Cord, Plug and Guard
A rubber-handled socket should be used for safety and to withstand hard knocks. It should have a switch on it, preferably a push switch in a recess in the handle.
The connector or attachment plug should be of rubber or solid plastic and have a metal cord grip fastened to it. This grip will hold the cord firmly and prevent strain on the terminal connections.
Finished Trouble Light
Get a good lamp guard. If the wire is too light, it may bend and break the bulb when hit or dropped. For the lamp itself, get a rough service lamp. An ordinary lamp won't last long with rough usage.