This section applies to using cord-connected and plug-connected equipment, including flexible cord sets (extension cords).

(1) Portable equipment must be handled in a manner that will not cause damage. Flexible electric cords connected to equipment must not be used for raising or lowering the equipment. Flexible cords must not be fastened with staples or otherwise hung in a way that could damage the outer jacket or insulation.

(2) Visual inspection requirements:

(a) Portable cord-connected and plug-connected equipment and flexible cord sets must be visually inspected before use on any shift for external defects (such as loose parts, deformed and missing pins, or damage to outer jackets or insulation) and for evidence of possible internal damage (such as pinched or crushed outer jacket). Cord-connected and plug-connected equipment and flexible cord sets that remain connected once they are in place and are not exposed to damage need not be visually inspected until they are relocated.

(b) If there is a defect or evidence of damage that might expose an employee to injury, the defective or damaged items must be removed from service, and employee shall not be allowed to use it until repairs and tests necessary to render the equipment safe have been made.

(c) When an attachment plug is to be connected to a receptacle (including any on a cord set), the relationship of the plug and receptacle contacts must first be checked to ensure they are of proper mating configurations.

(3) Requirements for grounding-type equipment:

(a) A flexible cord used with grounding-type equipment must contain an equipment grounding conductor.

(b) Attachment plugs and receptacles must not be connected or altered in a manner that would prevent proper continuity of the equipment grounding conductor at the point where plugs are attached to receptacles. These devices must not be altered to allow the grounding pole of a plug to be inserted into slots intended for connection to the current-carrying conductors.

(c) Adapters that interrupt the continuity of the equipment grounding connection are prohibited.

(4) Portable electric equipment and flexible cords used in highly conductive work locations, or in locations where employees are likely to contact water or conductive liquids, must be approved for those locations.

(5) Connecting attachment plugs.

(a) Employees' hands must not be wet when plugging and unplugging flexible cords and cord-connected and plug-connected equipment, if energized equipment is involved.

(b) Energized plug and receptacle connections must be handled only with insulating protective equipment if the condition of the connection could provide a conducting path to the employee's hand. For example: If a cord connector is wet from being immersed in water.

(c) Locking-type connectors must be properly secured after connection.