Cords running under mats?
Is it compliant to run electrical cords under mats?
I was told awhile back that cords running under mats should be protected with a cord protector to prevent damage from foot traffic. (Side note: Some people come back and say that the cord protector creates a bump under the mat that could be a trip hazard)
This product says it has a channel for the cords to go thru:
https://www.homedepot.com/p/KLEEN-TEX-Cable-Mat-Rubber-Top-KBL-RUB/315253835#overlay
And this link is making it sound like its okay to put switchboard matting over cords:
https://www.insulatingmats.com/can-you-lay-electric-anti-slip-mats-over-electrical-wires/
What are your thoughts
Comments (5)
I would not recommend running electrical cords under rugs on an extended period basis or permanently. While OSHA nor NFPA 70E specifically address it, running it under a rug can pose two issues:
(1) The cord can overheat and lead to damage or a fire, and
(2) The rug will cover potential defects with the cord.
I have a question. Are you asking about a permanent installation or on a temporary situation?
Temporary situation: "Sure - Great!" Much better than what you often see! I am talking a few hours, maybe a shift. Not temporary as in 90 days.
Permanent Installation. Nope - No way do I like it!
#1 What Drew says! He is the NFPA except but I would bet the NEC says Flexible Cords are for temporary use or something like that.
#2 "Flexible Cords are for Temporary Use, PERIOD!" I was taught that in OSHA 501 20 years ago by my instructor a former CHSO and Area Manager of OSHA (>30 years OSHA).
#3 What if I walked over you arrangement with a 5 gallon pail of water. I spill all 5 gallons of water on the floor and on your mat? Do you have a GFCI on the cord? If not I could fry myself with a short in the cord! The water runs off the mat.
The other thing I learned from my 501 instructor is something I have never forgot. He said, "If it looks unsafe, sounds unsafe, smells unsafe, or in any way feels unsafe, it is probably UNSAFE!" Having any cord laying on the floor for any length of time looks unsafe, more importantly it "feels" unsafe to me, I do not care how many mats you have down.
Hey there, I wouldn't recommend it. Illegal? Not sure. But it definitely will lead to issues.
You should check out Acromat.
https://acromat.com/
They make mats that have channels that protect cords underneath, and can custom-cut it to fit around whatever challenge you have.
For instance, we had some tubing that was also a trip hazard but had to be in place. So the mat we designed with their help went over the tubing and protected that from being damaged, as well as reducing the trip hazard.
These are literally the only anti-fatigue mats my company purchases now. (Sidenote: they'll send you a free sample of what you're looking for as well!)
