Ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs, are life-saving devices that protect people from electrocution. OSHA now requires this basic safety component for working with electricity in wet environments any time a permanently installed GFCI receptacle isn’t present. (US Dept. of Labor - OSHA Safety and Health Regulations for Construction - 1926.404(b)(1)(ii).) The purpose of the requirement is to prevent electrocution accidents, which are common where electrical tools or equipment are used around water or even very damp environments.
GFCIs are designed to interrupt the leak of an electrical current, which is often much less than the current needed to operate typical power tools and equipment. The GFCI device stops a harmful level of electricity from flowing through a user who comes in contact with the energized part of an electrical circuit. A GFCI unit measures the steady current used to operate a particular tool or device. If an imbalance of 4-6 milliamps occurs between the line and neutral conductors, the unit instantly activates, opens the circuit and cuts power to the tool or device.
GFCI receptacles have been required in residential homes since the early 1970’s; they are commonly seen in kitchens, bathrooms, and patios. However, since not all job sites provide them, we highly recommend the use of Bad Ass GFCI-Protected Extension Cords and Adapters. Faulty electrical tools, devices, and extension cords injure or kill numerous workers annually. Follow OSHA's GFCI regulations and don’t become a statistic! Bad Ass GFCI-Protected come in 25, 50 and 100 foot lengths. We also have GFCI Adapters, which instantly convert standard extension cords and/or outlets into a GFCI-protected ones.
Electrocution hazards are the fourth leading cause of death in construction. This means the odds of a worker being injured or killed by electrocution or an electrical arc blast sometime in his or her career are unacceptably high. Improve the odds! Minimize the risk! Protect yourself and your work crews! Stay OSHA-compliant! Insist on Bad Ass GFCI-Protected extension cords for every job!