Evaluating EV Charging Infrastructure Safety Risks

At PowerTest26 in Nashville, EC&M Editor-in-Chief Ellen Parson spoke with Bibek Karki, Regional Director of Engineering at IPS PowerServe on March 2, after his presentation titled “Electrical Hazard Risk Assessment on EV Supply Equipment (EVSE) & EV Chargers with Calculations & Case Studies.” Hosted by NETA, the InterNational Electrical Testing Association, PowerTest26 brought together some of the most recognized subject matter experts in the power industry. In the interview Karki explains that hazard assessments for EV installations must consider the entire upstream electrical system — including transformers, overcurrent protective devices, panels, and feeders — rather than focusing solely on the charger itself. Drawing from field experience, multiple case studies, and his own research, Karki discusses the arc flash and shock hazards that can arise in Level 2 EVSE systems, how NFPA 70E approach boundaries apply during maintenance and troubleshooting, and where the highest risk exposures typically occur. He also emphasizes the importance of following the hierarchy of risk control during maintenance activities — with elimination and de-energizing equipment as the preferred approach whenever possible — and notes that workers should avoid crossing the restricted approach boundary, which is approximately 1 ft for 240V equipment. The conversation also explores how system design decisions, evolving technology, and the requirements of NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, and NFPA 70B are shaping safer EV infrastructure as electrification continues to expand.