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Electrical Tape Safety

Electrical tape is used for two different purposes. Insulating electrical tape is often used to fix moderate abrasions or problems in thicker power cords. Electrical heating tape, on the other hand, is used to keep water pipes from freezing so that they do not crack or develop other integrity problems. The requirements for safety are different for each use.

  1. Repairs

    • When using electrical tape to repair extension cords and other electrical cords, it should only be used to fix very minor amounts of damage. This damage includes small cuts and abrasions that may eventually compromise the integrity of the extension cord. Electrical tape can be used if the damage has not actually cracked the protective jacket of the cord.

    Significant Damage

    • Electrical tape should not be used to repair any types of damage that penetrate the jacket that protects the electrical cord wires. Worn or frayed cords should be thrown away rather than repaired using electrical tape. When in doubt, the cord should be thrown away. If the damage is slight, the tape should be wrapped tightly and carefully around the abrasion and replaced at intervals to keep it fresh. In workplace scenarios, the cord should just be replaced.

    Replacement of Heat Type

    • Electrical heat tape used on pipes should be replaced as it wears down for safety. If the heating tape develops cracks or its insulation wears thin, it can cause heat damage and become a fire hazard. Typically, heating tape more than three years old should be inspected and replaced, if possible, with government certified electrical heat tape that is rated to last longer.

    Insulation

    • Electrical heat tape should not be covered with insulation unless the manufacturer specifically recommends it. Heat tape covered with the wrong type of insulation can overheat very easily and cause fires. If insulation is used, it should nonflammable, such as fiberglass. Similarly, the heat tape should not be applied over existing insulation.

    Placement

    • Heat tape should be wound around the pipe to give it the most exposure to heat possible. Different types of heat tape have slightly different installation requirements, but most types should be carefully wrapped with at least several inches of space in between each winding of the tape. Tape can be secured against the pipe using common, approved electrical tape, if necessary.

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