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Extension cord inspection checklist

An extension cord and temporary power inspection for a US construction site, filled in on a phone as you walk the cord runs. It starts with the employer's choice under OSHA 1926.404(b)(1): GFCIs, an assured equipment grounding conductor program (AEGCP), or both. Then each temporary panel and spider box with its GFCIs tested, and every cord, cord set and cord-and-plug tool by area: the visual check, the grounding continuity and terminal tests, the color or tag for the period if you use one, and whether it stays in service. The form counts the cords removed.

For superintendents, electrical foremen and safety managers who run a GFCI or AEGCP program on a US job and need the test record on site.

Written for US OSHA rules. In the UK, use the PAT testing record for portable equipment.

  • The GFCI or AEGCP choice, competent person, written program and test period on page 1
  • Temporary panels and spider boxes checked, with each GFCI tested as an item
  • Every cord by area: label scan, type marking, visual check, continuity and grounding terminal tests
  • Cords removed from service counted, with what happened to each one
  • Actions with owners and dates, and two signatures
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What does OSHA require for extension cords on construction sites?

A cord inspection record is useful when it lists each cord by ID with the date it was checked and tested, and shows what happened to the ones that failed. Under an assured equipment grounding conductor program the record is what proves each cord passed its continuity and grounding terminal tests in the current period.

Last updated . Facts checked by the SiteSurvey team on 27 October 2026 against OSHA 29 CFR 1926.404, wiring design and protection: ground-fault protection (eCFR), OSHA 29 CFR 1926.405, wiring methods: temporary wiring and flexible cords (eCFR) and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.416, general requirements: cords and cables (eCFR).

How to inspect extension cords and temporary power

Do it before first use, at each test period and after anything that may have damaged a cord.

  1. Set the program

    Choose GFCIs, an AEGCP or both. For an AEGCP, name the competent person, confirm the written program is at the jobsite, and enter the color or tag for this period if you use one.

  2. Check panels and spider boxes

    For each temporary panel or spider box, check covers, unused openings, circuit labels, receptacles and the working space. Press the test button on each GFCI and record that it trips and resets.

  3. Add the areas

    Add each floor or work area where cords are used, and check the cord runs: protected at pinch points, not stapled or hung from nails, none worn or frayed.

  4. Check each cord

    Scan or type the cord ID and the marking on the jacket. Look over the pins, plug, connector and jacket. Under an AEGCP, record the continuity and grounding terminal tests.

  5. Remove and act

    Mark anything that fails as removed from service and say what happened to it. Add actions with owners and dates, then sign.

What makes a cord inspection record useful

Each cord: ID, type marking, visual check, continuity and terminal tests, outcome

School addition in Madison, 7 October: level 2 deck, cord C-07, SJTW 12/3, 100 ft. Visual check passed, but it had been run over by a pallet jack the day before. Grounding continuity: Fail. Removed from service, tagged out for a new cord cap, and the drywall sub asked to keep cords off the hoist route.

Fictional example. Record the actual evidence and approved arrangements for your job.

A common recording mistake

Taping every cord in the trailer with this quarter's color without testing them, so the color says a cord passed when nobody checked its grounding conductor.

What happens next

Do the visual check before each day's use, retest any cord that is repaired or damaged, and test everything again before the period ends.

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Every question in the extension cord inspection template

A US construction site record of temporary power under OSHA 29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1): the GFCI or assured equipment grounding conductor program choice, each temporary panel and spider box with its GFCIs tested, then every cord, cord set and cord-and-plug tool by area with the visual check, continuity and grounding terminal tests, the color or tag for the period if you use one, and the count of cords removed from service. 4 sections and 109 questions. Follow-up questions and guidance appear only when an answer calls for them, so the person on site never sees the ones that do not apply.

Make it your own: every question is editable

This is a starting point, not a fixed form. Once it is in your SiteSurvey account you can reword any question, add or remove questions, sections and answer options, and add your own logo, so it fits the way your team works and the jobs you do.

Details you only enter once

Add this form to a project in SiteSurvey and it fills in what the project already knows, so nobody on site retypes it and every form on the job uses the same names. Anything filled in can still be changed.

