Cords & Appliances

Cords, Equipment, and Tool Grounding

Make sure all equipment and extension cords bear the mark of an independent testing laboratory such as UL, CSA, ETL or MET Labs.
Protect flexible cords and cables from physical damage. Check cords for cut, broken, or cracked insulation.
Keep slack in flexible cords to prevent tension on electrical terminals.
Make sure the insulating qualities of a splice are equal to or greater than the original cord.
Extension cords are for temporary use. Install permanent wiring when use is no longer temporary.
Verify that all three-wire tools and equipment are grounded.
Water, electrical equipment, and power cords do not mix! Use GFCI protection in wet or damp environments.
Ground exposed parts of fixed equipment that could be energized.
Use non-conductive tools whenever possible.
Always double check the operation of your voltage testers by testing a live circuit.