What is an acceptable course of action if the ground on a power cord has been compromised?

When the ground on a power cord has been compromised, replacing the end of the cord is the most responsible course of action. The ground is a critical safety feature designed to prevent electric shock and protect equipment from damage due to faulty wiring. A compromised ground could lead to hazardous situations, such as electrical shock or malfunction of connected devices.

By replacing the end of the cord, you are ensuring that the ground connection is restored to its intended function, thus maintaining the safety standards necessary for electrical work. This action significantly reduces risks that could arise from using a damaged cord.

Other options, such as wrapping the cord with tape or using it only in dry areas, do not adequately address the underlying safety issue of the compromised ground. These methods are temporary fixes that may lead to further hazards. Leaving the cord for later inspection does not mitigate the immediate risk and can expose users to danger in the meantime. Therefore, proactively replacing the end of the cord is the best practice for maintaining safety.