  • Project: the project name
  • Site address: the site address, from the space or the project
  • General contractor or owner: the project's customer

Site and program

  • ProjectShort answer

    Filled in from the project in SiteSurvey.

    Fills in from the project name
  • Site addressShort answer
    Fills in from the site address, from the space or the project
  • General contractor or ownerShort answer
    Fills in from the project's customer
  • Location (GPS)Short answer
  • Inspection date*Date
  • Inspected by*Short answer
  • Employer*Short answer
  • Electrical contractor for temporary powerShort answer
  • Ground-fault protection used on this site*Choose one

    29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1): the employer uses GFCIs or an assured equipment grounding conductor program.

    • GFCI protection
    • Assured equipment grounding conductor program (AEGCP)
    • Both: GFCIs and an AEGCP
  • Competent person designated for the AEGCP*Short answer

    Able to spot existing and predictable hazards, with authority to correct them at once (1926.32(f)).

    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • Written description of the program available at the jobsite?*Yes or No
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • How passed equipment is recordedChoose one
    • Log (this record)
    • Color coding
    • Tags or labels
    • Other
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • Color, tape or tag for this test period, if you use oneShort answer

    Your own scheme. OSHA does not set colors.

    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • This test period endsDate

    No more than 3 months after the test date.

    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • GuidanceThe rule. On US construction sites the employer protects employees with either ground-fault circuit interrupters or an assured equipment grounding conductor program (29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1)). With GFCIs, every 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-amp receptacle outlet that is not part of the permanent wiring and is in use has an approved GFCI. The AEGCP covers all cord sets, temporary receptacles and cord-and-plug equipment.
  • GuidanceAEGCP. A written description at the jobsite, one or more competent persons, a visual check before each day's use, and tests of grounding conductor continuity and correct attachment: before first use, after repair, after any incident that may have caused damage, and at least every 3 months (6 months for cord sets and receptacles that are fixed and not exposed to damage). Record each tested item and its date by a log, color coding or other effective means (1926.404(b)(1)(iii)).
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • WarningThe AEGCP needs a written description of the specific procedures at the jobsite. Add an action.
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • GuidanceWorking in Great Britain? Use the PAT testing record: this form follows US OSHA rules.

Temporary panels and spider boxes

  • GuidancePress the test button on each GFCI: it should trip and cut the power, then reset. Follow the maker's instructions for how often to test.
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • Power sources
    Repeat for each entry. Each one asks:
    • Panel or box*Short answer

      For example: Temporary panel TP-1; Spider box SB-2.

    • Type*Choose one
      • Temporary power panel
      • Spider box or portable distribution box
      • Power pole or pedestal
      • Portable generator
      • Other
    • LocationShort answer
    • Fed fromShort answer
    • Rating plateScan a label: make, model, serial number, voltage, amp rating

      Optional. Scan the data plate or label to capture the numbers.

    • Covers, dead fronts and blank plates in place, no exposed live partsChoose one

      Live parts at 50 volts or more guarded against accidental contact; boxes have covers (1926.403(i)(2), 1926.405(b)(2)).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Unused openings closed and cord entries protected from abrasionChoose one

      1926.405(b)(1).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Circuits and disconnects labeled for their purposeChoose one

      Unless the purpose is evident (1926.403(h)).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Receptacles of the grounding type, none damagedChoose one

      1926.405(a)(2)(ii)(C).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Protected from vehicles, weather and waterChoose one
      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Working space in front kept clear, not used for storageChoose one

      1926.403(i)(1).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • GFCI devices and receptacles tested here
      Repeat for each gfci. Each one asks:
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • GFCI or receptacle ID*Short answer
      • Type*Choose one
        • GFCI receptacle
        • GFCI breaker
        • Portable or inline GFCI
        • GFCI built into the spider box
      • Test button trips it?*Yes or No
      • Resets and restores power?*Yes or No
      • Also checked with a plug-in GFCI tester?Yes or No
      • Result*Choose one
        • Pass
        • Fail, taken out of use
      • What happened and what was doneNotes
        Shown when “Result” is “Fail, taken out of use”
      • g_flagWorked out by the form
    • s_gfcisWorked out by the form
    • s_gfci_failsWorked out by the form
    • s_failsWorked out by the form
    • s_ncWorked out by the form
    • ResultWorked out by the form
    • Photos (cover open and closed, labels)Photos
  • Panels and boxes checkedWorked out by the form
  • GFCIs testedWorked out by the form
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • GFCIs failedWorked out by the form
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • Problems at panels and boxesWorked out by the form

