Final answer:
OSHA regulations mandate that outlet devices must have an amperage rating higher than the load to ensure safety. Outlet devices, along with fuses and circuit breakers, are rated in amperes (amps) to match the demands of electrical appliances and safeguard against excessive current and potential hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
OSHA regulations require that outlet devices have an ampere rating greater than the load to be served. This requirement ensures that the electrical system can handle the demands placed on it without overheating or posing a risk of fire. Most electrical appliances, including those that might be plugged into these outlets, are also rated in amperes. Similarly, circuit breakers are rated in a range from 10 amps to 30 amps to protect electrical circuits by interrupting current flow if it becomes excessive, thereby preventing damage and potential hazards.
Considering the continuous use limitation to 80% of a breaker's current capacity, a 15-amp breaker can safely handle up to 1,400 watts, while a 20-amp breaker can handle up to 1,920 watts. Hence, appliances that generate heat usually fall within this range to comply with safety regulations. Remember, the flow of charge, which is what current represents, should always be safely managed by amperage-appropriate devices and infrastructure to prevent electrical accidents.