Safe use of powerboards, multi-plugs, and multi-boxes

Published: 14.07.2009

PowerBoards, Multi-Plugs, and Multi-Boxes, or Electrical Portable Outlet Devices (EPODS) as they are more technically known, are multiple electrical socket-outlets mounted onto a portable case, allowing you to plug in several appliances at once.

They are commonly used where there are not enough wall socket-outlets available for the number of appliances the owner wants to plug in simultaneously.

Poor electrical contact and overloading is a major cause of electrical fires, especially if the appliances connected draw heavy current loads, such as heaters, electric jugs/kettles, washing machines and stoves or any other high current appliance. These types of appliances should be directly connected into wall sockets, not EPODs, because if used together they could exceed the total current load rating of the EPOD.

A general rule of thumb is: If it heats, do not use an EPOD

Common examples of EPODs use are for low current devices including:

computers and associated equipment including a monitor, printer, scanner and modem
televisions and DVD players, video recorders, satellite receivers and stereo systems.

Safe use of EPODs includes:

only low current appliances should be connected
never use them in damp or wet areas, if marked “For indoor use only”
if damaged stop using immediately and replace
check regularly for wear and tear