Daisy chain extension cord osha the Mfg suggests that you do not daisy chain cords In the USA daisy chaining power strips and surge protectors violates OSHA regulations and invalidates the UL listing of the devices. A long-standing safety concern of Electrical Safety First is the practice of “daisy chaining”, whereby short extension leads are plugged into one another in order to increase the access range from the wall socket. Ī. A GFCI compares current on the way out of and on the way OSHA Standard. 5 x 1. What is Daisy Chaining? Daisy chaining is the practice of connecting multiple power strips or extension cords together. Even Suzie can’t daisy-chain one daisy. Store extension cords indoors in a clean and dry environment Unplug when not in use DON’T: Plug a power strip and/or extension cord into another power strip and/or extension cord – commonly referred to as “daisy chain”. Bad placement. Cheaper extension cords, although still 12-gauge, have a fairly thin outer jacket which may allow the interior wires to flex and twist, creating broken wire filaments. Jan 23, 2017 · Work less than 100 feet away from source of power so only one 100 foot extension cord is needed. ) # Approved cords m ust be for tem porary use only (no m ore than 90 days) and explosions. 1926. See full list on ehs. Take your pick – all are common mistakes when it comes to using extension cords. Store all extension cords indoors, free of kinks and twists. Feb 28, 2022 · Daisy-chaining is when you plug a power strip or extension cord into another power strip or extension cord, often in a series of three or more such devices. 403(b)(2). Always make sure to use the right cord for the job, and check for damage or wear and tear before plugging in. And no hassle. Professional electricians keep opposing daisy-chaining because they have the law on their side. ALOVECO 2 PCS Power Extension Cord, 6. Don’t run extension cords through doors or windows. The ribbon extension cord is only rated for 7 amps, however; anything more will result in the cord being overheated. To prevent electrical fires in the workplace, follow the Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and the National Electrical Code because doing so can cause them to become overloaded, which could lead to their failure and a possible fire. Found Frequently Daisy chains and mixed daisy Electrical Safety- Daisy Chaining Environmental Health & Safety University Health Services, Suite 002 Telephone: (405) 744-7241 Fax: (405) 744-7148 Revision Date: October 2023 Introduction “Daisy chaining” is the connection of two or more extension cords or power strips. Abnett, ASP Senior Safety Engineer Middle River Aircraft Systems 103 Chesapeake Park Plaza Baltimore, MD 21220 Dear Mr. However, it’s important to use extension cords properly. Extension cords are everywhere in the modern workplace but we forget the risks. Plugging two extension cords into each other reduces their current Apr 20, 2018 · During inspections, power taps that are plugged into other power taps (daisy-chained) should be removed, because such arrangement is prohibited. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. Additionally, you shouldn't daisy chain them with extension cords, either, because that is also a risk. Don’t overheat an extension cord. appliance indoors or outdoors. You’ve heard the old adage “a chain is only as strong as its weakest link,” right? Well, every connection point in an electrical circuit (including Jan 21, 2025 · An extension cord's construction can't adequately handle the consistent energy load of appliances, so they may eventually overheat, spark, and catch on fire. power source — with an electrical plug or a permanent wire. 303 – (Electrical) general. OSHA notes also that UL 817, Standard for Cord Sets and Power-Supply Cords, provides that an extension cord set be provided with a tear resistant warning tag that is substantially identical to the example you provided with your letter. Don’t drive over, stand or place anything on top of an extension cord. What To Look For: Extension cord is warm to the touch, discolored or has burnt smell. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration Salt Lake City Technical Center 1781 South 300 West Salt Lake City, UT 84165-0200 Dear Mr. Find safe alternatives instead. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission says 4,000 people go to the emergency room each year for extension cord injuries and 50 die annually from electrical fires caused by overloaded or damaged cords. This refers to interconnecting multiple power strips and/or extension cords. Daisy chaining. 303(B) (2) of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (also 1926. Jul 22, 2016 · Learn about electrical fire safety, power strips, and NFPA guidelines to prevent hazards and ensure compliance with Fire Code standards. Extension cords shall not be fastened with staples, hung from nails, or suspended by wire. Any cords in place over 90 days are considered permanent wiring. Rule #5: Always unplug your extension cord when you’re finished using it. Extension . By always pulling the plug directly, you help preserve the integrity and safety of the extension cord for continued, reliable use. Rick Cee Chairperson, OSHA-SLTC Safety Committee U. 3(B) of the National Electric Code and 29CFR 19. ends, and other damage. 