Fire Safety Tips
Extension Cords
Extension cords, also refereed to as convenience cords; are intended to be used as a temporary supply to portable electrical devices. The Fire Codes state:
Extension cords shall not be used as a substitute for permanent wiring and shall not be affixed to structures; extended through walls, ceilings, floors, under floors or floor coverings; or be subjected to environmental or physical damage.
With temporary electrical wiring the time period is defined by the authority having jurisdiction and, installed in a manner or means as approved by the authority having jurisdiction. We typically allow the use of extension cords as temporary power for periods not to exceed 180 days in a calendar year and installed in a manner approved by site electricians.
Extension cords are approved for use during manufacturing process where permanent wiring is not possible.
Prior to placing any extension cord in use you should:
- Make certain that the cord is rated for the ampacity and voltage for the intended use.
- Ensure that the ground prong (round pin) is in place.
- Check the cord for damage to the outer insulation and for flat spots or pinched points on the cord.
After placing the extension cord in use:
- Keep the cord out of walking paths, doorways or other areas where it may be subjected to physical damage.
- Place your hand on the cord while it is in use. If the cord is hot, remove it from use immediately - the cord is over capacity.
- Shut down the equipment being power by the cord, prior to unplugging the cord from an outlet.
- Never unplug and extension cord by pulling on the cord. Grab it by the plug and wiggle it back and forth to free it from the outlet.
