Are Electrical Cords Looped Over Wall a Fire Code Violation?

Fire Codes

• Regulations developed by agencies such as the National Fire Protection Agency and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration serve as the basis for local fire codes. Regulations regarding extension cord use focus on shielding the wires themselves from accidental damage and overloading. Regulations also discourage the use of extension cords as permanent wiring, usually defined as continuous use for eight hours or longer. Prohibitions that apply to extension cords run over walls include concealment of cords and subjecting the cords to potentially damaging conditions, such as pinching of insulation on obstructions or damage due to foot traffic.

Potential Problems

• Extension cords were not designed as load-bearing cordage. A kink, tight knot or pinching on a sharp object can stretch one side of the insulation sheath and compress the other side. Cords heat when in use, making insulation soft and easily damaged. Light-duty extension cords meant for low-amperage home uses contain only one layer of insulation that wraps and separates the conductors. Cracked insulation strains the wire strands, leading to broken strands and possible arcing. Double-insulated cords shield insulated conductors in a tough outer sheath that helps prevent damage to the wires, but any cord with a damaged outer layer needs repair or replacement.

Acceptable Uses

• If you live in an apartment building or a group home, such as a college dormitory, you probably live under stricter fire codes than in the average home. The same common-sense rules govern all situations, whether in a residence or a workplace. If covered or bundled together, extension cords can overheat, melting the insulation. Always uncoil extension cords when in use to prevent heat buildup. Running the cord through any location where the cord might get pinched, such as when a window closes or a door shuts, also violates code. Run cords in the open but not in the way of foot traffic.

Cord Faults

• Any extension cord with a break, crack or deep abrasion in the insulation can cause a fire. Stretched cords might also suffer damage. The cord socket and plug use strain-reliefs to prevent wires from pulling away from internal connections. Unusual strain on the cord, such as yanking the cord out of a wall socket, can overcome this safety feature and pull connections loose. Damaged connections can arc and overheat enough to glow. Glowing connections can melt and ignite insulation and fixtures and can ignite flammable gases. Disconnect power at the fuse box if a cord is too hot to handle.