Final answer:
NFPA 70E was devised to target electrical hazards in the workplace, ensuring compliance with OSHA standards. It encompasses preventative measures such as circuit breakers and the three-wire system to mitigate thermal and shock hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
NFPA 70E was originally developed at OSHA's request to address electrical hazards in the workplace. Its purpose is to help organizations manage electrical safety risks and to comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) standards. Employers are responsible for providing a safe work environment and must follow general health and safety regulations, which include preventing thermal and shock hazards.
Electrical safety systems and devices such as circuit breakers and fuses are designed to disrupt excessive currents and mitigate thermal hazards. The three-wire system, which includes live/hot, neutral, and earth/ground wires, is essential in guarding against both thermal and shock hazards, with the grounding of the neutral wire and the case of the appliance being a critical component. Understanding these safety measures is crucial for anyone working with or around electrical equipment.