303(b) (2). When the jackeing of an extension cord is damaged or a ground plug is missing, employees are exposed a dangerous electrical haz-ard. cords (cord sets), cables, and electrical cords are types of flexible cords. Make sure the cord is rated for the device you’re using, and don’t plug multiple devices into the same extension cord. Mr. Extension cords that can be used outdoors will be clearly marked "Suitable for Use with Outdoor Appliances. Daisy chaining is like making a braid that keeps a cable tangle-free. Follow all safety codes, regulations, and standards according to OSHA, NFPA, and UL. The terms flexible cords, extension cord, cables and electrical cords all refer to a type of flexible cord. Exposed wiring. Aug 27, 2024 · Advantages of Daisy Chaining Extension Cords. 4 out of 5 stars 66 Jan 2, 2006 · Power strips also cannot be used with extension cords (constitutes a daisy chain extension cord). GFCIs, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, disconnect power if a potentially dangerous situation occurs. This frequently happens in older homes or offices where there are not enough outlets for the space. okstate. 8 (1) prohibits daisy chains, because the first extension cord (or power strip) is now acting as a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure. Don’t daisy-chain extension cords Apr 5, 2011 · A 46,000 sq foot building site has the steel skeleton up with the 2nd floor deck serving as a porous roof. Don’t plug a three-prong into a two-hole extension cord. Overload cords with more than the proper electrical load. A recent OSHA standard of interpretation references and confirms the application of Flexible cords and cables are used to connect electrical equipment to a . This is a term that refers to power strips and/or extension cords being plugged into other power strips and/or extension cords. 2. Unfortunately, once in place, extension cords tend to become permanent wiring and a fire hazard. The emphasis needs to be on safety when using a power strip and/or an extension cord. Feb 21, 2025 · Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords. edu If a power strip or cord-connected RPT is connected or “daisy chained” to another power strip or cord-connected RPT – it violates the UL listing and is not in compliance with OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910. Don’t force a plug into an outlet. This is mainly a problem for businesses as a fire caused by a failure in a daisy-chained setup may result in both an OSHA fine and a denial of insurance coverage for damages from the fire. (See the Office of Compliance “Extension Cords” Fast Facts for more information) Figure 1: Daisy Chain—Interconnected extension cords Daisy Chaining Found Frequently Daisy Sep 28, 2015 · This would be a violation of 29 CFR 1926. 403 & 1910. (See the Office of Compliance “Extension Cords” Fast Facts for more information) Daisy Chaining . chaining increases the risk of fire due to overloading circuits. Potential Hazard: Overloaded extension cord can cause an electrical fire. 5ft/2M per Cord, 3. Here are some of the main benefits: Extended Reach: The primary advantage of daisy chaining extension cords is the ability to extend the reach of power beyond the length of a single Jan 24, 2020 · This blog discusses fundamental electrical safety requirements outlined in the Fire Code to ensure safe and compliant electrical installations. These cords can have an electrical plug to connect to a power source or can be permanently wired into the power source. 405(a)(2)(ii)(G) Portable electric lighting used in wet and/or other conductive locations, as for example, drums, tanks, and vessels, shall be operated at 12 volts or less. 6 to 8 drills are plugged in at one time. 4 duplex (GFCI) outlets are wired in a wall by the entrance. Yep, an extension cord can kill and cause destruction. Remedy: o Make sure that extension cord ratings are at least as high as the appliances they power (use an extension cord with the same or larger wire size as the equipment/appliance cord). You can follow the detailed guide below to learn how to daisy chain an extension cord. These devices are only approved to provide power to a specific number of electrical appliances, and daisy chaining them increases that number and creates a potential fire risk. Just skip the cords altogether. As bob posted ( we live in a FREE country we can plug what ever we want into them…lol ) Discussion: Relocatable power taps (RPT) (also know as strip plugs, power strips, etc) and are for use Jul 21, 2019 · No, it is not. Similar to connecting the stems on daisies to make a chain, someone connected two extension cords together. Electric equipment shall be free from recognized hazards Jun 25, 2023 · Extension cords are designed to provide power to a single device, so they are less likely to overload the circuit. Missing ground prongs. Outdoor extension cords are made with thicker insulation to withstand the elements. Additionally, OSHA’s regulations only allow extension cords to be used as temporary wiring for up to 90 days. Ways to protect yourself around extension cords include: • Don’t connect (daisy chain) cords to extend length. 