ES : Electrical Extension Cord & Proper Usage

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Chapter : Electrical Safety

Electrical Extension Cord & Proper Usage

Every year many injuries associated with electric extension cords are treated in hospital emergency rooms. About half of the injuries involve fractures, lacerations, contusions or sprains from people tripping over extension cords. It also estimates that the most residential fires originate in extension cords every year, killing many people and injuring . The most frequent causes of such fires are short circuits, overloading, damage and/or misuse of extension cords.

Extension cords are commonly used without thinking about the potential risks involved. Please be aware that use of extension cords can be dangerous and safe work practices are necessary to prevent accidents and injuries

Two types of extension cords:

• Two wire extension cords are used for small appliances and should not be used in here.
• Three-wire, grounded extension cords are much safer and are to be used with power tools and for other temporary applications.

Extension cords are not intended to be used in place of permanent wiring, so notify your supervisor if you need additional outlets.

Inspection, use and care:  

Select extension cords that are rated for the electrical load and type of use, such as indoor vs. outdoor.

• Check cords regularly for cracks, tears, exposed wires, missing ground plugs, etc.
• Do not place cords under carpets or furniture and never string them through doorways, walls, windows, ceilings or floors.
• Do not fasten an extension cord to a wall— even though staples are sold for this purpose.
• Do not “daisy chain” extension cords together. Use one cord that’s long enough to do the job
• Never pull on the cord to disconnect it; instead remove it by the plug.
• Store cords safely when not in use.

Repairs:
Cord insulation and plugs are the primary protection against electrical shock. Both must remain in good condition at all times.

• Only a qualified person should make repairs on a cord. Wrapping the damaged section with electrical tape is not “repairing” the cord.
• Take damaged cords out of service, tag it for repair or replacement and advise your supervisor. New cords are available.
• When discarding a bad cord, cut the cord into several pieces to render it useless.

Trips and Falls:
Serious injury can result from tripping over an extension cord.

• Do not lay cords on the floor, in walkways, etc. Use good housekeeping to keep extension cords from becoming tripping hazards.
• Notify your supervisor if you need anything to help keep cords off the floor.

Some tips for use of extension cords:

• Use extension cords only when necessary and only on a temporary basis. Do not use extension cords in place of permanent wiring.
• Do not remove the prongs of an electrical plug. If plug prongs are missing, loose, or bent, replace the entire plug.
• Do not use an adapter or extension cord to defeat a standard grounding device. (e.g., Only place three-prong plugs in three-prong outlets; do not alter them to fit in a two-prong outlet.)
• Use extension cords that are the correct size or rating for the equipment in use. The diameter of the extension cord should be the same or greater than the cord of the equipment in use.
• 
  Only use cords rated for outdoor use when using a cord outside.
• Do not run cords above ceiling tiles or through walls.
• Keep electrical cords away from areas where they may be pinched and areas where they may pose a tripping or fire hazard (e.g., doorways, walkways, under carpet, etc.).
• Always inspect the cord prior to use to ensure the insulation isn't cut or damaged. Discard damaged cords, cords that become hot, or cords with exposed wiring.
• Never unplug an extension cord by pulling on the cord; pull on the plug.
• In locations where equipment be pushed against an extension cord where the cord joins the plug, use a special "angle extension cord" specifically designed for use in these instances.

Proper use of External Cords

 
An extension cord looks harmless, but most extension cords carry 110 volts of electricity, and 110 volts can kill. Extension cords, if not used correctly, can cause electric shock, fires (from overloading circuits), and even slipping and tripping hazards. 

Follow these tips for safe use:

1. Check that extension cords are correctly rated for the amount electricity they are to carry and are CE approved. Heavy commercial duty cords are the minimum recommended on any construction site.
2. Ensure that all extension cords are serviceable and free of exposed wiring and splices, frayed areas, and/or deteriorated insulation. Discard extension cords with broken wires or damaged insulation.
3. Connect only one device at a time to extension cords.
4. Use extension cords for temporary purposes, not for permanent installation. Where there is a permanent need for an electrical outlet, one should be installed. Always use ELCB/MCB with extension cords.
5. Do not tape or splice extension cords.
6. Do not place extension cords across walkways or doorways where they could pose a tripping hazard.
7. Do not place extension cords under carpets, under doors, or other locations that subject the cord to abrasion or other damage.
8. Do not drive any vehicle over extension cords

Conclusion:

Don’t risk your safety or the safety of others by using damaged extension cords or by using extension cords improperly.