Extenion cord usage for non temp installs

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Jeff80

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Can you use an extention cord for a perminate application? I dont think the NEC cares but what about UL or something else? I have someone in a office buiding using extention cords everywher for example they have a ext cord going into a closet to a small refridgerator.

Please help me
 
Take a look at 400.8(1) through (8) for uses not permitted for flexible cord.

Typically cords can not be used for permanent wiring.

Chris
 
The simple answer is "no." The basis for that answer is NEC 400.8(1).

The trickier answer involves sitting and wondering if the NEC even applies to the user of an electrical system. It talks about receptacles, but has little to say about what gets plugged into them. There has been some debate on this forum, with relation to this question. For example, it has been pointed out by some (OK by one) (OK, by me) that 90.2(A) limits the scope to the installation of stuff, and that the act of plugging something in is not an act of "installation." Other worthy members have not agreed.

So, which do you prefer, the simple answer, or the trickier one? :smile::D
 
OSHA has basically the same requirements for use of flexible cord as the NEC. Rule 1910.305(g)(1)(iv) states "Unless specifically permitted otherwise in paragraph (g)(1)(ii) of this section, flexible cords and cables may not be used:
(A) As a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure;
(B) Where run through holes in walls, ceilings, or floors;
(C) Where run through doorways, windows, or similar openings;
(D) Where attached to building surfaces;
(E) Where concealed behind building walls, ceilings, or floors; or
(F) Where installed in raceways, except as otherwise permitted in this subpart."

These rules don't cover the people who "install" electrical systems, they cover employees who use the system. So as long as the OP is talking about a place that has employees, the answer is "no."
 
G0049 said:
OSHA has basically the same requirements for use of flexible cord as the NEC. These rules don't cover the people who "install" electrical systems, they cover employees who use the system. So as long as the OP is talking about a place that has employees, the answer is "no."
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I have no problem with there being a rule/code that restricts the use of extension cords after the receptacle, I just don't think it should the NEC.
 
so, why do they make heavy gauge extension cords for appliances? I have seen "A/C extension cords" and "microwave" extension cords at my local hardware store. You dont move your a/c and microwave every 90 days, do you?

~matt
 
TOOL_5150 said:
so, why do they make heavy gauge extension cords for appliances? I have seen "A/C extension cords" and "microwave" extension cords at my local hardware store. You dont move your a/c and microwave every 90 days, do you?

~matt
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just because they make and sell things dont make them legal to use permantly:wink:
 
charlie b said:
The simple answer is "no." The basis for that answer is NEC 400.8(1).

The trickier answer involves sitting and wondering if the NEC even applies to the user of an electrical system. It talks about receptacles, but has little to say about what gets plugged into them. There has been some debate on this forum, with relation to this question. For example, it has been pointed out by some (OK by one) (OK, by me) that 90.2(A) limits the scope to the installation of stuff, and that the act of plugging something in is not an act of "installation." Other worthy members have not agreed.

So, which do you prefer, the simple answer, or the trickier one? :smile::D
Click to expand...

I think I agree with Charlie, I can install a receptacle for a dryer in the laundry room and it pass inspection. Every thing is good for a dryer. I would not have any control of a homeowner to pull out the dryer, plug in a welder, and start welding in the living room:-?
 
The Fire code covers it (UFC, IFC)--basically you cannot use an extension cord as a substitute for permanent building wiring. This code maintains certain standards after the building is built and occupied. Since you are in a office building, I would call the Fire Marshall for your area.
 
charlie b said:
The simple answer is "no." The basis for that answer is NEC 400.8(1).

The trickier answer involves sitting and wondering if the NEC even applies to the user of an electrical system. It talks about receptacles, but has little to say about what gets plugged into them. There has been some debate on this forum, with relation to this question. For example, it has been pointed out by some (OK by one) (OK, by me) that 90.2(A) limits the scope to the installation of stuff, and that the act of plugging something in is not an act of "installation." Other worthy members have not agreed.

So, which do you prefer, the simple answer, or the trickier one? :smile::D
Click to expand...

Yes but now we have the NEC telling us the vending machines must have GFCI protection, portable cords must be listed....
 
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