RoSPA NI : Electricity and You
Flexes and Cables
Extension Leads
As you never really know what you want to use an extension lead for, it is strongly recommended that you use three-core flex.
If it is 1.5 mm2 in size you can then use the lead for any appliance up to 3 kW. For further information about extension leads see Electricity and You - Garden Electric Safety.
Using Extension Leads
When using an extension lead, make sure that it is fully unwound (it could overheat and melt if rolled up).
An extension lead MUST have a plug at one end and a socket at the other. It is recommended that all equipment used outside, particularly with extension leads, be protected by a residual current device (RCD) fitted either to the lead, to the socket outlet or at the meter position.
Note: Always plug a portable RCD into a fixed socket outlet inside the house, not into the extension lead socket.
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Produced in association with Northern Ireland Electricity - www.nie.co.uk
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