Cords and cord-and-plug equipment

  • GuidanceUnder an AEGCP, each cord set, plug, connector and piece of cord-and-plug equipment is checked by eye before each day's use for deformed or missing pins, insulation damage and signs of internal damage, and is not used until repaired if damaged (1926.404(b)(1)(iii)(C)). Extension cord sets for portable tools are three-wire and rated for hard or extra-hard usage (1926.405(a)(2)(ii)(J)).
  • Areas where cords are used
    Repeat for each entry. Each one asks:
    • Area*Short answer

      For example: Gym addition, level 1; Site trailer; Laydown yard.

    • Fed from (panel or box)Short answer
    • Cords protected from damage, sharp corners and pinch pointsChoose one

      Protected where they pass through doorways or other pinch points (1926.405(a)(2)(ii)(I)).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • No cords stapled, hung from nails or suspended by wireChoose one

      1926.416(e)(2).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • No worn or frayed cords in useChoose one

      1926.416(e)(1).

      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Cords out of water and routed clear of walkways where possibleChoose one
      • Acceptable
      • Action needed
      • Not checked
      • Not applicable
    • What needs doing, or why not checkedNotes
      Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • Cords and equipment checked here
      Repeat for each entry. Each one asks:
      • Cord or equipment ID*Short answer
      • Scan the ID tag or cord markingScan a label: id, type marking, gauge and conductors, length

        Optional. Scan the asset tag or the printing on the jacket.

      • What it is*Choose one
        • Extension cord set
        • Cord-and-plug tool or equipment
        • Temporary lighting string
        • Multi-outlet cord or box
        • Other
      • Type marking on the jacketShort answer

        For example SJTW 12/3 or SOOW 10/3.

      • Length (ft)Number
      • Three-wire, grounding type, hard or extra-hard usage?Yes or No
        Shown when “What it is” is “Extension cord set”
      • Visual check*Choose one

        Pins, plug and connector, jacket, strain relief, signs of internal damage.

        • Pass
        • Fail
      • Defects foundTick all that apply
        • Deformed or missing pin
        • Cut, cracked or worn jacket
        • Exposed inner conductors
        • Splice, tap or tape repair
        • Cracked or loose plug or connector body
        • Strain relief failed, cord pulled from plug
        • Burn or heat marks
        • Crushed or flattened
        • Type marking missing or unreadable
        • Other
        Shown when “Visual check” is “Fail”
      • CheckCords are used in continuous lengths without splice or tap. Only hard service cord No. 12 or larger may be repaired by a splice that keeps the insulation, outer sheath and usage characteristics (1926.405(g)(2)(iii)).
        Shown when “Defects found” includes “Splice, tap or tape repair”
      • Why tested nowChoose one
        • Before first use
        • Regular test (interval not over 3 months)
        • Before return to service after repair
        • After an incident that may have caused damage
        • Fixed and not exposed to damage (interval not over 6 months)
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Grounding conductor continuityChoose one
        • Pass
        • Fail
        • Not tested
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Grounding conductor on its proper terminal (plug and receptacle)Choose one
        • Pass
        • Fail
        • Not tested
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Polarity, if your tester shows itChoose one
        • Pass
        • Fail
        • Not tested
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Color or tag appliedShort answer
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Test resultWorked out by the form
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • Outcome*Choose one
        • In service
        • Removed from service
      • What happened to itChoose one
        • Tagged out and held for repair
        • Cut and thrown away
        • Returned to the owner or rental company
        Shown when “Outcome” is “Removed from service”
      • What was foundNotes
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • WarningThis item failed a check or test but is marked in service. Damaged or untested equipment is not used until repaired and retested (1926.404(b)(1)(iii)(C), (F)).
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
      • c_removedWorked out by the form
      • c_problemWorked out by the form
      • Photos of the defectPhotos
        Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
    • w_cordsWorked out by the form
    • w_removedWorked out by the form
    • w_problemWorked out by the form
    • w_testedWorked out by the form
    • w_failsWorked out by the form
    • w_ncWorked out by the form
    • Area resultWorked out by the form
    • Photos of the cord runsPhotos
  • Cords and equipment checkedWorked out by the form
  • Passed both grounding testsWorked out by the form
    Shown only when the answers above make it relevant
  • Removed from serviceWorked out by the form
  • Failed but still in serviceWorked out by the form
  • Problems with cord runsWorked out by the form
  • Cord resultWorked out by the form

