need to consider an important element of electrical safety in the workplace — the safe use of extension cords. The most important thing to remember is that extension cords are for temporary use only (up to 90 days in General Industry workplaces).
In general, extension cords should not exceed 100 feet in length. However, by plugging one extension cord into another, the maximum cord length can be easily exceeded. If the job requires more than a 100-foot distance, a temporary power distribution box is required.
The maximum length of an extension cord is set at 100-feet by OSHA standards. Any worksite that needs a longer extension must put a temporary power distribution box in place.
Wrapping Up
No, extension cords do not use electricity when they are plugged in but not in use. However, there are potential dangers associated with leaving extension cords plugged in, such as fire hazards, shocks, and trip and fall hazards. So it's always best to unplug them when they're not in use.
Connecting two or more extension leads together (sometimes known as 'daisy-chaining) is unsafe for several reasons. Only use one extension lead per socket and never plug an extension lead into another extension lead.
Larger appliances, such as microwaves and refrigerators, may not be plugged into a power strip or extension cord. Such appliances must be plugged directly into a properly installed outlet.
If any part of the extension cord is hot while in use, it is a warning sign that it may be overloaded. Check if the extension cord is properly rated for the products that are plugged into it. Also, inspect the cord along its entire length to ensure it has not been damaged.
An improperly sized extension cord can cause a tool or appliance motor to burn out if allowed to run for too long. It can also cause a dangerous situation if it overheats.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends unplugging electrical devices when not in use, predicated on the obvious but nevertheless correct observation that something unplugged can't start fires or shock someone.
Using extension cords
Never use indoor extension cords outdoors. Don't plug multiple cords together. Don't run extension cords under rugs or furniture. Never tape extension cords to floors or attach them to surfaces with staples or nails.
Extension cord lengths determine the cord's power capacity. Every extra foot of cord increases the electrical resistance. This decreases the power the cord can deliver to connected devices. For best results, use the shortest extension cord possible.
Do not run extension cords through walls or ceilings because they may overheat, creating a fire hazard. Avoid damaging a cord's insulation by making sure your cords are not pinched in doors and windows or under heavy furniture. Keep in mind that damaged cords can pose a risk of electric shock and create a fire hazard.
If there is damage to an extension cord or power strip, that can certainly cause your breakers to trip. It can also be a significant safety risk if there is any exposed electrical wire. However, your extension cord or power strips could be perfectly fine and yet still be the cause of your problems.
DON'T plug extensions cords together.
It may be tempting to just string them together, but resist the temptation. Extending the length of an extension cord by “daisy-chaining” can lead to overheating the cord by overloading it, creating a serious fire hazard.
Although outdoor extension cords are tough, you still must not leave them outside for more than a day or two. Leaving this outside for an extended period will make your cord susceptible to breaking down, which can result in sparking, fire, and shock.
Don't plug too many devices
Plugging too many devices can overload the circuit. Treat extension cords as standard electrical outlets. Have up to two low-draw devices plugged at the same time. Also, don't plug the second device if the first one is a high-draw one (such as a heater).
Never use a cord that feels hot or is damaged in any way. Touching even a single exposed strand can give you an electric shock or burn. Never use three-prong plugs with outlets that only have two slots for the plug.
Extension cords vary in rating, based upon the amperage they can safely carry and the wattage they can handle—both of which are determined by the gauge of the wire. The amperage rating for each extension cord should be labeled on a tag attached to each cord, but this label may not always be present or visible.
A common misunderstanding is how many appliances can be plugged into an extension lead. For example, just because the lead has 4 sockets, it doesn't mean you can plug in 4 appliances. You should only plug in 4 appliances if their combined power draw is no more than the capabilities of the adaptor.
We strongly recommend that an extension cord not be used with any refrigeration appliances (refrigerator, freezer, compact refrigerator, ice machine, beverage center, etc.) due to the potential safety hazards under certain conditions.
How Do You Know How Many Things You Can Plug Into One Outlet? As a rule of thumb, it's safest to stick to a maximum load of 1,500 watts per outlet or circuit. The number of things you can plug into one outlet depends on the wattage of each device or appliance you want to plug in.
Never overload an extension lead by plugging in appliances that together will exceed the maximum current rating stated for the extension lead. This could cause the plug in the wall socket to overheat and possibly cause a fire.
Extension cords are insulated and have no electrical parts to damage with water. However, if water drenches the metal prongs or enters the plug outlet, it could cause a short, a fire, or electrocution for the person who touches it. Never use an indoor extension cord outdoors.
No, not worth the risk. It is against the National Electrical Code to connect extension cord wiring through a hole or opening in a wall, inside a dropped ceiling or under flooring.