Electrical Safety Program

Environmental Health and Safety

Electrocutions, injuries, and fires can all be prevented by understanding basic electrical safety principles and following safe practices. Awareness of electrical hazards is vital in reducing electrically related fires, injuries and deaths that occur every year.

Extension cords often are necessary for many activities and events. Because they are exposed, flexible, and unsecured, they are more susceptible to damage than fixed wiring. Hazards are created when cords, cord connectors, receptacles, and cord-and plug-connected equipment are improperly used and maintained. The following are the basic requirements when using extension cords for temporary use: Do not plug extension cords together. Only use an extension cord that is the correct length for each application. Extending the length of an extension cord by “daisy-chaining” more than one cord together can lead to overheating the cord by overloading it, creating a serious fire hazard. Do not create a trip hazard with an extension cord. Secure extension cord to the ground to prevent a trip hazard for pedestrians, however, do not use metal staples or nails to secure the cord. Do not exceed the rating of the extension cord.