From 'Should' to 'Shall': Electrical Maintenance Just Got Real

In the world of electrical safety, one small word can mean big changes. With the release of NFPA 70B 2023, “should” became “shall”—and now, preventative maintenance isn’t just good advice, it’s the law for many facilities.

So, what does that mean for you? Let’s break it down.

What’s NFPA 70B?

NFPA 70B is the standard for electrical equipment maintenance, covering everything from transformers and switchgear to control panels and breakers. Before 2023, it offered guidelines—best practices you could follow if you wanted. Now? It’s a mandatory standard, especially for commercial, industrial, and healthcare facilities.

What’s Now Required? 

Under NFPA 70B 2023, you must: 

⚡ Develop a maintenance plan specific to your equipment. 

⚡ Perform scheduled inspections, testing, and servicing—not just when something breaks. 

⚡ Document everything to prove compliance and track system health.

This includes tasks like cleaning components, testing insulation, checking for wear, and ensuring systems operate at peak performance.

Why the Change?

Because ignoring electrical maintenance is a recipe for disaster. The shift from “should” to “shall” is about preventing equipment failures, fires, costly downtime, and safety hazards before they happen. It’s proactive protection—not reactive repairs.

Enter IBEW NECA 665

Meeting this new standard doesn’t have to be a headache. IBEW NECA 665 contractors are experts in NFPA 70B compliance. We know how to inspect, test, and maintain your systems safely and efficiently—helping you avoid fines, failures, and future headaches.

We’ll keep your facility safe, code-compliant, and running smoothly—so you can focus on business, not breakdowns.

Prevent problems before they spark. Schedule maintenance with the pros: ibewneca665.org/contractors