GENERAL DYNAMICS

Telecom Saudi Arabia

DATE : 23 September 2006

SUBJECT : 56th WEEKLY TOOLBOX MEETING (EXTENSION CORDS)

Objective :
To introduce and orient the workers that nothing about an extension cord suggests danger, but it can be
dangerous if misused.

= Only good cords should ever be used, preferably ones that are approved and tested by the underwriters
laboratories. Cord that show wear and tear, should be repaired by a qualified person or thrown away.

= Some hazards in using cords can be controlled only by the user and no extension cords can stand rough usage.
If you kink it, knot it, cut it, crush it, or even bend it, you can break the insulation, which may cause a short
circuit and an electric shock or even a fire.

= Most cords used carry regular 110-volt electricity, and no doubt at same time, you may have received a shock
from 110-volt line without serious harm, just not terribly unpleasant tingling sensation. Although 110-volt
current is not harmless. It can kill you if the condition are right, for example: if you make a good connection
with live wire carrying a 110 voltage while you are standing on a wet floor, a steam or water pipe, or another
electrical connection and have wet or sweaty hands.

= Protect the extension you use, coil it in large loops, not in close-kinked coils. Don’t bend it unnecessarily;
don’t subject it to stain. A cord should never be left hanging in a passageway or lying on the floor where people
can step on it; the reason is so very simple : to prevent tripping accident and to prevent damage to the cord.

= If an extension cord does show signs of wear and tear, or if you know it has been damaged, don’t repair it
yourself; turn it in for one you can be confident is safe.

= In special situation, special types of cords are needed. Some cords but not all, are water resistant. Some are
insulated for heat resistance. Some are designed to stand the action of solvents and other chemicals that may be
present. So don’t use an extension cord in a situation in which there is moisture, heat (including electrical
heating equipment) or chemicals that may harm the insulation, unless you are sure that your extension cord is
the proper type for that particular situation.

Safety rules that should be applied for safe use of extension cords:
1. Handle the cord gently, avoiding strain, kinking, crushing or cutting.
2. String it where it will not be hit or tramped on.
3. It it shows any signs of wear and tear, turn it in and get an undamaged one.
4. If moisture, heat, or chemicals are present, be sure your cord is the proper type to resist the existing
condition.

For your reference, guidance and information;

Cc: RRichardson/SFeigel/ASchneider/KBwye/RPoarch/GD Staff/DSCO Staff/File