Bingo. I run into this frequently where a facility gets a fire inspection. I do not know exactly what these "codes" or standards are that a fire marshal cites, however they seem to be quite specific. Outlet strips are ok, but daisy chaining them or using extension cords is generally not. There are also restrictions that things with over a certain size motor or certain load can not be plugged into an outlet strip.
Checking how my school district’s employees used electricity was part of my job. Sometimes they got very creative in running cords, so the fire marshal and I were well acquainted. Yes this is under the guidance of the fire code.
”11.1.4 Relocatable Power Taps.
11.1.4.1 Relocatable power taps shall be of the polarized or grounded type with overcurrent protection and shall be listed.
11.1.4.2 The relocatable power taps shall be directly connected to a permanently installed receptacle.
11.1.4.3 Relocatable power tap cords shall not extend through walls, ceilings, or floors; under doors or floor coverings; or be subject to environmental or physical damage”.
They were perfectly fine for electronics and small appliances. Some fire marshals allowed them on refrigerators and microwaves, some did not.
Most would also flag those single outlet surge protectors, calling it a tap and without oc protection.
Citing these, along with the NEC quotes, usually kept the teachers from getting mad at me and “blowing a fuse” (pun intended) when I dismantled their elaborate jury-rigged wiring.