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

(3) Devices for switching off for mechanical maintenance
(a) A device used for switching off for mechanical maintenance should:
(i) require manual operation;
(ii) have visible or clearly and reliably indicated open and closed
positions of the contacts;
(iii) be designed and/or installed in such a way to prevent
inadvertent or unintentional switching on;
(iv) be capable of cutting off the full load current of the relevant
part of the installation; and
(v) be readily accessible for operation.
(b) The following devices satisfying subparagraph (a) are acceptable as
means for switching off for mechanical maintenance:
(i) switches,
(ii) circuit breakers,
(iii) control switches operating contactors,
(iv) plugs and socket outlets.
(4) Devices for emergency switching
(a) Means for emergency switching should act as directly as possible on
the appropriate supply conductors. The arrangement should be such
that one single action only will interrupt the appropriate supply.
(b) Means of interrupting the supply for the purpose of emergency
switching should be capable of cutting off the full load current of
the relevant part(s) of the installation.
(c) The means of operation should be capable of latching or being
restrained in the ‘off’ or ‘stop’ position, unless both the means of
operation for emergency switching and for re-energising are under
the control of the same person. The release of an emergency
switching device should not re-energise the relevant part of the
installation.
(d ) Means of operating (handle, push-button, etc.) a device for
emergency switching should be:
(i) clearly marked;
(ii) preferably coloured red; and
(iii) installed in a readily accessible position where danger might
occur and, where appropriate, at any additional remote position
from which that danger can be removed.
(e) The following devices satisfying subparagraph (d ) are acceptable as
emergency switches:
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