According to NFPA 70E 205.4, how should maintenance, tests, and inspections be handled?

Maintenance, tests, and inspections should be documented to provide a clear and detailed record of what has been performed. Documentation is critical in ensuring compliance with safety regulations, including NFPA 70E, as it establishes a traceable history of maintenance activities, helping to verify that equipment has been properly maintained and that safety protocols are being followed. This documentation can be valuable for audits, training, and continuous improvement processes.

Additionally, thorough documentation ensures that any findings, actions taken, and follow-up requirements are clearly communicated amongst team members and can serve as a reference for future inspections or maintenance tasks. It helps in identifying recurring issues that may need to be addressed proactively rather than reactively.

While other methods of handling maintenance, tests, and inspections might seem feasible, relying on random performance, verbal communication, or only addressing issues in emergencies can lead to lapses in safety and oversight. Such practices would not align with the systematic and proactive approach that NFPA 70E promotes for ensuring electrical safety in the workplace.