Staying Safe at Home

What size extension cords should you use? How can you tell if an extension cord is appropriate for the intended use?

Before purchasing an extension cord, you should consider how the cord will be used. Make sure the rating on the cord is the same as or higher than the number of watts needed by the product that will be plugged into the cord. Extension cords should never be used as a substitute for permanent wiring.

How can you protect yourself from electricity-related injuries?

You should check for problems in your home electrical systems.

• Check outlets and extension cords to make sure they are not overloaded.
• Examine electrical cords to make sure they are not frayed, damaged or placed under rugs or carpets.
• Make sure that the proper wattage light bulbs are being used in light fixtures and lamps.
• Consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
• One of the most important precautions you can take is to test your smoke detectors and to replace smoke detector batteries annually.
• you should always follow appropriate safety precautions and manufacturer's instructions.

Preventive Electrical Maintenance

An important way to reduce electrical shock accidents is to institute and follow established procedures for preventive maintenance. This is the responsibility of the employer, employee and owner - establishing a close working relationship to reduce and eliminate electrical accidents.

• Inspect work area for electrical hazards daily, such as:
  • flickering lights;
  • warm switches or receptacles;
  • burning odors;
  • loose connections;
  • frayed, cracked or broken wires;
• Never ignore electrical problems.
• Choose proper cords and connectors for the job.
• Make sure any portable cord used to power any type of light and/or heavy-duty industrial equipment is suitable for the equipment - not only gauge size but also flexibility, strength and ability to withstand any chemicals that may be present.
• All testing equipment should be properly calibrated.
• Make sure the extension cord thickness is at least as big as the electrical cord for the tool.
• Read and follow all equipment operating instructions for proper use.
• Leave equipment repairs and adjustment to authorized personnel.
• Sticking switches on electrical saws should be replaced at once. After the switch is released, always maintain control of the saw until the blade has stopped.
• Never operate an electric saw while wearing loose clothing such as an unbuttoned jacket or long, floppy sleeves.
• Follow required lock-out/tag-out procedures.
• Turn off equipment when finished with job.
• Disconnect energy sources.
• Tag out the disconnected power.
• Release stored energy to make sure no power is getting to the equipment.
• Always clean up spills on the floors.
• When portable cords are made up, take special care to make certain that the circuit and grounding conductors are not interchanged.
• Keep work areas clean and dry. Cluttered work areas and benches invite accidents and injuries.
• Good housekeeping and a well-planned layout of temporary wiring will reduce the dangers of fire and shock hazard.

Provided by the Electrical Safety Foundation International