Beachcomber wrote:
It is worth remembering that the point of these NEC requirements is to
discourage the use of extension cords.

Just a few decades ago, many extension cords were of the cheap, crummy
"zip cord" type, thin 18 g. wires, thin insulation with plastic
multi-outlet receptacles on the end. The were easily overloaded and
started many fires even though they carried the UL seal of approval.

Also... In addition to overloads, these cords were easily damaged by
kids, chewed on by pets, smashed by furniture, and tread on by being
placed under carpets.

For those of you who are old enough to notice, you can't buy these
cheap extension cords new anymore. New extension cords are all of a
miniumum thickness and conductor size. Still, it is desirable not to
have to use an extension cord, if possible, and avoid having to use
one in a permanent situation at all costs.

BC:

Well, the wires may be bigger, but inexpensive extension cords are
still
made from zip cord, which can still be pet-chewed and door-
smashed. Any flexible cord trailing across a floor or under a carpet,
whether zip cord or SO cable, is more in harm's way than permanent
wiring
would be (though you'd have to work fairly hard on the SO cable (: ) so
I
guess the objection still stands. Anyway a big mess of extension cords
looks like heck.

Cordially yours:
G P