1910.304(a)(3): Use of grounding terminals and devices
Key takeaways
- 1910.304(a)(3) is part of OSHA's general industry standards (29 CFR Part 1910, Subpart S).
- OSHA cited it 2 times in the last 3 years, in 2 inspections, with $1,951 in current penalties.
- Related part: 1910.304(a) Use and identification of grounded and grounding conductors (29 citations).
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In this article
What this rule covers
29 CFR 1910.304(a)(3) ("Use of grounding terminals and devices") is one requirement inside 1910.304 Wiring design and protection, an OSHA general industry standard (Part 1910, Subpart S). The official text below is copied word for word from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR). The numbers, injury cases and training on this page show how OSHA enforces it on real job sites.
Official text
(3) Use of grounding terminals and devices. A grounding terminal or grounding-type device on a receptacle, cord connector, or attachment plug may not be used for purposes other than grounding. 2 citations
Source: eCFR, text current as of 2026-10-15. Read all of 1910.304.
Where and how often it was cited
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OSHA interpretation letters
Related parts of this rule
- 1910.304(a) Use and identification of grounded and grounding conductors 29 citations
- 1910.304(a)(2) Polarity of connections 27 citations
- 1910.304(a)(1) Identification of conductors
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About this page
Sources
- 29 CFR 1910.304 (eCFR), text current as of 2026-10-15
- U.S. Department of Labor enforcement data: OSHA inspections, citations and accident records, copied nightly; data as of 2026-10-22
3-year window. Federal OSHA only; state-plan rules are not counted. Plain-language text is a summary, not legal advice; the official text controls. Black Belt Safety is not part of OSHA or the Department of Labor.