nivek_c t1_j22j72u wrote on December 29, 2022 at 4:30 AM

Reply to comment by Rdb12389 in 120v Extension Cord with USB outlets by HardSn0wCrash

Lamp cord to receptacle = code violations unless

A) this is a temporary power setup that was installed by a qualified electrician

B) the entire assembly is submitted to UL and approved

Technically what op did is illegal and would make them criminally liable in my state for doing electrical work without a license (18 months, 10k fine), and civilly liable for five figures worth of willful building code violations. If the device actually caused a fire or bodily harm it gets way way worse

Point is: this behavior is dumb and shouldn't be encouraged on this subreddit. Teach people to do things the right way, don't encourage them to break laws and put others at risk.

Edit: anyone who wants to argue the code, go review chapter 3 of the NEC and show me where it lists flexible cord as an appropriate wiring method, or maybe go read the 11 accepted uses for flexible cord outlined in 400.7

nsa_reddit_monitor t1_j22r9co wrote on December 29, 2022 at 5:44 AM

The NEC doesn't apply though because it covers things like building wiring and doesn't regulate stuff users plug in to that wiring later.

It doesn't make sense anyways. You'd have to also argue that I'd face building code violations if I gifted someone a no-brand power strip from Aliexpress, because I guarantee a lot of those aren't UL listed.

OP's devices would likely be an OSHA violation, but that just means they can't be used in a workplace.

Basically, this is legal because it's not covered by the NEC, it's not in OSHA's jurisdiction, and UL listing isn't required by law.

nivek_c t1_j23xtv3 wrote on December 29, 2022 at 2:10 PM

Nec absolutely does regulate what you can do with flexible cord, see my edit for the appropriate sections in the code book to reference. Number 11 on the list of appropriate uses in 400.7 is where you will find the exact wording that specifically prohibits this device.

And no it's not legal, not even in the slightest. you cannot wire electrical devices for use outside your own home without an electricians license or working directly under someone with one, full stop. you cannot create devices that intentionally violate the NEC, regardless of if they're for use in your own home or someone else's, full stop.

Edit: since I don't actually expect you to read 400.7, here's the part you should be concerned with

Between an existing receptacle outlet and an inlet, where the inlet provides power to an additional single receptacle outlet. The wiring interconnecting the inlet to the single receptacle outlet shall be a Chapter 3 wiring method. The inlet, receptacle outlet, and Chapter 3 wiring method, including the flexible cord and fittings, shall be a listed assembly specific for this application.