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Subject: Re: Power strips in hoods
Date: Thu, 4 Nov 2010 11:40:13 -0400
Author: "Shiel, Dan" 		Next by Date:
Subject: Glove box inspection checklist?
Date: Thu, 4 Nov 2010 14:15:00 -0400
Author: Kim Auletta


Date: Thu, 4 Nov 2010 13:52:19 EDT
Reply-To: DCHAS-L Discussion List <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU>
Sender: DCHAS-L Discussion List <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU>
From: ACTSNYC**At_Symbol_Here**CS.COM
Subject: Re: Power strips in hoods

Well, Don, I actually think a power strip violates the 2007 OSHA electrical standard unless it has the right kind of GFCI built in.  And a surge protector is not a GCFI. In addition to Surge Protectors and Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters, there are Appliance Leakage Circuit Interrupters (ALCI), and Immersion Detection Circuit Interrupters (IDCI).  Most also have buttons labeled "Test" and "Reset." But only the GFCI, as I understand the code, is accepted.

In 29 CFR 1910.305(a)(2)(v)(A), the phrase "temporary wiring" is meant to include using more than one extension cord (OSHA calls them "cord sets") connected to a permanent outlet, or more than one piece of equipment temporarily connected to an extension cord that is connected to a permanent receptacle outlet. That last one is what a power bar in a hood could be.  And OSHA wants GFCI even on extension cords.  

The new provisions have hit our industries very hard because we now expect theater and film electricians to only purchase extension cords with built in GFCI and to set up at-the-box GCFI for all of the miles of cables and temporary wiring for theater lighting and at film locations with their own generators. 

Monona



In a message dated 11/4/2010 10:11:28 AM Eastern Daylight Time, dabramow**At_Symbol_Here**BRYNMAWR.EDU writes:



I'm not sure I get the citation.  Most hoods have outlets (only) outside the hood, and all the cord-connected devices therein are temporary wiring, in the sense that they are portable and present typically for the duration of a particular process.   Stirrers and hot plates/heating mantles are not typically explosion proof/hazardous location-rated, so I'm not sure what the issue is with the power strip.

I agree that GFCI protected circuits are a very good idea in this location, and I think it would be better to keep the power strip outside the hood to allow for quick access in an upset condition and to protect it from exposure to chemicals/liquids, but I don't think the presence of a power strip in a hood violates a specific standard.

             Don



Donald Abramowitz, CIH
Environmental Health &Safety Officer
Bryn Mawr College
Bryn Mawr, PA


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