In November 2024, OSHA released its first significant update to arc flash safety guidance in nearly 20 years. The revision is designed to reduce arc flash incidents and align safety practices with the NFPA 70E: 2024 standard.
This Article from CBS ArcSafe covers the implications to industry of this significant electrical safety guidance renewal and outlines their extensive range of remote-racking products for the safer operation of LV MV HV electrical equipment, including circuit breakers.
“It’s been two decades since OSHA updated its arc flash safety guidance. That just changed — and it’s a big deal.”
Jump to:
Myth-Busting Electrical Safety
Defining Arc Flash Boundaries
Raising Arc Flash Hazard Awareness
Protecting Electrical Workers
How CBS ArcSafe Helps
In a recent article, Denise Green, Vice President of Operations at Group CBS, reviews the OSHA updates in depth and shares an outline of the changes, the implications they have on the industry, and their impact on employees and employers alike.
In addition to adherence to industry standards, remote operations help ensure safety when working with potentially dangerous electrical equipment. Arc flash safety solutions from CBS ArcSafe allow technicians to remote racking systems and switch equipment from outside the arc flash boundary.
What’s New in OSHA’s Arc Flash Safety Update?
“Any energized work above 50 V requires appropriate PPE — low voltage doesn’t mean no hazard.”
OSHA clarifies three approach zones used to reduce shock and arc blast injuries. These align with NFPA 70E Tables for voltage, fault current and incident energy.
OSHA supplies an Employer Guide and three concise worker one-page sheets covering hazard assessment, administrative controls, PPE selection and training.
Safety is a system, not an afterthought. The update encourages using the hierarchy of controls — elimination, engineering, administration, and PPE — and involving workers in safety programs to move from reactive to proactive safety practices.
As a distributor of CBS ArcSafe, Thorne & Derrick provide technologies that reduce worker exposure – this is a customer focussed, consultative process involving site surveys to assess risk and deliver user training to ensure optimum use of CBS ArcSafe remote racking equipment.
Remote racking and switching devices allow technicians to operate breakers and switchgear from outside the arc flash boundary.
“Safety starts before the spark.”
A versatile remote racking system designed for safe and reliable operation of low, medium, and high voltage circuit breakers.
Compact and lightweight remote racking system ideal for confined spaces and quick deployment in the field.
Features dual operational modes for enhanced flexibility and safety in remote racking applications.
Partner with Thorne & Derrick for your next electrical safety upgrade.
We provide technical expertise, online demos, and reliable specification and supply of CBS ArcSafe remote racking and switching solutions.
Thorne & Derrick are the UK’s leading Specialist Distributor of Electrical Safety Equipment to provide protection to personnel, plant and assets depending on the reliable operation of underground power cables and overhead line conductors.
We protect substation engineers, AP’s & SAP’s, cable jointers, overhead linesmen and utility workers with PPE and electrical safety products including insulating gloves, voltage detectors, insulating matting and portable earthing – we stock and supply products to ensure worker safety when carrying out maintenance, repair and construction on LV MV HV switchgear, substations, cables and electrical equipment from market-leading manufacturers including PENTA and Catu Electrical, part of the Sicame Group.
UK & Export Sales | Technical Support | Customer Service & Sales
Prevent Trip Hazards with CableSafe Safety Hooks
Thorne & Derrick supply a comprehensive range of Safety Tools and Equipment to support safe working practices across industries including construction, renewables, data centres, rail, manufacturing, and the oil, gas, and petrochemical sectors. We also offer a specialist range of Push Pull Tools designed to reduce hand injuries and enhance workplace safety.
Separating electrical cables isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for ensuring safety, system performance, and regulatory compliance. Whether you’re working in industrial, commercial, or residential settings, here are five key reasons why cable separation matters:
Cable & Electrical Safety
When power cables are bundled together tightly, they can generate excessive heat. If not properly ventilated or separated, this heat can lead to insulation damage, short circuits, or even fire hazards. Separating cables helps reduce this risk and ensures safer operation.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Reduction
Electrical cables, especially those carrying high current, emit electromagnetic fields. If signal or communication cables run too closely alongside power cables, they can pick up unwanted interference. Separating them helps maintain signal integrity and reduces noise or data errors in sensitive equipment.
Ease of Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Organised and separated cables make it easier to identify, inspect, or replace specific lines when necessary. This reduces downtime during maintenance and makes installations more professional and manageable.
Prevention of Mechanical Damage
When cables are tangled or stacked together, there’s a higher chance of bending, pulling, or abrasion—especially during equipment movement or vibration. Separation prevents wear and tear and extends the cable lifespan.
Compliance with Electrical Standards
Many safety codes and regulations (like NEC, IEC, or OSHA standards) recommend or require physical separation between certain types of cables, especially in industrial or hazardous environments.
