Electrical Safety
OSHA’s First Arc Flash Safety Update in 20 Years — What It Means for You
August 12th, 2025
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.”
Electrical Safety Myth-Busting & Best Practices
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?
Myth-Busting Electrical Safety
- Myth: De-energized equipment is automatically safe.
Reality: Without proper lockout/tagout, dangerous energy may remain. - Myth: Low-voltage systems cannot cause arc flash.
Reality: Arc flashes can happen at relatively low voltages — OSHA now requires appropriate PPE for energized work above 50 V.
“Any energized work above 50 V requires appropriate PPE — low voltage doesn’t mean no hazard.”
Defining Arc Flash Boundaries
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.
- Limited Approach Boundary — safe distance for unqualified workers.
- Restricted Approach Boundary — qualified workers with PPE only.
- Arc Flash Boundary — distance where incident energy reaches 1.2 cal/cm², enough to cause second-degree burns.
Raising aRC fLASH Hazard Awareness
- Inspect for damaged equipment before work.
- Always verify de-energization and follow lockout/tagout.
- Wear correctly rated arc flash PPE based on the hazard assessment.
Protecting eLECTRICAL Workers
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.
How CBS ArcSafe Helps
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.
- Remote racking & switching solutions
- Arc flash & power system studies
- Field services & equipment maintenance
- Extensive inventory of low- & medium-voltage equipment
“Safety starts before the spark.”
Remote Racking Systems
Universal Rotary Remote Racking System CBS ArcSafe RRS-1
A versatile remote racking system designed for safe and reliable operation of low, medium, and high voltage circuit breakers.
Lightweight Rotary Remote Racking System CBS ArcSafe RRS-1 LT
Compact and lightweight remote racking system ideal for confined spaces and quick deployment in the field.
Dual-Mode Rotary Remote Racking System CBS ArcSafe RRS-4
Features dual operational modes for enhanced flexibility and safety in remote racking applications.
Partner with Thorne & Derrick
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.
Electrical Safety for Low & High Voltage Power Systems
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
Why Should You Separate Electrical Cables?
July 22nd, 2025
Separating electrical cables
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
Cable Management Practices
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.
PENTA MTAG | Enhancing Rail Safety with High Voltage Detectors
July 21st, 2025
PENTA MTAG
High Voltage Detector
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).
What is Penta MTAG?
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.
Key Features
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Non-contact high voltage detection
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Automatic activation when magnetically attached to the conductor
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Failsafe warning system with high-visibility LED lights and audible alerts
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Rugged, compact design built for the rail environment
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Lightweight and easy to deploy in seconds
Engineered for safety in real-world conditions
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
A game-changer for railway maintenance
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.
Designed with the user in mind
“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.
Why Choose PENTA?
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.
Thorne & Derrick – Your Rail Safety Partner
We supply the full range of PENTA products including:
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MTAG High Voltage Detectors
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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.
Dropped Objects & How To Prevent Them
June 10th, 2025
Prevent Dropped Objects
To prevent dropped objects it is recommended to implement a multifaceted approach that includes physical barriers, tool tethering, proper storage, training and regular inspections. This strategy aims to minimize the risk of objects falling from height and causing harm or damage – we welcome your Enquiries for workplace products that prevent dropped objects and mitigate risk to plant and personnel.
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Toeboards & Handrails
Ensure these are securely fixed on scaffolding, platforms and walkways to prevent objects from falling through gaps.
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Netting
Utilize safety mesh or rated barrier netting in areas where objects might fall, especially around walkways, platforms, and building perimeters.
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Catch Platforms
Consider using temporary roofing, floor fabrics, or other means to shield workers below from falling objects.
Dropped Object Prevention | Netting is used to enclose objects at height to prevent them posing a dropped object risk.
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Tool Lanyards & Tethers
Secure tools and equipment using lanyards, tethers, pouches, holsters, and other drop containment devices.