1910. 405(g) Electrical Safety: Safety and Health for Electrical Trades Student Manual. These regulations are contained in Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations (T8CCR). Nov 19, 2018 · Does OSHA mandate extension cords cannot be plugged into each other? OSHA references 1926. This will help to prolong the life of the cord and will also prevent accidental fires. A ribbon extension cord cannot be used in commercial or industrial type settings. Extension Cords. S. We’re in a wireless world, after all. Remember that daisy chaining power strips together is not safe for many reasons. Jun 21, 2022 · Use an indoor extension cord outdoors. This violates safety regulations. Article 110. Mar 28, 2024 · Furthermore, daisy-chaining power strips and extension cords create a daisy-chain effect, compounding the risk of overloading and creating a hazardous situation. This techni…. Never use a damaged extension cord. Basic Electrical Safety INSPECT cords and plugs to ensure proper working condition. Are you sick of having tangled extension cords? This video teaches you how to daisy chain an extension cord so you don't have to worry about tangles ever ag Oct 6, 2023 · But, as with all things electrical, safety is paramount. Daisy chains and mixed daisy chains constitute some of the most common violations identified during Naval Occupational Safety and Health (NAVOSH) inspections. Jan 28, 2025 · One of the most popular methods currently used by many electricians is the daisy chain. They are using corded drills to screw pre formed panels for the walls. The power source should be located no more than 100 feet from the operation. May 31, 2016 · Ken, can 2 extension cords connected together (daisy chain) be used temporarily? does OSHA prevent this say for like an hour or so? Ken Sellars February 3, 2021 Reply Any daisy chaining of cords will violate their listing per UL 817. 405, Wiring methods, components, and equipment for general use. Cal/OSHA regulations for electrical safety? Cal/OSHA regulations on electrical safety require California employers to provide workers with a safe and healthful workplace. Cal/OSHA and the Office of the State Fire Marshal. It also allows easy unraveling, where you only need to pull the loop to loosen the wrap. If you decided to daisy chain extension cords or power strips, it is crucially important to NOT load past the ampacity of the primary extension cord (the first one from the wall outlet). But in this week’s picture, we have a different kind of daisy chain. Do Not Exceed Ampacity. Use and Care Extension cords are designed for temporary use Oct 14, 2024 · Contractors are not permitted to daisy chain or connect multiple extension cords to one another. Don’t drag an extension cord. Relocatable power taps are for temporary use and should not take the place of permanently installed receptacles. U. When using an extension cord, check the amps required to power the needed device, equipment, or tool against the extension cord’s rating. Follow the intended use per the manufacturer’s instructions. Permanently Secured Power Strips Feb 27, 2019 · NFPA 70-2011, Article 400. Flexible cords and cables are typically used to connect electrical equipment to a power source. Perform work with battery operated tools/equipment. Portable cord- and plug-connected equipment and flexible cord sets (extension cords) shall be visually inspected before use on any shift for external defects (such as loose parts, deformed and missing pins, or damage to outer jacket or insulation) and for evidence of possible internal damage (such as pinched or crushed outer jacket). Never overload an extension cord or daisy-chain multiple cords together, as this can create a fire hazard. Don’t cover an extension cord with anything. Even something as simple as using household-grade cords at work creates an hazardous condiion. This practice is strictly prohibited by. " Never use an indoor extension cord outdoors; it could result in an electric shock or fire hazard. Jun 3, 2024 · It is important to note that most extension cords are not rated for continuous usage. Abnett: Jan 11, 2024 · Daisy-Chaining . 8 (1) says: “…flexible cords and cables shall not be used …as a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure”. This can be dangerous to both your safety and your high value electrical equipment. 