What is NFPA 70B?
In 2023, it transitioned from a “recommended practice” to a full standard, making compliance essential for organizations that want to reduce electrical risk, improve safety, and meet insurance and regulatory requirements.
Infrared inspections performed by Cascade Thermal Imaging help facilities demonstrate proactive compliance, support safety audits, and meet insurance and local regulatory expectations.
Infrared thermography is a key diagnostic tool for NFPA 70B compliance. By scanning electrical systems under load, thermographers detect overheating, loose connections, imbalanced loads, and failing components.
All electrical equipment must undergo thermal inspections at least annually, with higher-risk equipment (classified as Condition 3) inspected every six months
(Per NFPA 70B 2023 Edition – Table 9.2.2 Infrared Thermography Scope of Work).
Condition 3 equipment represents assets operating outside normal parameters—showing abnormal temperature rise, deterioration, or other critical anomalies requiring increased monitoring and timely corrective action.
These inspections provide actionable data that allows facilities to:
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Detect potential failures early
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Verify electrical systems are operating safely and efficiently
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Maintain compliance with NFPA 70B, NFPA 70E, and OSHA standards
Why Cascade Thermal Imaging?
- Proven Experience: Over 20 years conducting electrical systems infrared inspections
- Certified Experts: Level III Certified Master Thermographers with advanced training
- Actionable Reporting: Clear, audit-ready documentation aligned with NFPA 70B requirements
- Local Expertise: Headquartered in Redmond, WA and serving facilities throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska
- Risk Reduction: Detect problems early to minimize downtime, improve reliability, and enhance safety
Does the Updated NFPA 70B Standard Change Inspection Scope or Cost?
With NFPA 70B now recognized as an enforceable standard, many facility managers are asking whether IR inspection procedures, Arc Flash requirements, or pricing must change.
At Cascade Thermal Imaging, the answer is NO.
Cascade Thermal Imaging has always met — and in most cases exceeded — the thermography processes, certifications, and reporting standards outlined in NFPA 70E, NFPA 70B, and adheres to the Infraspection Institute’s Standard for Infrared Inspection of Electrical Systems and Rotating Equipment.
There are no required alterations to our inspection methodology, and the updated NFPA 70B standard does not increase the cost of our infrared thermography inspection services. Arc Flash Studies remain a separate engineering service and do not alter the scope or pricing of CTI’s IR inspection programs.