Safety tip of the week: extension cables and cable reels in wet weather

In November, building sites and gardens are often wet. Yet plenty still runs on mains power, from angle grinders to site lights. The cable across the ground has a hard time, and water and electricity do not mix. Here is how you stay safe in the rain.

Why are extension cables extra risky in wet weather?

If water reaches a damaged cable, plug or socket, you can get an electric shock or cause a short circuit. An overloaded cable can also overheat and start a fire. A cable lying on the ground also gets damaged easily, and you do not always see that straight away.

Which cable or reel should you choose for outdoors?

• Use a rubber cable outdoors. A thin indoor lead does not belong on a building site or in wet grass.
• For a sheltered spot outdoors, choose a reel or socket rated at least IP44 (splash-proof). Unprotected in the rain? Then you need IP65, or move it under cover.
• Check the reel for its maximum power, wound and unwound, and choose a cable that suits your tool.

How do you lay the cable safely?

• Always unwind a cable reel fully, even for a few metres. A wound-up cable can get so hot that it starts a fire.
• Keep the cable off walkways and driving routes. If that is impossible, place a plank on either side so it does not get crushed.
• Keep plugs, connectors and the reel high and dry, never in a puddle or on wet ground.
• Do not chain extension cables together; use one cable of the right length.

What do you check on the cable and plug?

Before use, check the whole cable: are there cracks or cuts in the sheath, is the plug discoloured or loose? Take a damaged cable out of use straight away. Do not repair it with tape; leave that to a professional. Do you smell burning, hear crackling or does the plug feel warm? Pull the plug out immediately. At work, cables and reels should also be inspected every year to NEN 3140; look for the inspection sticker.

Why is a residual current device so important?

Plug into a circuit protected by a 30 mA residual current device (RCD), for example a site distribution board. Press the test button of a plug-in RCD before use. Keep in mind: an RCD is extra protection, not a replacement for a good cable. In wet weather, cordless tools are a good alternative: then you need no cable at all.

Need an extra fixed outdoor socket or a change to the fuse box? Always have a qualified electrician do it. That is skilled work.

Checklist: extension cables and reels in wet weather

• Is the cable suitable for outdoors and is the reel rated at least IP44?
• Is the cable intact, without cracks, cuts or tape?
• Is the reel fully unwound?
• Are plugs and connectors high and dry?
• Is the cable clear of walkways and driving routes?
• Is there a 30 mA RCD in the circuit, and have I tested it?

💡 Tip: at the end of the day, wind the cable up dry and store the reel in a dry place. Then it is ready to use the next morning.

Also wear dry work gloves for grip, a rain jacket and rain boots. Read more about working in cold and rain in our tip on working safely in the cold.

What do professionals and DIYers often ask about extension cables in wet weather?

Can I use an indoor extension lead outdoors?

No. Outdoors, use a rubber cable with a socket rated at least IP44, or IP65 if it lies unprotected in the rain.

My RCD keeps tripping. What now?

Do not keep switching it back on. Unplug everything and look for the cause, such as a wet connector or a damaged tool. If you cannot find it, call in a qualified electrician.

What do I do if someone gets an electric shock?

Mind your own safety first: do not touch the person while the power is on. Pull the plug or switch off the power at the fuse box. Call 112 if the person does not respond properly, is not breathing normally or has serious burns. Even after a minor shock, always see a doctor urgently.

Keep working safely with Saniso

• Take a look at our cable reels and our cordless tools.
• Also find work gloves, rain jackets, rain boots and other workwear and personal protective equipment.
• Also read our guide to safe working on the construction site.
• Questions about your job or the right protection? Get in touch with us.

Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.