electrical Maintenance Program helps facilities:
• Reduce unplanned outages
• Extend equipment life
• Improve worker safety
• Identify developing failures before they occur
• Maintain NFPA 70B maintenance expectations
• Maintain documentation for audits and insurance requirements
At Cogburn Electric, our goal is to help facilities implement practical maintenance strategies that protect both operations and personnel.
Electrical infrastructure plays a critical role in maintaining safe and productive operations. Through proactive maintenance and structured program management, Cogburn Electric helps facilities maintain dependable electrical systems while reducing operational risk.
Our team works closely with facility leadership to evaluate existing electrical systems, identify maintenance priorities, and develop programs that align with operational requirements.
The goal is simple: keep your facility powered safely, efficiently, and reliably.
