According to NFPA 70E Chapter 2, what is required for maintenance of portable electric tools?

The requirement that attachment plugs and cord connectors must be of the correct polarity is essential for ensuring the safe operation of portable electric tools. Correct polarity helps prevent electrical accidents by ensuring that electrical currents flow in a predictable and safe manner. This is particularly important in environments where these tools are used closely with workers, as improper polarity can lead to electric shock or equipment malfunction.

Maintaining the correct polarity in attachment plugs and cord connectors ensures that the hot and neutral wires are correctly aligned, preventing hazardous situations that could arise from miswiring. This is a critical safety measure in electrical work practices as outlined in NFPA 70E, which emphasizes the importance of using electrical tools safely.

While cleaning tools regularly, replacing them annually, or storing them indoors may contribute to general maintenance practices, these actions do not necessarily address the specific electrical safety concerns related to how these tools are connected to power sources. Therefore, ensuring correct polarity is a key aspect of maintaining electrical safety standards while using portable electric tools.