The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that approximately 2200 injuries associated with extension cords are treated annually in hospital emergency rooms. In response to a recent near-miss involving a defective power strip reported at TIG, we offer the following electric cord safety reminders for the office and home.

• NEVER use frayed or damaged cords or power strips. Discard old, cracked, worn, or damaged extension cords.
• When pulling out a cord from the socket, make sure you pull it from the plug, not the cord itself. Pulling the cord puts stress on the insulation around the cord. Damage to or deterioration of this protective insulation increases the possibility of electric shock.
• ALWAYS make sure the cord is completely in the socket with no part of the prongs exposed.
• Do not run cords under carpets or rugs. If cords must be used across heavy traffic areas or doorways, they should be securely taped to the floor.
• Make sure that cords do not dangle from counters or tabletops where they can be pulled or tripped over.
• Do not staple or nail extension cords to walls.
• Avoid any activity that might damage or cut the insulation on the cord, exposing bare wiring and possibly causing it to overheat.

We suggest that each associate perform a self-inspection of the electrical cords and power strips currently in use in their work area and report any damaged or defective cords for prompt replacement.