Cord grips

If the sheath of a cable is not properly engaged in the cord grip provided, the cores can become exposed, the connections can be stressed and there will be an increased risk of electric shock. Snags encountered with cord grips include:

• Cord grip not used
• Cord grip clamped on insulation of conductors and not on the sheath.
  This particular deficiency is often seen with plugs.

Solution

Cable terminations must be made without imposing mechanical strain on the terminal (Regulation 526.1 refers). To enable installers to meet this requirement, cord grip devices are incorporated in accessories such as ceiling roses, flexible cord outlet plates, cooker control units, central heating outlet plates and plugs. It is essential that cord grips are correctly used.

Regulation 526.1 Every connection between conductors or between a conductor and equipment shall provide durable electrical continuity and adequate mechanical strength and protection. NOTE: (See Regulation 522.8 - other mechanical stresses).

This article is extracted from Snags and Solutions Part 1 or Part 2 published by NICEIC