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Proper Storage
When not in use, tools and materials should be properly stored and secured.
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Avoid Hanging Over Railings
Never hang or drape items over guardrails, as this can cause them to fall.
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Keep Tools and Materials Away from Edges
Maintain a safe distance (at least 3 feet) from any leading edges when tools and materials are not in use.
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Education on Risks
Train workers on the dangers of dropped objects and how to minimize the risk.
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Hazard Hunts
Conduct regular inspections and periodic “hazard hunts” to identify potential hazards.
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Housekeeping
Maintain high housekeeping standards to reduce the risk of loose objects falling.
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Regular InspectionsImplement a risk-based inspection plan to identify and address potential dropped object hazards.
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Inspection of EquipmentInspect equipment that is in continual use or difficult to access, especially after major stresses like adverse weather or collisions.
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Corrective Action
Document any nonconformities, assess their criticality, and implement corrective actions.
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Lowering Working Platforms
When possible, lower the working platform to ground level and lift the structure into position rather than taking tools and equipment to height.
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Using Mechanized Means
Utilize pulley systems, ropes, or tool bags and belts to move tools and materials, reducing hand-carrying.
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PPE
Ensure workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment (clothing and PPE), including hard hats and climbing helmets.
Cable Hooks | Reduce Slips, Trips & Falls from Trailing Cables
May 30th, 2025The Future of Cable Management – Trends & Innovations
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uploaded by Chris Dodds (Thorne & Derrick) with accreditation to CableSafe.
In the engineering landscape, staying ahead of things is crucial, especially when it comes to cable management. At CableSafe, with operations spanning the Netherlands and the USA, we’re dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions in cable safety, confined space safety, and dropped objects prevention. Let’s delve into the future of cable management, examining emerging trends and exciting innovations shaping the industry.
Efficient cable organization is essential for optimizing workflows and minimizing hazards in industrial settings. Traditional methods often involve cumbersome cable trays and racks, but advancements in cable management solutions are simplifying the process. Products like CableSafe Safety Hooks Extreme and Cable Guards provide simple yet effective solutions for keeping cables organized and secure, reducing clutter and potential safety risks.
Elevated cable management solutions like CableSafe Cable Stands and Cable Bridge further streamline operations by minimizing tripping hazards and facilitating easier access for maintenance personnel. These innovations not only improve electrical safety but also contribute to overall efficiency on the job site.
As technology continues to advance, ensuring cable safety remains a top priority. CableSafe is dedicated to developing robust cable protection systems that mitigate risks and prevent accidents. Whether it’s through innovative cable guards or durable safety hooks, our products are designed to withstand the rigors of industrial environments while keeping workers safe.
Trailing Cable Safety
The Safety Hook Extreme is an advanced specification and high performance version of the standard industrial cable hook manufactured with glass reinforced PBT and is UV stabilized, Flame Retardant (Class: 94V-0, Flame Class Rating 3) and Cold Weather rated.
CableSafe Hooks
Looking ahead, the future of cable safety lies in proactive prevention measures and advanced monitoring technologies. By investing in smart solutions that detect potential hazards before they escalate, companies can minimize downtime and maximize productivity while safeguarding their workforce.
Every industry has its own unique challenges when it comes to cable management. From offshore oil rigs, wind turbines and to manufacturing facilities, CableSafe understands the importance of tailored solutions for elevating trailing cables. Our customizable products are designed to meet the specific needs of diverse industries, from corrosion-resistant materials for marine applications to fire-retardant coatings for high-risk environments.
As we look to the future, CableSafe remains committed to driving innovation and excellence in temporary, permanent and trailing cable management. By embracing emerging trends and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, we’re shaping the industry for the better. With our customizable solutions and unwavering dedication to safety, we’re empowering companies to create safer, more efficient workplaces for their employees.
Should you require any further information about improving Electrical & Cable Safety in your workplace, contact Thorne & Derrick.
Further Reading
