I've been talking to a ton of people about some power quality analysis and CT testing and they are all 100% certain that its fine to go into 480V panels hot with just some gloves, a face shield, and some FR clothes. Am I completely misinterpreting 70E as a legal requirement, or is much of the industry just in denial about it?

You are correct. I have been in several industrial facilities that do not have the generic arc flash labels on their switchgear or panels, much less FR clothing. I think it is an educational thing. We keep a close eye over the contractors that maintenance hires. Some of them are not familiar with 70E.

I would estimate that perhaps less than one percent of faciities are ascribing to the work of NFPA 70E. This standard will probably not be recognizable when it is eventually edited for the masses. I say that because I [color="black"][SIZE="4"]KNOW[/size][/color] what response will come from a farmer when he is told to suit up to turn on a 480V irrigation pump disconnect.

Probably correct. As well as I remember, 70E is about workplace safety dealing with employees. If it is his, I guess he can do whatever. After all, how is Mom going to sue him after he is gone?

I would say more like 10 or 20%, still not much but becoming more commonplace everyday.

As far as the farmer, 70E dosent apply to him, unless he is an employee as Alan stated.