Environmental Health and Safety s1

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

Procedures for the Use of Extension Cords, Multi-Plug Devices and Temporary Wiring

Revision Date 08/09/2012

Pursuant to California Electrical Code 605.5 and 605.4.2, Extension cords and multi-plug devices or “splitters” shall not be used for permanent wiring. Additionally, California Fire Code 605.4 states multi-plug adapters such as cube adapters, infused plug strips or any other device which does not comply with the California Electrical Code shall be prohibited.

The department of Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) does not allow the use of these items in any way due to the increased risk of fire or hazard to the campus community. The presence and/or use of any aforementioned items will be cited by the State Fire Marshal upon discovery and are also violations of Cal OSHA Title 8 regulations. The following guidelines shall be followed with respect to the use of electrical surge protectors and electrical appliances.

 Power strips may be used provided they are in good working order, free from visible damage and are plugged directly into a wall socket.  High amperage appliances such as refrigerators (all sizes) microwaves and ovens shall be plugged directly into a wall outlet to offer the greatest level of electrical protection.  Items that may be plugged into a power strip are generally low amperage appliances such as computers, computer monitors, lamps, electric staplers, clocks, etc.  Power strips may not be piggy-backed, daisy-chained or inter-connected to provide additional length.  Home-made extension cords or power strips, splices or J-Boxes shall not be used in lieu of UL-Approved power strips or surge protectors.  Extension cords are intended for temporary use only. Temporary use shall be defined as operations not to exceed one (1) business day and may not be used overnight unless otherwise approved.

Please circulate this information to those who are responsible for maintaining these items in respective areas.

For additional questions, please call the EH&S direct line (909) 869-4697.