NFPA 70E 225.3 requires a circuit breaker that has interrupted a fault approaching its interrupting rating to be inspected and tested.

• A. Inspected and Tested
• B. Replaced
• C. Deenergized
• D. Certified by a Licensed Electrician

Answer: (A)

When a circuit breaker has interrupted a fault that was close to its interrupting rating, there’s a real possibility of hidden damage to the breaker’s internal mechanisms, contacts, or trip system. NFPA 70E 225.3 requires that, in this situation, the breaker be inspected and tested before it’s placed back into service. This step checks for mechanical wear, deformation, or any deterioration that could affect reliable operation during a future fault. The goal is to verify that the breaker can still interrupt safely and trip correctly when needed, rather than assuming it’s fine or simply de-energizing it without a full check. Only if the inspection and tests reveal problems would replacement be necessary; otherwise, the appropriate action is to perform the prescribed inspection and testing. Certification by a licensed electrician isn’t the stated requirement of this clause, which focuses on performing the inspection and tests themselves.