Result, actions and sign-off

  • Items needing actionWorked out by the form
  • ResultWorked out by the form
  • Actions
    Repeat for each action. Each one asks:
    • Action*Notes
    • PriorityChoose one
      • Now: isolate or remove
      • Today
      • Before the next test period
      • This week
    • Who will do it*Short answer
    • Due byDate
    • Status*Choose one
      • Open
      • In progress
      • Done, checked
    • Photo when donePhotos
      Shown when “Status” is “Done, checked”
  • Actions still openWorked out by the form
  • Decision*Choose one
    • Temporary power in order
    • In use: actions to finish
    • Isolate affected circuits until fixed
  • Next check or re-inspection dateDate
  • Summary for the clientNotes
  • Competent person nameShort answer
  • Competent person signature*Signature
  • Site superintendent nameShort answer
  • Site superintendent signatureSignature

See it filled in

A completed extension cord inspection report, made by SiteSurvey from a fictional site visit: every answer, the photos, the guidance that applied and the sign-off, ready to send as a PDF.

See completed form (PDF) ↗

Extension cord inspection FAQs

What is an assured equipment grounding conductor program?

It is the alternative to GFCIs in OSHA 1926.404(b)(1). It covers all cord sets, receptacles that are not part of the building, and cord-and-plug equipment. It needs a written description of the procedures available at the jobsite, one or more competent persons to run it, a visual check before each day's use, and tests of each equipment grounding conductor for continuity and of each plug and receptacle for correct attachment of the grounding conductor.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.404, wiring design and protection: ground-fault protection (eCFR).

How often do cords have to be tested under an AEGCP?

Before first use, before return to service after repair, before use after any incident that may have caused damage (for example a cord set being run over), and at intervals not over 3 months. Cord sets and receptacles that are fixed and not exposed to damage can go up to 6 months. The visual check is before each day's use (1926.404(b)(1)(iii)(C), (E)).

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.404, wiring design and protection: ground-fault protection (eCFR).

Is there an OSHA color code for cord tape?

No. OSHA says the test record identifies each item that passed and the last date it was tested or the period it was tested for, and can be kept by logs, color coding or other effective means (1926.404(b)(1)(iii)(G)). The colors, if any, are the employer's choice. The form records whatever color or tag you use.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.404, wiring design and protection: ground-fault protection (eCFR).

Do I need GFCIs if I run an AEGCP?

The rule lets the employer use either one. Many sites use both. With GFCIs, all 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-amp receptacle outlets on the site that are not part of the permanent wiring and are in use need approved GFCIs, with a narrow exception for receptacles on some small generators. Choose both on page 1 and the form asks for the GFCI tests and the cord tests.

Source: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.404, wiring design and protection: ground-fault protection (eCFR).

What cords are allowed on a construction site?

Extension cord sets used with portable tools and appliances are three-wire and designed for hard or extra-hard usage, such as types S, ST, SO, STO, SJ, SJO, SJT and SJTO. Cords are used in continuous lengths without splice or tap, except that hard service cord No. 12 or larger may be repaired with a splice that keeps its insulation and sheath properties. Worn or frayed cords are not used, and cords are not stapled, hung from nails or suspended by wire.

Sources: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.405, wiring methods: temporary wiring and flexible cords (eCFR) and OSHA 29 CFR 1926.416, general requirements: cords and cables (eCFR).

Is this the same as PAT testing?

No. PAT testing is the UK approach to portable electrical equipment and has its own record: use the PAT testing record there. This form follows the US OSHA construction rules. It records your checks and tests; it does not certify the equipment or make the site compliant.

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