Socket that catches fire due to tracking phenomenon = Provided by National Institute of Technology and Evaluation

　The independent administrative agency, National Institute of Technology and Evaluation (NITE) is calling attention to the increasing number of fire accidents caused by wiring devices such as extension cords. In 2016, it became mandatory to use fire-resistant materials for power plugs of home appliances. NITE believes that the spread of telework due to the new corona has increased the opportunities to use electrical appliances at home. [Photo] Outlet emitting smoke due to the tracking phenomenon = Provided by the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation According to NITE, in the six years from 2016 to 2021, there were 250 fire accidents involving wiring devices notified by manufacturers and the police. Four people were killed, one seriously injured and 22 slightly injured. In terms of ignition related to usage, it is said that there were many cases of contact failure due to deformation of the plug, etc. From 2016, new technical standards under the Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law have been applied, and fire prevention measures for power plugs of home appliances have been strengthened. The number of fire accidents, which stood at 63 in 2016, has been declining year by year, dropping to 23 in 2019. However, in 2020, the number increased to 26, and in 2021, it increased to 32. According to a survey of sales trends at electronics mass retailers and home centers, sales of table taps that can be plugged into multiple power plugs and extension cords were strong in 2020 and 2021. NITE believes that telework has spread rapidly due to the corona crisis, and the need for it has increased as opportunities to use computers and printers at home at the same time have increased.

Asahi Shimbun