OSHA SAFETY STANDARDS FOR EXTENSION CORDS REDUCE JOBSITE ACCIDENTS

The US Department of Labor cites some of the most frequently-reported injuries stem from slips, trips & falls. Many of these incidents are preventable with the right cord management equipment and compliance to OSHA’s standards for extension cords. 

According to a report published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, slips, trips & falls accounted for 211,640 cases of nonfatal injuries in 2020 and 850 fatal work-related injuries in 2021. OSHA noncompliance incidents and safety reports show the proper use of extension and flexible cords are key in eliminating these issues by ensuring aisles, passageways and jobsites are clear of errant cords and cables. This is critical to maintaining a safe workspace and reducing trips and falls. Retractable power products are an ideal solution to the problem of keeping cords off the ground and out of the way at the jobsite.

Avoiding costly violations to OSHA standards for extension cords isn’t the only motivation for considering retractable power products. Substantial expenses related to slips, trips and falls are also a factor. 

EMPLOYEE INJURY COSTS

Costs of these injuries to the worker include:

• Lost wages
• Out of pocket expenses
• Temporary or permanent disability
• Pain
• Reduced quality of life
• Depression 
• In some cases, death 

EMPLOYER INJURY COSTS

The costs to the employers include: Most cord-related accidents could have been prevented by more sophisticated equipment like retractable cord reels and power pendant outlet boxes. Safety guidelines and OSHA standards for extension cords, like 1910.305(G)(1) that address approved uses for flexible cords & cables, are particular regarding temporary wiring equipment requirements, processes and procedures to reduce workplace accidents related to cord management.

With all temporary power solutions, local electrical codes and OSHA standards for extension cords need to be followed to avoid electrical hazards.

For more information, contact your KH Industries temporary power sales specialist. Browse our website to  find our full line of cord reels, power pendant outlet boxes and temporary power stringers.