Q: Is there an OSHA standard that mandates extension cords cannot be plugged into each other?
We had a client once comment: “I have been reading about plugging extension cords. I want to make sure when I go on one of our sites and say, ‘You can’t plug one cord into another’ that I can give a reason why.
Thank you.“
A: OSHA has two Letters of Interpretation that discuss extension cords:
In a letter dated September 28, 2015, OSHA references 1926.403(b)(2) – Installation and Use. Part of the letter’s answer clearly states that “OSHA will continue to enforce the listing, labeling, or certification requirements as outlined in 29 CFR 1926.403(b)(2) – Installation and use. That provision requires that listed, labeled, or certified (i.e., approved) equipment be used in accordance with the instructions included in the listing, labeling, or certification.”
A second letter, dated November 18, 2002 references 1910.303(b)(2): “Listed or labeled equipment shall be installed and used in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling…For example, the UL Directory contains instructions that require UL-listed RPTs to be directly connected to a permanently installed branch circuit receptacle; they are not to be series-connected to other RPTs or connected to extension cords.”
Zarheer is a contributor to the NFPA 70E, has published several journal transactions, chaired electrical safety standards, and holds a Master Degree in Electrical Engineering. Read more about Zarheer.
Thanks for a great article on daisy chaining extension cords. Applies to outlet/power strips as well. Be Safe Steve