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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
Extension cords should only be used temporarily. Protect young children by keeping them away from extension cords and unplugging the cords when not in use. Overheating can occur at the plug, at the socket, or over the entire length of the cord.
Extension Cord Time Limits
OSHA standards allow the use of an extension cord for a maximum of 90 days or 3 months. If you need to use the cord longer than that, you're required to create a more permanent solution and hardwire whatever you're plugging in. An extension cord is not a long-term solution.
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.
Voltage drop in an extension lead is most likely caused by excessive length for a given conductor csa. For example: A number of typical light duty extension cords joined together to run 100 metres, and supplying a 10 amp load could suffer a 47 volt voltage drop (loss). This means 240 – 47 = 193 volts.
Long cords that are undersized lose power and overheat. Eventually, these cords melt or blow out at their plug connections. Blown extension cords are serious fire hazards. It's OK to repair the cord with a replacement connection, but do not reuse it for the same application.
Manufacturers generally do not recommended cords for appliances that generate heat, and some cannot be used in wet locations. Also, most cords are not designed to be used for long periods of time with heavy loads, especially when left unattended or overnight.
Power Strips
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.
No - you should never run two extension cords together. 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.
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.
220/240V extension power cords are perfect for operating high-end power tools and appliances over an extended distance. Remember, you can safely connect a 15-ampere cord to a 20-amp receptacle, but you can't use a 20-amp cord on anything other than the right device.
The main difference between a power strip and an extension cord is their intended use. A power strip is used to add additional outlets from a single source. An extension cord is used to connect devices placed far from outlets.
Source: CPSC. Consumers should immediately stop using male-to-male extension cords, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, which said that the products can cause electrocution, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
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.
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. 100-foot extension cords are ideal for both continuous use equipment like running power from a generator or powering a compressor.
Don't plug extension cords into one another. Ensure extension cords are properly rated for their intended use, indoor or outdoor, and meet or exceed the power needs of the device being used. Keep all outdoor extension cords clear of snow and standing water.