Lead-Free Extension Cords

October 10, 2014, by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from STAR

Hi,

I was wondering where I could purchase lead free etc. extension chords.

Thanks!

Debra's Answer

I'm so glad you asked this question! I just struck a gold mine of possibilities for you.

I searched on "lead-free extension cord" and got zero results.

Then I tried "cloth extension cord" and bingo!

Why are we concerned about lead on extension cords? Because virtually all extension cords and cords of any kind contain lead, known to the state of California to cause cancer. Many products now carry this warning:

WARNING: Handling the power cord on this product will expose you to lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause [cancer and] birth defects or other reproductive harm. WASH HANDS AFTER HANDLING

All power cords for all products. All extension cords, All surge protectors.

It takes only seconds for your skin to absorb lead from touching cords, lead paint, or anything else containing lead.

The European Union has ban[ned] the placing new electrical and electronic equipment on the EU market containing more than agreed levels of lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyl (PBB) and polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) flame retardants.” Their cords are RoHS (Restricion of Hazardous Materials) compliant.

But I couldn't find any internet source of RoHS compliant cables available for consumer purchase. There's a business someone should start.

So cloth-covered cord is the solution for the moment.

Update 2020: Conway Electric makes PVC-free, cloth covered extension cords.