CableSafe Safety Hooks in Use Preventing Trip Hazards and Ensuring Electrical Cable Separation on Industrial Walkways
Cable Safety Equipment | Cable Stand | Cable Bridge | Cable Rail | Cable Guard | Dropped Object Prevention Mats
Separating electrical cables is not just about tidiness—it’s a fundamental part of designing safe, efficient, and reliable electrical systems. Whether you’re an installer, maintenance engineer, or system designer, adopting good cable management practices is a small step that can make a big difference.
Looking for reliable cable management solutions?
Thorne & Derrick are UK specialists in electrical safety equipment. Contact our team for expert advice or to request a quote on CableSafe hooks and other safety tools.
Now Available from Thorne & Derrick
At Thorne & Derrick, we support the UK rail industry by supplying safety-critical technology designed to protect workers and infrastructure. As an authorised distributor of PENTA Electrical Equipment, we provide a range of innovative products that enhance rail safety across the medium and high voltage power network (MV HV) – the voltage detectors are used to ensure electrical safety on typical voltage distribution systems at 11kV, 25kV, 33kV and 66kV.
Maintenance engineers working on high-voltage railway networks now have a powerful new tool to ensure their safety during critical maintenance operations.
One such product is the PENTA MTAG — a smart high voltage detector recently featured in Rail UK News.
The PENTA MTag is a state-of-the-art voltage detector designed specifically for proving dead on high-voltage distribution systems from 1kV to 69kV, including the 25kV railway network commonly used in overhead line electrification systems.
Developed to meet IEC standards and refined through feedback from industry experts, the PENTA MTag offers unparalleled reliability, durability, and ease of use, providing maintenance crews with confidence when verifying the absence of voltage.
Voltage Detectors | Pictured MV Voltage detector MTAG from PENTA | These voltage detectors are designed for “proving dead”, making sure that nominal voltage is actually absent on a circuit in a high voltage distribution system between 1kV and 66/69kV (no-voltage verification).
The PENTA MTAG is a portable, intelligent high-voltage detection system that offers workers in the rail industry a reliable method of confirming that overhead lines are de-energised before work begins. With automatic detection and clear visual/audible alarms, PENTA MTAG enhances electrical safety for teams working on or near electrified tracks.
This technology is a step forward in improving protection during routine maintenance, emergency repairs, and infrastructure upgrades on 25kV OLE Systems.
Non-contact high voltage detection
Automatic activation when magnetically attached to the conductor
Failsafe warning system with high-visibility LED lights and audible alerts
Rugged, compact design built for the rail environment
Lightweight and easy to deploy in seconds
Railway maintenance often takes place in demanding environments, where visibility, weather, and noise can interfere with safety checks. The PENTA MTag has been designed with these challenges in mind.
Its 100 dB sound signal can be heard even in heavy traffic or high winds, thanks to a natural acoustic horn that amplifies the sound. In addition, the voltage detection device features a wide-angle visual indicator that remains clearly visible in all common working environments, including direct sunlight and fog. The innovative optic ring design ensures visibility even from the side, improving awareness of the whole team at the job site.
Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, the PENTA MTag features a sealed, watertight electronics compartment that prevents moisture ingress, ensuring long-term reliability. Maintenance crews and safety teams will appreciate the direct access to the battery, which simplifies replacements and minimises downtime – complete range of extendable and telescopic insulating and operating poles are available.
Engineer installs PENTA MTAG high voltage detector on overhead power line using hot stick
Safety is paramount in high-voltage railway maintenance, and the PENTA MTag addresses the specific needs of engineers working on 25kV overhead line systems. The voltage detection device has been optimised to ensure that maintenance crews can quickly and confidently verify no-voltage conditions before conducting work, minimising risks associated with high-voltage circuits.
Its reliable detection capabilities even in railways stations or multiple parallel lines, and durable design, make it a trusted tool for maintenance professionals working on railway networks around the world.
“The PENTA MTag is the result of years of feedback from maintenance professionals,” said Bill Earlie, Commercial Manager for PENTA UKI. “We’ve developed a tool that meets the exacting safety standards of the railway industry while ensuring ease of use and long-term reliability.
The PENTA MTag offers audible and visual feedback that cuts through the noise and visibility challenges faced by railway maintenance engineers every day.”
PENTA is a leader in the development of high-voltage testing equipment for critical sectors such as railways, energy utilities and Industries. With, a commitment to innovation and reliability for safety and performance, PENTA continues to develop products that meet the evolving needs of maintenance professionals worldwide.
PENTA is a UK-based manufacturer of specialist safety equipment for the rail and electrical engineering sectors. Their solutions are trusted by Network Rail and contractors nationwide to meet the highest standards of safety and compliance.
