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FAST FACTS SEPTEMBER 2016 Power Strips and Dangerous Daisy Chains

The supply of readily available Problems electrical outlets is inadequate in OSHA regulations require that some older buildings. Extension conductors and electrical equipment be cords or surge protected power used in accordance with the conditions strips are often interconnected, or under which they are approved by a “daisy chained,” to readily provide recognized testing organization (29 more outlets and/or to reach greater CFR 1910.303(a)). Most power strips distances. Another common solution or surge protectors are approved for that is ofter used is to create a “mixed providing power to a maximum of four daisy chain,” by interconnecting or six individual items. When multiple several extension cords and surge power strips are interconnected, the Figure 1: Daisy Chain—Interconnected protectors or power strips in series. one directly connected to the building extension cords However, interconnecting these wall outlet is often supplying power devices is a violation of Occupational to far more outlets than the approved Safety and Health Administration number. This electrical current overload (OSHA) regulations and the National can result in a fire or can cause a Electrical Code because doing so can to trip, de-energizing cause them to become overloaded, computers and other equipment which could lead to their failure and throughout the area that are connected a possible fire. (See the Office of to the . Compliance “Extension Cords” Fast Facts for more information) Extension cords are sometimes used to energize power strips in locations Daisy Chaining far from outlets. Because electrical Figure 2: Mixed daisy chain— Found Frequently resistance increases with increased Powerstrip energized by an Daisy chains and mixed daisy length, interconnecting extension cord chains constitute some of the most cords increases the total resistance common violations identified during and result in heat generation. recent Office of Compliance health This creates an additional risk of 90 days are considered permanent and safety inspections. During equipment failure and fire, particularly wiring. Unfortunately, once in place, the biennial inspection conducted when paper and other combustible extension cords tend to become during the 114th Congress, materials are in contact with the wires. permanent wiring and a fire hazard. instances of daisy chains and mixed Additionally, OSHA’s regulations daisy chains were observed in many only allow extension cords to be Solutions office settings, accounting for used as temporary wiring for up to Several safe solutions exist. In many numerous recorded violations. 90 days. Any cords in place over cases, a power strip energized by an

Office of Compliance | 110 Second Street, SE | John Adams Building | Room LA 200 | Washington, DC 20540-1999 P: 202.724.9250 | F: 202.426.1913 | www.compliance.gov | @LegBranch_OOC extension cord or another power to the outlet, and helps to protect the strip can simply be replaced by a plug and cord from damage. Check power strip with a power cord of each surge protector to make sure it is adequate length to reach an outlet. in good condition for use. Alternatively, desks and associated equipment may be moved so they Only power strips equipped with are closer to existing outlets. Other internal fuses are acceptable as times, use of a power strip that is permanent wiring. Those lacking better able to accommodate bulkier these fuses are equivalent to extension plugs solves the problem. cords, and therefore may not be used as permanent wiring. When a power Several factors should be considered strip is installed, care must be taken to when selecting an appropriate surge ensure that it is not suspended in mid- protector. Since models vary in the air by its power cord or cords plugged amount of current that they are rated into it, resulting in excessive stress on to safely carry, it is important to electrical connections. Figure 3: Daisy chain of power strips— consider the amperage requirements One power strip is being used to of the devices to be energized. Models When there are not enough outlets energize two other power strips vary in length of power cord, typically to supply occupants’ needs, one ranging from three to 15 feet. Choose solution is to request the installation merits of installing modular furniture one whose length is most appropriate of additional wall or floor outlets. that provides multiple outlets at each for reaching the intended room outlet. Their placement should avoid any workstation. Interconnected modular Avoid having excess cord that could need to run any wires across walkways, furniture units are energized by the get in the way and cause a hazard. where they can create tripping hazards building’s electrical supply through a Ensure that the surge protector is set (See the Office of Compliance’s single, large power cord, or “whip,” on its’ base. Some have swivel plugs “Slips, Trips and Falls” Fast Facts). providing ample power to all which make them easier to connect Consideration can also be given to the served workstations.

Fast Stats ■■ All conductors and equipment must be approved by an OSHA Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) (29 CFR §1910.303(a). ■■ OSHA’s electrical standards require that listed or labeled equipment be used or installed in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling by the manufacturer (29 CFR §1910.303(b)(2)). ■■ OSHA’s electrical standards require that outlet devices have an ampere current rating not less than the current load to be served (29 CFR §1910.304(b)(2)).

■■ The and OSHA does not permit extension cords to be used for permanent wiring.

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Washington, DC 20540 impartial dispute resolution process, and investigates and remedies t/ 202-724-9250; f/ 202-426-1913 violations of the Act. Recorded Information Line/ 202-724-9260 www.compliance.gov

This information does not constitute advice or an official ruling of the Office of Compliance or the dBoar of Directors and is intended for educational purposes only. For further information, please refer to the Congressional Accountability Act (2 U.S.C 1301 et seq.) and the regulations issued by the Board, or you may contact the Office of Compliance.