Did you know that it makes a huge difference in how you set up and use a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) pigtail? There is the OSHA compliant way, which is the correct way to use them and offers the best protection to our employees and there is an incorrect way. Below should hopefully explain the difference.
When using a GFCI pigtail, the GFCI pigtail is required to be plugged into the power receptacle first and then your tools or extension cords gets plugged into the GFCI. The photo below illustrates the correct way to set up the GFCI.
The incorrect way is to plug in an extension cord to the power receptacle first and then to plug your GFCI into the extension cord. Doing it in this manner exposes your employer to an OSHA violation and more importantly, it is exposing employees to an electrical shock or electrocution hazard because the extension cord itself is not protected by the GFCI because the GFCI protection occurs after where the GFCI is plugged in. The photo below illustrates the incorrect GFCI set-up. 
Below are the GFCI use instructions on the GFCI pigtail which states - DO NOT USE EXTENSION CORD TO CONNECT GFCI TO POWER RECEPTACLE.
Hopefully eveyone understands this article. If there is any confusion or if you need clarification, please contact our Safety Director, Peter Graham.
Have a Safe Day!