We supply the full range of PENTA products including:
MTAG High Voltage Detectors
Insulated Tools & Rail-Specific PPE
Whether you’re working trackside, in depots, or on infrastructure upgrades, Thorne & Derrick can help you specify and supply the correct Medium & High Voltage equipment to protect your people and operations.
Ahead of Rail Live, PENTA was featured in the official Rail Live preview – a testament to their commitment to electrical safety and innovation in the UK rail sector.
As the UK rail network continues to expand and electrify in pursuit of greener, more sustainable transport, the safety of workers operating near high-voltage infrastructure has never been more important. Electrical safety equipment plays a critical role in ensuring that rail engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel can carry out their work without compromising their wellbeing or the operational integrity of the network. One of the most critical aspects of this is the effective use of electrical safety equipment.
At Thorne & Derrick, we are proud to supply PENTA’s cutting-edge electrical safety solutions — trusted worldwide by major rail operators and utility companies.
For expert advice, technical support, or to request a quotation on PENTA Electrical Safety Products, contact Thorne & Derrick — the UK’s leading specialist distributor of electrical safety equipment for the rail industry.
A significant portion of the UK rail network is powered by electricity, primarily through overhead line equipment (OLE) and third-rail systems. These OLE systems typically support high-voltage – up to 25,000 volts AC on overhead lines and 750 volts DC in third-rail systems.
These systems are the backbone for greater transportation and reduced environmental impact. As such, they require careful monitoring and protection, not only for the smooth operation of the network but also for the safety of personnel and the public.
Reliable electrical safety equipment is vital for professionals exposed to high-voltage environments. This includes workers conducting routine inspections, maintenance, fault-finding, and emergency response.
One of the leading providers of such solutions is PENTA, a company renowned for its pioneering work in electrical safety systems. Their advanced electrical test and measurement devices are indispensable for workers operating near energised equipment. This unique solution is tailored for professionals engaged in maintenance, rescue operations, switching, pruning, and other activities in high-risk electrical environments.
A key advantage is the ability to address critical risk factors such as unplanned proximity to voltage sources, untagged work zones, or mistakenly energised circuits.
PENTA’s safety equipment is designed for day-to-day maintenance workers to safely address the risks and keep service disruptions to a minimum. They make the worksite safer by automating tasks like tension testing and voltage detection.
By introducing electrical test equipment indoors and outdoors, rail operators are better positioned to reduce workforce downtime and increase service safety. These devices are designed to stand up to harsh conditions and are tailored to ensure accurate, repeatable results under stress.
One device developed by PENTA for rail-specific use is the Overhead Line Tester Kit.
Designed to test conformity to international standards (specifically to Operational Safety in the Rail Industry (RIS-0703-NK Issue 01) and the British Standard BS EN 50110).
Overhead Line Tester Kits – Designed for rapid voltage presence detection with multi-level alerts, visual indicators, and high-visibility displays
Temporary Earthing Devices – Ensure safe access to electrified infrastructure during maintenance
CTS Tension Meter – Provides real-time measurements of catenary wire tension to prevent failures and improve reliability
Smart Voltage Detectors – Enable safe, remote voltage presence testing with wireless functionality and data logging
These tools are crucial for both planned maintenance and emergency response, helping to minimise downtime, prevent accidents, and improve overall network reliability.
The use of these systems supports the safe operation of services. Equipment such as circuit breakers, surge arresters, and grounding systems are designed to protect lives, infrastructure and expensive rolling stock from severe damage during electrical faults.
Real-time monitoring of electrical status helps to significantly reduce the risks associated with scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, allowing workers to complete tasks before serious failures create service disruptions or injuries.
The CTS Tension Meter provides precise, real-time measurements of tension in overhead catenary systems, ensuring that rail infrastructure meets the highest standards of safety and reliability, offering unmatched precision and ease of use for rail engineers and technicians.
The CTS Tension Meter has already garnered interest from key players in the rail industry, with several major rail networks adopting the technology to enhance both inspection and maintenance routines. By providing real-time, accurate data, the CTS allows operators to make informed decisions, helping them avoid costly disruptions and accidents caused by incorrect tension on the contact wire.
The UK’s Office of Rail and Road (ORR) mandates strict adherence to health and safety regulations, including the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989.
These laws require employers to ensure electrical systems are properly maintained and not to present danger. This includes a practical role to prevent all personnel working with or close to energised systems or who may accidentally encounter live equipment using proper equipment use, and emergency procedures.
Rail safety leaders also continue to reflect the importance of up-to-date equipment and following established safety protocols.
With advancements in technology, the rail industry is seeing improvements in the reliability of voltage presence meters and fault detection systems. Smart systems now offer GPS location services, cloud-connected monitoring and automation tools. All powered by secure software platforms.
