A hospital-grade cord set is determined by the plug and features a plug pattern that conforms to the NEMA 5-15 standard. However, in hospital-grade cord sets, the blades are usually solid instead of folded brass and are normally nickel plated. In addition, the plugs include a cable retention device or strain relief to prevent any stress to the their internal connections.

It is imperative that the ground connection in hospital-grade cord sets be reliably maintained to protect the patient and medical staff. Although many hospitals prefer that the plug be clear so that internal connections can be inspected visually, UL and CSA standards do not mandate the use of clear plugs, nor do they provide any restrictions on color. Gray is a common color for hospital-grade plugs and cords.

Using individual blades instead of a plug bridge provides a more robust plug that can withstand abuse at medical facilities. For example, when a hospital bed is plugged in and it must be moved quickly, the plug is pulled from the outlet as the bed is moving rather than unplugged properly from the wall outlet.

Interpower North American hospital-grade power cords and cord sets carry the “green dot” designation, signifying that they have been designed and tested for grounding reliability, assembly integrity, strength, and durability.