With several NFPA standards to be presented for action in June at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) summer meeting, let’s analyze some proposed amendments to the 2026 National Electrical Code (NEC). When complete, multiple new codes and standards are set to emerge, potentially reshaping the landscape of electrical safety and compliance. These anticipated updates signal a broader shift toward proactive, data-driven approaches to managing arc flash risks and improving electrical safety across facilities.
For industrial leaders, this is both a wake-up call and an opportunity. The arc flash discussion is no longer centered solely on personal protective equipment (PPE) and signage. The conversation has expanded to include digital monitoring technologies, standardized reporting frameworks, and integrated design approaches that address risk at the source. This evolution aligns with an urgent reality: arc flash events remain one of the most dangerous — and often misunderstood — hazards in the electrical workplace. Each year in the United States, “a [conservative] estimate of 350 to 1050 ‘electric arc’ [flash] incidents” occur, according to a recent report by John Hopkins University.
The changing nature of arc flash risk
Arc flash hazards have been extensively studied, but variables such as equipment conditions, load cycles, and environmental factors make it difficult to assess risk consistently across facilities. Incident energy calculations, labeling, and worker training often rely on assessments that may not account for equipment aging or real-time operating conditions.
The electrical industry is asking for more dynamic and consistent assessment protocols. One of the most promising directions is the move toward a standardized reporting structure for arc flash incidents and near-misses, akin to the FAA's reporting culture in aviation safety. When organizations begin tracking arc flash risk data in a structured way by capturing event frequency, energy levels, and mitigation effectiveness, they create a feedback loop that drives continuous improvement.
However, this requires more than paper forms or spreadsheets — it demands digital infrastructure.
The role of digital twins and real-time monitoring
One of the most powerful tools emerging in the understanding of equipment health and associated arc flash risk landscape is the digital twin: a virtual model of an electrical system that mirrors the behavior of the physical environment. When integrated with sensors and analytics, digital twins can monitor equipment health in real time, providing early warning of deteriorating components or dangerous load conditions.
Rather than relying on calendar-based maintenance or fixed inspection intervals, facilities can shift toward predictive models, which prioritize maintenance based on real-time risk. Digital twins can also simulate system modifications before changes are made, allowing for safer commissioning and load management. For example, introducing a new piece of equipment or rerouting power distribution can be virtually tested for fault currents, coordination, and protective device settings, minimizing the chance of a surprise hazard emerging on the floor.
Evidence-based approaches to risk management
For organizations wanting to think beyond checklists to comply with upcoming requirements and future-proof their operations, here are three core components for taking an evidence-based approach.
- Systematic data collection. Organizations need a clear methodology for capturing maintenance and arc flash risk data across the enterprise, including incident energy levels, maintenance records, inspection intervals, device coordination settings, and environmental conditions.
- Analysis and reporting tools. Without structured analytics, data is just noise. Facilities should invest in platforms that convert raw information into actionable insights, such as generating risk heatmaps, trend analyses, and equipment prioritization reports. AI-driven platforms are emerging that can detect anomalies before they are noticeable to humans.
- Continuous learning loops. The most mature organizations build risk management into their operational culture by doing regular arc flash training updates and incorporating post-incident reviews and lessons learned into design standards and procurement decisions.
What facilities should do now
With the 2026 NEC almost here, and new editions of NFPA 70E and NFPA 70B on the horizon, below are several practical, concrete steps organizations can proactively take today to build a foundation for both compliance and continuous improvement:
- Audit your existing arc flash program. You can start by asking questions like: When was your last incident energy analysis? Do your electrical studies and arc flash labels comply with the update intervals listed in the standards? Are maintenance schedules and protective device settings aligned with actual system behavior?
- Explore digital monitoring solutions. Investigate how condition monitoring, power quality sensors, or digital twins could be applied to your electrical infrastructure. Pilot projects can often be launched with minimal investment.
- Standardize your incident and risk reporting. Develop a template and workflow for logging all arc flash events, even near misses. Encourage open reporting and treat incidents as learning opportunities, not failures.
- Engage with upcoming industry discussions. Participate in industry webinars and roundtables to understand where the Code is headed and how to shape it. Proactivity in compliance is far less costly than scrambling in reaction.
- Elevate internal collaboration. Break down silos between electrical engineers, safety officers, maintenance teams, and procurement. Arc flash risk touches all of them, and a shared strategy is more effective than isolated efforts.
A safer, smarter future
The upcoming changes offer more than a compliance challenge; they present a chance to reset our approach to electrical safety. With digital tools and an evidence-based mindset, facilities can make meaningful strides toward eliminating arc flash hazards and creating workplaces where workers go home safe every day. As stewards of power systems and infrastructure, we have both a responsibility and an opportunity to lead. Those who embrace the shift early will not only meet the new standards but help define them.
As the industry continues prioritizing safety, it's important to stay informed about evolving standards and best practices, particularly in areas such as arc flash hazard marking. With the industry's anticipation of updates in the 2026 NEC, including potential changes to arc flash hazard marking requirements, remaining informed about these developments is essential for maintaining safety compliance.