Code of Practice for the Electricity (Wiring) Regulations - 2009 Edition

(1) General
Appendix 3
Prescribed Requirements for Protected Type
Non-reversible 5 ampere, 15 ampere and
30 ampere Socket Outlets
A 5A or 15A or 30A socket outlet to BS 196 is acceptable as complying with
the prescribed requirements of this appendix.
(2) Materials for plate/cover, base and current carrying
parts
(a) Parts made of ferrous metal should be rendered rust proof, special
attention being given to springs and moving parts.
(b) (i) Insulating materials should be tough, non-ignitable and not soften
when heated to a temperature of 100°C.
(ii) Current carrying parts, including earthing contact should be made of
brass, copper, phosphor-bronze, and/or other suitable material.
(iii) The enclosure of the socket outlet should be rigid and be capable of
withstanding a minimum force of 4 kg applied over an area of 250
mm2 anywhere on the surface without causing appreciable damage
or reducing the protective clearance below the minimum values
specified in paragraph (6).
(3) Construction of socket outlet
(a) (i) The socket outlet is to be constructed to accommodate the plug
having physical dimensions as detailed in Figure A3(1).
(ii) In this appendix, where reference is made to a plug, it means a plug
having a corresponding rating and dimensions as detailed in Figure
A3(1).
(b) The configuration of the socket contacts should be as shown in Figure
A3(2).
(c) The essential dimensions of the socket outlet fed exclusively by a radial
final circuit is shown in Figure A3(2).
(d ) Socket contacts should be self-adjusting as to contact making and each
socket contact should such as to make and maintain, in normal use,
effective electrical and mechanical contact with the corresponding plug
pins. The means for producing the contact pressure should be associated
with each socket contact independently.
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