Extension Cords

Extension Cords

Attached to Policy FIN-INS-16 

Scope

This applies to all university facilities.

Standards

The use of extension cords is controlled by Indiana fire codes and IU policy.

Procedures

IU Policy

1. Space heaters cannot be connected to an extension cord; they must be plugged directly to the socket.
2. Plain extension cords are not allowed as a permanent or semi–permanent installation. E.g., to plug in a microwave or a computer.
3. Extension cords with a breaker are allowed. These are your safety strip cords.
4. You cannot chain safety strips (plug safety strips into safety strips).

Indiana Code

1. 605.4 Multiplug adapters. Multiplug adapters, such as cube adapters, unfused plug strips or any other device not complying with NFPA 70 shall be prohibited.
2. 605.4.1 Power tap design. Relocatable power taps shall be of the polarized or grounded type, equipped with overcurrent protection, and shall be UL listed.
3. 605.4.2 Power supply. Relocatable power taps shall be directly connected to a permanently installed receptacle.
4. 605.4.3 Installation. Relocatable power tap cords shall not extend through walls, ceilings, floors, under doors or floor coverings, or be subject to environmental or physical damage.
5. 605.5 Extension cords. Extension cords and flexible cords shall not be a substitute for permanent wiring. Extension cords and flexible cords shall not be affixed to structures, extended through walls, ceilings or floors, or under doors or floor coverings, nor shall such cords be subject to environmental damage or physical impact. Extension cords shall be used only with portable appliances.
6. 605.5.1 Power supply. Extension cords shall be plugged directly into an approved receptacle, and except for approved multiplug extension cords, shall serve only one portable appliance.
7. 605.5.2 Ampacity. The ampacity of the extension cords shall not be less than the rated capacity of the portable appliance supplied by the cord.
8. 605.5.3 Maintenance. Extension cords shall be maintained in good condition without splices, deterioration or damage.
9. 605.5.4 Grounding. Extension cords shall be grounded when serving grounded portable appliances.

Related Procedures

Space Heaters 

History

Last reviewed: 5-26-2016 and combined into omnibus policy FIN-INS-16.

Last reviewed: 6-15-2023