Electrical safety when using temporary power

Temporary power is used on construction sites and throughout industry, including petrochemical facilities, for most maintenance, repair, remodeling, janitorial, landscaping, or any other activity that would require the use of extension cords. Extension cords are nothing new, they have been in use as a convenience since about the mid-1940s. They provide a convenient method of bringing temporary AC power to a device, equipment, or a power tool that is not located near a power outlet (receptacle). The great thing about extension cords is that they are available in various lengths, gauges and service duties that fit most temporary power needs. When temporary power is used for maintenance or construction, they are required to be protected by a ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI). The NEC, NFPA 70E, and OSHA all require the use of a GFCI whenever extension cords are connected to a temporary power source such as a temporary pole service, generator, or when connected to the permanent wiring of a building. If used improperly extension cords can become a fire and shock or electrocution hazard, as well as cause equipment damage. This paper addresses the hazards associated with using extension cords, along with the safety considerations for properly selecting extension cords based on the application.