2009-113, (March 2009). It’s crucial to always plug power strips directly into a wall outlet, ensuring that they’re not overloaded and can safely distribute power to connected devices. Sep 29, 2022 · Rule #4: When using an extension cord outdoors, make sure that it is rated for outdoor use. Force a plug into an outlet. Administration (OSHA) regulations and the National Electrical Code because doing so can cause them to become overloaded, leading to their failure and a possible fire. Not to mention, every extension cord can vary in its capacity, so you may select a light-duty extension cord to run a heavy-duty appliance, which could be a disaster if the cord gets too hot. DO NOT USE DAMAGED, worn, frayed, split cords, or plugs missing ground pins or cracked. Take a look. Add more electrical junction boxes. [58 FR 35179, June 30, 1993; 61 FR 9227, March 7, 1996; 61 FR 41738, August 12, 1996] Scroll to Top Nov 18, 2002 · November 18, 2002 Wade R. Each letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Jul 6, 2022 · They are intended to be directly connected to a permanently installed branch-circuit receptacle outlet only, and not intended to be plugged into an extension cord or series connected (daisy chained) to other relocatable power taps. Daisy chain, or connect, multiple power strips together. More boxes, more convenience. Daisy chaining is usually a result of inadequate # Daisy chaining (plugging one extension cord into another and another, etc. So NFPA 70-2011, Article 400. Nov 9, 2017 · Tech Bulletin: Extension Cord Safety. OSHA’s electrical standards are designed to protect employees and minimize risk of serious injury from unsafe equipment, environment, and work practices. Daisy. Most of the electrical health and safety regulations can be found in T8CCR, Chapter Nov 18, 2002 · OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards, and regulations. A 20 amp Oct 24, 2024 · Don’t daisy-chain extension cords: Avoid connecting multiple extension cords together, as this can significantly reduce their efficiency and increase the risk of overheating, electrical failure, or fire. Mustard, in the library with an exten sion cord. 403 (B)(2)) oppose daisy-chaining. A daisy chain in electrical wiring refers to the practice of connecting multiple devices or fixtures in a series using a single power source. Additional cord extension should never cause Jul 1, 2016 · The other option is using GFCIs. Apr 5, 2011 · OSHA doesn't care how long the extension cord is, unless the cord's being used contrary to its UL listing. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. Drive over an Oct 9, 2017 · The emphasis needs to be on safety when using a power strip and/or an extension cord. ) # Using one surge protector/power strip to power another Basic Guidelines for the Appropriate Use of Extension Cords # Cords m ust be properly approved (by Underwriters Laboratory, etc. If you are working outdoors purchase an outdoor rated extension cord – it’s a small price to pay for safety. Run extension cords through doorways, holes in ceilings, walls or floors. Cee: Daisy Chain Power Strip Codes. 35mm DC Extension Wire, IP65 Waterproof, Perfect for Daisy Chain Wiring LED Landscape Lights 4. Move, bend or modify any of the extension cord plug’s metal parts. Daisy Chain an Extension Cord: Keep your extension cords easy to use - a daisy chain is both easy to 'assemble' for quick and neat storage, and it's easy to undo so that you can use the extension cord at the drop of a hat (and not worry about frustrating knots). Jun 11, 1993 · June 11, 1993 Mr. Feb 3, 2025 · When you were young, did you pick daisies and try to string them together to make a chain? I did. 6. Summary of requirements. What could be wrong with an If a power strip or cord-connected RPT is connected or “daisy chained” to another power strip or cord-connected RPT – it violates the UL listing and is not in compliance with OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910. Damaged extension cords should be repaired to meet the manufacturer’s original standards or be discarded. Temporary lights shall not be suspended by their electric cords unless cords and lights are designed for this means of suspension. This dramatically increases the risks of socket overload and electric shock, and can also place excessive It is also crucial to ensure proper grounding and appropriate wire sizing when setting up a daisy chain to maintain electrical safety standards. Don’t use an extension cord when it’s wet. The Purpose of a Daisy Chain. Use a single, appropriately rated cord for the task. Extension cords in particular can pose a risk if they're not used properly. Jul 4, 2023 · This, in turn, can create a hazardous situation where the cord may not perform safely, increasing the risk of electrical shorts or fires. Such an arrangement violates National Electrical Code (NEC) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations because the strip or wall receptacle may become overloaded, resulting in failure or fire. 303 in Letters of Interpretation. Using a daisy chain extension cord setup offers several advantages that make it a practical choice in many situations. ylqeqsighqwjobqsgqmfydfrayymdjwlybyzrqypwohzkboxliwdswvxuzdxvrwomuujbiyzmfb