Temporary Power, Cords, and GFCI
29 CFR 1926.404 · 29 CFR 1926.405 · 29 CFR 1926.416 · This talk in Spanish
Why it matters
Construction sites run on extension cords, and extension cords in mud, water, and traffic are how electricity finds a path through a person. OSHA requires GFCI protection or an assured grounding program on temporary 120-volt receptacles, and our rule is GFCI on every one. A GFCI turns a would-be shock into a tripped breaker.
Hazards
- ⚠ Damaged cord insulation exposing conductors
- ⚠ Missing ground pins snapped off to fit outlets
- ⚠ Cords in standing water and mud without GFCI
- ⚠ Overloaded cords and daisy chains heating up
- ⚠ Homemade repairs with tape hiding real damage
Controls and safe practices
- ✓ 1926.404(b)(1) permits either GFCI protection or a compliant assured equipment grounding conductor program on 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles that are not part of the permanent wiring. Our company rule is GFCI-only on every such receptacle in use by the crew. Also our rule, not a regulatory interval: test each GFCI monthly and after rain, and always use the test button before trusting an unfamiliar receptacle.
- ✓ Inspect cords daily: insulation, ground pin, strain relief. Damaged cords leave the site or get properly repaired.
- ✓ Use only heavy-duty cords rated for the tools; uncoil fully under heavy load.
- ✓ Route cords overhead or along edges, out of water and traffic; protect them where crossings are unavoidable.
- ✓ A missing ground pin condemns the cord. No exceptions, no adapters.
- ✓ Keep panels and temporary power poles accessible, covered, and labeled.
Crew discussion questions
- When was the last time anyone tested a GFCI on this site?
- Which cords out there right now would fail an inspection?
- Where is power crossing walkways or water today?
- Are any tools tripping breakers repeatedly, and why?
Applicable OSHA standards
29 CFR 1926.404, 29 CFR 1926.405, 29 CFR 1926.416
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