Not only reduce the risk of accidents but also improve the efficiency of maintenance and safety procedures. Innovations such as sensor-equipped gloves and IoT-enabled alerting kits that report deployment status in real-time – is a glimpse into how the future of rail safety is becoming both smarter and more connected.
The UK rail industry’s commitment to electrifying large stretches of the network to drive sustainability comes with several challenges. Providers like PENTA are helping to provide cutting-edge tools that address those challenges head-on – protecting the people that power the operational backbone of our rail system.
Whether you’re planning overhead line maintenance, upgrading your safety protocols, or responding to a network emergency, we’ll help ensure your team is equipped with the most advanced, compliant, and reliable electrical equipment available.
We supply the full range of PENTA Solutions, including:
Voltage Detection Systems
Overhead Line Testing Kits
Conductor Wear & Tension Monitoring Tools
Temporary Earthing Equipment
Personal Protection Solutions
Thorne & Derrick International, a leading distributor of power systems, hazardous area equipment, and process heating solutions, is proud to celebrate its 40th anniversary this year.
Established in 1985 by Victor Thorne and Brian Derrick, the business started trading as Thorne & Derrick from premises in Brislington, Bristol. From the outset, the Company built a strong reputation, representing world-renowned manufacturers such as 3M Electrical, Band-It, and Cembre, supplying their market leading products to critical infrastructure projects and industries.
In 1988 expansion came with the acquisition of Reid Brothers (Glasgow), strengthening the Company’s presence in the strapping and load securing market.
A major milestone came in 1992, when Richard Derrick began operating in the Northeast of England working from a home office in Fenham, Newcastle. Initially Richard focused on selling Electrical Trace Heating solutions from Raychem, but after a move to Gear House in Gateshead, the Northern business expanded into the LV and HV power market. After 23 years, the office relocated to the current Northern headquarters at Lumley Court, Chester-le-Street which is the engine room of the company’s sales and marketing activity today.
In 2015, Reid Brothers was purchased from Thorne & Derrick International, in a management team buyout and is still thriving today.
Meanwhile, after 31 years in Brislington, Bristol, significant business growth forced a relocation in 2016 to Whitchurch, Bristol, where it continues to operate as the Company’s central warehouse and administration centre, coupled with a very strong Export and UK sales department.
Over four decades, Thorne & Derrick International has grown from its initial team of 6 to over 30 staff and from a first order of just £500 in August 1985, the Company is now on track to deliver over £20 million turnover in the very near future.
From the 1980s onwards, the Company has played an important role in serving the Oil & Gas, Process and Petrochemical sectors, and that has been central to its growth. As these markets continues to change, the business has expanded its product range in support, ensuring continued relevance and service excellence.
“As Managing Director, I’m incredibly proud of the team we’ve built over the years. Our strong focus on investing in young talent through apprenticeships has not only helped shape skilled professionals, but has also fostered a culture of loyalty and dedication,” said Richard Derrick. “It’s rewarding to see so many of our people grow with the Company. Their expertise and commitment are at the heart of our continued success.”
The team of technical sales engineers, sourcing specialists and customer service advisors, deliver a single-source logistics solutions across the UK and internationally, supporting projects in more than 120 countries across five continents, offering rapid delivery and tailored supply strategies.
With global electricity demand predicted to more than double by 2050, Thorne and Derrick International are strengthening and extending their world class supply chain to support grid-scale projects to drive our sustainable energy future towards net zero through renewable energy, digitalisation and decarbonisation of industry.
Thorne & Derrick International are the UK’s leading distributors of High Voltage Power Cable Accessories and Hazardous Area Electrical supporting critical infrastructure across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, petrochemical and process sectors. With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial markets.
Thorne & Derrick International are UK based and are the leading specialist distributors of LV, MV and HV cable accessories and tooling from 600V to 132kV complemented by an extensive range of hazardous area certified electrical equipment (ATEX and IECEx) to provide compliant, safe and optimised power, heating and lighting. Thorne and Derrick International supports critical infrastructure projects across power, utilities, rail, construction, oil & gas, marine, and process industries. With over 40 years of industry expertise, Thorne & Derrick International delivers trusted products, technical support, and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the energy and industrial process markets.
Published 12 Mar 2026
Compound Box Filling Compound end boxes rarely get attention — until one fails. Across ageing networks, replacement of compound-filled end boxes is becoming more frequent, particularly where original insulation systems have deteriorated and air insulation is not practical because...
Published 06 Mar 2026
Nexans 240–300mm² Multi-Joint – Medium Voltage Cable Joint Installation Medium voltage cable jointing requires reliability, consistency and safe installation practices. The Nexans 240–300mm² Multi-Joint is designed to simplify medium voltage jointing while maintaining high electrical performance for demanding power...
