POWER CORDS Power tools are widely used on construction sites. Flexible extension cords are often necessary to provide electricity to the tool. Due to the very reasons they are used, they are more susceptible to damage than fixed wiring. Approximately three people die each day in electricallyrelated incidences. Many of these injuries are related to problems with electrical outlets, power cords and extension cords. Safe Work Practices and Tips: • Inspect all extension cords daily for damage and missing grounding prongs. • Protect extension cords from damage. • Never use a metal outlet box as an extension cord. • Never use Romex or non-metallic cable as extension cords. • Avoid using staples and nails to hold extension cords in place. • Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to protect against any electrical fault. • Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis, unplug and safely store them after every use. • Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way. Touching just one exposed strand can cause an electric shock or burn. • Make sure extension cords are properly rated for their intended use and meet or exceed the power needs of the appliance or tool being used. • If an extension cord is needed for a longer period of time, temporary power taps can be used when insufficient electrical receptacles are available. • Ensure that all extension cords are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL, CSA. or ETL. • Keep extension cords out of high traffic areas like doorways or walkways where they pose a tripping hazard. • Never run extension cords through walls or ceilings. This may cause the cord to overheat, creating a serious fire hazard

1. POWER CORDS
Power tools are widely used on construction sites. Flexible extension cords are often necessary
to provide electricity to the tool. Due to the very reasons they are used, they are more
susceptible to damage than fixed wiring. Approximately three people die each day in electrically-
related incidences. Many of these injuries are related to problems with electrical outlets, power
cords and extension cords.
Safe Work Practices and Tips:
• Inspect all extension cords daily for damage and missing grounding prongs.
• Protect extension cords from damage.
• Never use a metal outlet box as an extension cord.
• Never use Romex or non-metallic cable as extension cords.
• Avoid using staples and nails to hold extension cords in place.
• Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to protect against any electrical
fault.
• Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis, unplug and safely store them after
every use.
• Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way. Touching just one exposed strand
can cause an electric shock or burn.
• Make sure extension cords are properly rated for their intended use and meet or exceed the
power needs of the appliance or tool being used.
• If an extension cord is needed for a longer period of time, temporary power taps can be used
when insufficient electrical receptacles are available.
• Ensure that all extension cords are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such
as UL, CSA. or ETL.
• Keep extension cords out of high traffic areas like doorways or walkways where they pose a
tripping hazard.
• Never run extension cords through walls or ceilings. This may cause the cord to overheat,
creating a serious fire hazard