Electrical power systems, like all complex systems, are prone to failures. These failures can arise from a wide range of causes, including improper work procedures, faulty or inadequately maintained equipment, or human error, among others. When an incident occurs—particularly one involving injury or worse—an investigation is an inevitable part of the process. Even seemingly minor incidents or near-misses warrant investigation. The purpose of these investigations is not only to determine the root cause but also to refine work practices, update operating procedures, and, in some cases, suggest design modifications.

Regarding incident investigations, NFPA 70E provides clear guidelines:

110.3 (J) Incident Investigations: The electrical safety program must include provisions for investigating electrical incidents.

An informational note further clarifies that electrical incidents encompass events that result in or have the potential to result in fatalities, injuries, or health damage. Even “close calls” or “near misses” should undergo investigation, as it is crucial to understand that, while luck may have intervened this time, next time it may not.

The Long History of Electrical Incident Investigations

Incident investigations, particularly in the context of electrical systems, are not a modern development. Their origins can be traced back centuries, although the technology and science behind modern electrical systems did not exist at that time. Lightning-related incidents, however, have been observed since the beginning of recorded history.

Bell Ringers and Life Expectancy

In ancient times, lightning was often interpreted through religious or philosophical lenses. Many cultures considered it to be a manifestation of divine wrath. It wasn’t until the Enlightenment period that a more scientific understanding of electricity and lightning began to emerge.

Prior to these advancements, various superstitions and protective measures were practiced in an attempt to shield people from the dangers of lightning. One such practice was the ringing of church bells during thunderstorms, which was believed to ward off lightning. However, it was observed that bell ringers, who were often physically tethered to large metal bells, had a significantly reduced life expectancy during storms. A 1784 German publication titled A Proof That the Ringing of Bells During Thunderstorms May Be More Dangerous Than Useful documented that lightning strikes had hit 386 church towers since 1750, resulting in the deaths of 121 bell ringers.

Electrical Investigations and Franklin’s Work

The study of lightning gained considerable momentum in the 18th century, largely due to the pioneering work of Benjamin Franklin. In 1749, Franklin began conducting a series of experiments focused on electricity, including static electricity and lightning. His famous kite experiment of 1752 demonstrated that lightning was, in fact, a form of electrical discharge.

Franklin’s scientific explorations quickly shifted toward practical applications for protecting buildings and people from lightning strikes. His solution was the lightning rod—a simple yet revolutionary device made of iron, typically 8 to 10 feet in length with a pointed end. Franklin’s invention proved highly effective, significantly reducing the number of lightning-related fatalities and injuries.

Legal Disputes and the Early Debate on Lightning Rods

Despite the success of the lightning rod, its safety and efficacy were subjects of controversy. In 1783, a legal case in France highlighted the ongoing debate over the device. A man named M. de Vissery had installed a lightning rod on his chimney, but the local alderman ordered its removal, arguing that it might attract lightning from the clouds and cause harm.

De Vissery appealed, and the case became a pivotal moment in the history of electrical science. The legal team raised two key questions: Were lightning rods beneficial or dangerous, and was the rod in question properly constructed? The alderman’s objections were based on flawed understanding of the underlying physics, as he had not consulted any scientific experts. This legal case played a critical role in shaping future lightning protection standards.

Today, NFPA 780 provides the required standards for the installation of lightning protection systems, safeguarding people and property from the risks associated with lightning. The story of the bell ringers and Franklin’s kite experiment serves as a foundation for our modern approach to lightning safety.

Learning from Mistakes

While it may sound cliché, the principle of learning from our mistakes is integral to the evolution of electrical safety. Electrical incident investigations have progressed significantly over the centuries, from early observations of lightning and bell ringers to today’s technical, data-driven approaches. Despite the differences in time and context, the objective has remained consistent: to understand the causes of incidents, assess their impact on people, and develop measures to enhance safety. NFPA 70E 110.3 (J) Incident Investigations exists for exactly that purpose.