There are different types of UK switch sockets. The most common are BS 1363 and BS 2814, but there are many more. Some are even UL listed. Here is a quick overview of the various types. There are also several adaptors and converters that can help you find the best UK switch socket for your needs.
BS 1363
The BS 1363 UK Switch Socket is a type of plug that meets the electrical safety standards. These sockets are commonly used in domestic settings. These sockets have a two-prong connection and a fused plug. They are used in ring circuit wiring systems. There are several types of BS 1363 sockets available.
The UK BS1363 ANGLED plug has three pins and is rated to 250V. The fused plug is protected against overload. The UK BS1363 ANGLED plug is designed to protect against accidental contact between the plug and the wall. It is also protected against reverse polarity.
BS 1363 sockets must have safety shutters to prevent accidental insertion of a non-standard plug. The shutters open when the earth pin (the longest pin of the plug) pushes up the white plastic shutter.
BS 2814
BS 2814 UK Switch Sockets are 13 amps and are used for 250 volt circuits. The standard was first introduced in the late 1940s. They are used in the UK, Ireland, Cyprus and Malta, and some countries in Africa and Asia. The standard was adapted to include multiple plug types. The history of British domestic plugs can be found on a separate page.
The original version of the standard did not specify insulating sleeves for the neutral pins, but recent revisions of the standard include these sleeves. These insulating sleeves prevent fingers from coming into contact with live contacts, and they also prevent metal objects from becoming live when wedged between a plug and a wall.
In the UK, this socket was used for medium-sized appliances. It is compatible with either its own 5 A circuit or a multi socket 15 A circuit. It was once used in theatrical installations.
I.S. 401
An I.S. 401 UK Switch Socket is a UK plug that meets certain safety standards. The plug must be approved by the National Standards Authority of Ireland or by a similar notified body. Most domestic electrical goods are required to have this type of plug. The plugs comply with Group B2 of GOST 7396.
The BS1363 plug is an example of an I.S. 401 UK switch socket. This type of plug was adopted by the UK in 1947. It was an improvement on the earlier BS456 design. The BS1363 type was retained by some countries that had British colonial governments.
A BS 1363 socket is often fitted with an integral switch, which is not required by the standard. Until 1957, such a plug was not permitted. The top portion of the socket has an earth aperture, while the lower left side has an aperture for a neutral or line contact.
BS 546
A BS 546 UK Switch Socket is an electrical socket with two slots. Its rectangular live pins and round earth pin are required for domestic use in the UK. Its 15A variant is suitable for lighting circuits. In addition, a BS 546 socket has a safety shutter to protect the slots. These sockets are still legal in the UK and Ireland, and are used for specialist applications.
BS 546 UK switch sockets are used for electric appliances in homes, businesses, and offices. They meet standards BS 88, BS 546, and SANS 164. They are rated for two to 16 amps and include safety shutters and control lights. Some BS 546 plugs feature extra holes above the neutral and line holes.
The British Standard is applicable to both fused and non-fused plugs. It also covers socket-outlets and adaptors. The UK Standard specifies the dimensions and materials of sockets and plugs. There are also added requirements for switched socket-outlets in Supplement No. 2.
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