Oh man, my extension cord is too short.  What do you do?

Did you know that it is an OSHA and NEC violation to plug two extension cords together (or as it is called, daisy chaining)?  Why you ask?  You can’t find that regulation?  It is actually a round about way that this is not allowed.  All extension cords are tested and registered through Underwriters Laboratory (UL).  UL lists what everyone knows as “extension cords” as cord sets under the product category Cord Sets and Power Supply Cord. Cord sets and power supply cords are evaluated for compliance with the Standard for Safety for Cord Sets and Power Supply Cords, UL 817.  UL 817 requires that every extension cord has a tag on it that identifies the dos and don’ts of using an extension cord to avoid dangerous hazards.  One of the markings required on that tag states, “Do not plug one extension cord into another.”  Daisy chaining increases the likelihood of misuse, excessive voltage drop and overloading the extension cord and may create a fire or shock. So, if one extension cord is plugged into another it is a violation of NEC 110.3(B) because the cord set would not be installed in accordance with the manufacturers markings.

OSHA applies a minimum $500 fine for daisy chaining.  What does this mean when your cord is too short?  Get a longer cord or find a different (closer) location to get your power.