Improving Workplace Safety with Connected Solutions & NFPA 70B Compliance
Wesco International Shares Survey Insights on Connected Safety Solutions and NFPA 70B Implementation
Wesco International, a leading distributor of B2B products, logistics, and supply chain services, has released findings from a recent survey conducted in collaboration with the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI). The study was designed to assess how connected safety technologies and updates to NFPA 70B: Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance are impacting workplace safety and where further improvements may be needed. Conducted in August 2024, the survey gathered responses from 200 safety professionals across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and more.
An infographic summarizing key results is available online. To learn more about Wesco’s safety offerings, visit their website, and for additional electrical safety education and resources, head to ESFI.org.
The Role of Connected Safety Technologies in Enhancing Workplace Safety
Electrical hazards remain one of the primary causes of workplace injuries and fatalities in the U.S. More than 80% of safety professionals surveyed identified electrical risks as a top concern in their facilities. The adoption of connected safety technologies—such as video surveillance tools, wearable tech, robotics, and safety software—has proven effective in reducing workplace incidents. In fact, 95% of participants reported a decline in injuries following the implementation of such solutions.
Additionally, 78% of respondents noted a significant or substantial improvement in workplace safety due to these technologies. Among those yet to adopt them, nearly 80% expressed plans to do so, with wearable devices and machine sensors being the most sought-after tools.
Understanding the Impact of NFPA 70B Compliance
The survey also evaluated the influence of the updated NFPA 70B standard, which now provides formalized guidance for electrical equipment maintenance in facility operations. With the standard now classified as mandatory, it offers a structured framework for consistent electrical safety practices.
A recent joint publication by Wesco and ESFI emphasized how connected safety technologies can help organizations meet NFPA 70B standards more effectively while elevating overall safety standards. Survey results revealed that 87% of respondents had already adopted the updated standard, and 79% of those saw notable improvements in electrical safety. Although the majority encountered no major issues during implementation (73%), some cited challenges around training, awareness, and organizational culture.
Safety Management Services: A Critical Support Tool
The findings also highlighted that 80% of respondents still conduct equipment and environmental safety inspections manually, underlining the importance of professional safety management services. By working with Certified Safety Professionals and global partners like Wesco, organizations can boost efficiency, reduce risk, and improve profitability through customized safety programs and workforce training.
“We’re committed to educating the industry on how connected safety technologies and services can support compliance with standards like NFPA 70B and ultimately improve workplace safety,” said Shawn Gregg, Wesco’s Vice President of Global Safety Business.
“Our collaboration with ESFI enables us to share valuable insights and equip today’s professionals with practical tools and strategies to protect the essential workers who drive progress.”
Jennifer LeFevre, Executive Director of ESFI, added, “This survey clearly demonstrates the positive impact of connected safety solutions on reducing workplace injuries and highlights areas where additional outreach and education are needed. We’re proud to partner with Wesco in promoting greater awareness and action around electrical safety.”
Wesco International, a leading distributor of B2B products, logistics, and supply chain services, has released findings from a recent survey conducted in collaboration with the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI). The study was designed to assess how connected safety technologies and updates to NFPA 70B: Standard for Electrical Equipment Maintenance are impacting workplace safety and where further improvements may be needed. Conducted in August 2024, the survey gathered responses from 200 safety professionals across various sectors, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and more.
An infographic summarizing key results is available online. To learn more about Wesco’s safety offerings, visit their website, and for additional electrical safety education and resources, head to ESFI.org.
The Role of Connected Safety Technologies in Enhancing Workplace Safety
Electrical hazards remain one of the primary causes of workplace injuries and fatalities in the U.S. More than 80% of safety professionals surveyed identified electrical risks as a top concern in their facilities. The adoption of connected safety technologies—such as video surveillance tools, wearable tech, robotics, and safety software—has proven effective in reducing workplace incidents. In fact, 95% of participants reported a decline in injuries following the implementation of such solutions.
Additionally, 78% of respondents noted a significant or substantial improvement in workplace safety due to these technologies. Among those yet to adopt them, nearly 80% expressed plans to do so, with wearable devices and machine sensors being the most sought-after tools.
Understanding the Impact of NFPA 70B Compliance
The survey also evaluated the influence of the updated NFPA 70B standard, which now provides formalized guidance for electrical equipment maintenance in facility operations. With the standard now classified as mandatory, it offers a structured framework for consistent electrical safety practices.
A recent joint publication by Wesco and ESFI emphasized how connected safety technologies can help organizations meet NFPA 70B standards more effectively while elevating overall safety standards. Survey results revealed that 87% of respondents had already adopted the updated standard, and 79% of those saw notable improvements in electrical safety. Although the majority encountered no major issues during implementation (73%), some cited challenges around training, awareness, and organizational culture.
Safety Management Services: A Critical Support Tool
The findings also highlighted that 80% of respondents still conduct equipment and environmental safety inspections manually, underlining the importance of professional safety management services. By working with Certified Safety Professionals and global partners like Wesco, organizations can boost efficiency, reduce risk, and improve profitability through customized safety programs and workforce training.
“We’re committed to educating the industry on how connected safety technologies and services can support compliance with standards like NFPA 70B and ultimately improve workplace safety,” said Shawn Gregg, Wesco’s Vice President of Global Safety Business.
“Our collaboration with ESFI enables us to share valuable insights and equip today’s professionals with practical tools and strategies to protect the essential workers who drive progress.”
Jennifer LeFevre, Executive Director of ESFI, added, “This survey clearly demonstrates the positive impact of connected safety solutions on reducing workplace injuries and highlights areas where additional outreach and education are needed. We’re proud to partner with Wesco in promoting greater awareness and action around electrical safety.”
Companies