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eTools Home : Construction Users Guide | Glossary | Bibliography | Viewing / Printing Inst. | Credits Electrical Falls Struck-By Trenching Scope SH Program Electrical Incidents: Improper Use of Extension and Flexible Cords Am I In Danger? The normal wear and tear on extension and flexible cords at your site can loosen or expose wires, creating hazardous conditions [for additional information, see Flexible Cords]. Cords that are not 3-wire type, not designed for hard-usage, or that have been modified, increase your risk of contacting electrical current. How Do I Avoid Hazards? Use factory-assembled cord sets. Use only extension cords that are 3-wire type. Use only extension cords that are marked with a designation code for hard or extra-hard usage. Use only cords, connection devices, and fittings that are equipped with strain relief. Remove cords from receptacles by pulling on the plugs, not the cords. Continually audit cords on-site. Any cords found not to be marked for hard or extra-hard use, or which have been modified, must be taken out of service immediately. Additional Information: 29 CFR 1926.405, Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use. OSHA Standard. 1926.405(g)(1)(iii), Prohibited uses Electrical Contractors Industry. OSHA Safety and Health Topics Page. Provides information about the hazards that electrical workers may experience as a part of their jobs. Electrical Safety: Safety and Health for Electrical Trades Student Manual. US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. 2002-123, (2002, January). These cords are improperly wired directly to the electrical circuit, are not protected by a GFCI, and are two-wire cords that are not grounded and not rated for hard- or extra-hard service. Improper Use of Extension and Flexible Cords eTools Home : Construction Users Guide | Glossary | Bibliography | Viewing / Printing Inst. | Credits

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