SS 145-2-2018 - Complimentary
SS 145-2-2018 - Complimentary
Complimentary for EESC/TC/WG of SS 145 : Part 2 : 2018 (Standards Partners as listed in SS 145 : Part 2 : 2018)
– No reproduction or circulation“
SINGAPORE STANDARD
Published by
“Single-user licence. Complimentary for EESC/TC/WG of SS 145 : Part 2 : 2018 (Standards Partners as listed in SS 145 : Part 2 : 2018)
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SINGAPORE STANDARD
Specification for 13 A plugs and socket-outlets
– Part 2 : 13 A switched and unswitched socket-outlets
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this Singapore Standard may
be reproduced or utilised in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying and microfilming, without permission in writing from Enterprise Singapore.
Request for permission can be sent to: standards@enterprisesg.gov.sg.
ISBN 978-981-48-3518-3
“Single-user licence. Complimentary for EESC/TC/WG of SS 145 : Part 2 : 2018 (Standards Partners as listed in SS 145 : Part 2 : 2018)
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This Singapore Standard was approved by the Electrical and Electronic Standards Committee on behalf
of the Singapore Standards Council on 5 October 2018.
The Electrical and Electronic Standards Committee appointed by the Standards Council consists of the
following members:
Name Capacity
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The Technical Committee on Electrical and Electronic Products appointed by the Electrical and
Electronic Standards Committee and responsible for the preparation of this standard consists of
representatives from the following organisations:
Name Capacity
The Working Group appointed by the Technical Committee to assist in the preparation of this standard
comprises of the following experts who contribute in their individual capacity:
Name
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The organisation in which the experts of the Working Group are involved are:
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Contents
Page
National Foreword 9
1 Scope 11
2 Conditions of use 11
3 Terms and definitions 12
4 General 16
5 General conditions for type testing 16
6 Classification and rating 18
7 Marking and labelling 19
8 Clearances, creepage distances and solid insulation 21
9 Accessibility of live parts 25
10 Provisions for earthing 26
11 Terminals and terminations 26
12 Not used
13 Construction of socket-outlets 31
14 Resistance to ageing, resistance to humidity and protection provided by enclosures ______ 38
15 Insulation resistance and electric strength 41
16 Temperature rise 42
17 Breaking capacity of socket-outlets 45
18 Normal operation of socket-outlets 46
19 Connection of flexible cables and cable anchorage 47
20 Mechanical strength 49
21 Screws, current-carrying parts and connections 51
22 Resistance to heat 52
23 Resistance to abnormal heat and fire 54
24 Resistance to excessive residual stresses and to rusting 55
25 Not used
26 Not used
Annexes
A (normative) The construction and calibration of a calibrated link 80
B (normative) Measurement of clearances and creepage distances 82
C (normative) Determination of the Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) and Proof
Tracking Index (PTI) 87
D (normative) Relation between rated impulse withstand voltage, rated voltage and
overvoltage Category 88
E (normative) Pollution degree 89
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Page
Tables
1 Schedule of tests 17
2 Rated current and maximum fuse rating in normal use, and load for flexing and
flexible cable grip tests related to size of flexible cable 20
3 Minimum clearances for basic insulation 22
4 Minimum creepage distances (mm) for basic insulation 24
5 Withstand voltages for insulation types 24
6 Torque values for screws and nuts 27
7 Actuator test force 34
8 Tightening torque values for cable glands 40
9 Permitted temperature rises 43
10 Loading of socket-outlets for temperature-rise test 44
11 Connection of flexible cables 48
12 Application of glow-wire test 54
B.1 Minimum values of width X 82
D.1 Rated impulse withstand voltage for plugs energised directly from the low-voltage
mains 88
F.1 Test voltages for verifying clearances at sea level 91
H.1 Specific structure of BS EN 50525 and its derivation from British Standards and
from HD 21and HD 22 (BS EN 50525-1:2011, National Annex NA) 93
Figures
1 Test pin (see Clause 12) 56
2a Apparatus for mechanical strength test on resilient covers (see Clause 9) 57
2b Hardwood block for figure 2a 58
3 Disposition of socket contacts (see Clause 13) 59
4-10 Not used
11 GO gauge for socket-outlet (see Clause 13) 60
12 Contact test gauge (see Clause 13) 61
13 Test apparatus and circuit for use with contact and non-contact
gauges (see Clause 13) 62
14 Non contact test gauge (see Clause 13) 63
15 Turning moment gauge (see Clause 13) 64
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Page
16a Withdrawal pull gauges for effectiveness of contact: Gauge for earthing socket
contact (see Clause 13) 65
16b Withdrawal pull gauges for effectiveness of contact: Gauge for line and neutral current-
carrying socket contacts (see Clause 13) 66
17 Not used
18 Apparatus for flexing test (see Clause 19) 67
19 Solid link for test on fuse clips (see Clause 20) 68
20 Tumbling barrel (see Clause 20) 69
21a Pendulum impact test: General view of apparatus (see Clause 20) 70
21b Pendulum impact test: Constructional details of striking elements (see Clause 20) 71
21c Pendulum impact test: Constructional details of mounting support for test samples
(see Clause 20) 72
22 Arrangements for mechanical strength test for portable socket-outlets (see
Clause 20) 73
23 Apparatus for pressure test (see Clause 22 74
24L Ball pressure test (see Clause 22) 75
25- 27 Not used
28 Calibrated link (see A.1) 76
29 Calibrated jig for calibrated link (see A.2) 77
30 Test plug for temperature rise (see Annex G) 78
Bibliography 100
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(blank page)
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National Foreword
This Singapore Standard was prepared by the Working Group on Plugs, Socket-outlets and Switches
appointed by the Technical Committee on Electrical and Electronic Products under the direction of the
Electrical and Electronic Standards Committee.
This standard is a revision of SS 145 : Part 2 : 2010 ‘Specification for 13 A plugs and socket-outlets,
Part 2 : 13 A switched and unswitched socket-outlets’. It is a modified adoption on BS 1363-2:2016+
A1:2018 ‘13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units, Part 2 : Specification for 13 A
switched and unswitched socket-outlets’ and is reproduced with permission from the BSI Standards
Limited.
The following modifications have been made to suit local conditions, practices and regulations:
- Added a sentence in the scope that explicitly states that the standard does not cover socket-
outlet incorporating the remote control switching function.
- Changed the ambient temperature under conditions for use for socket-outlets from -5°C ± 40°C
with the average value over 24 h not exceeding +25°C to having a peak value not exceeding
+40°C, the average value over 24 h not exceeding +35°C.
- Changed the ambient temperature of 20°C ± 5°C used for test condition for socket-outlets to
27°C ± 5°C.
- For Table 1:
For 11.4, amended the nominal conductor cross-sectional area of flexible cable from 1 mm2 to
1.25 mm2.
- Deleted the point on rewirable plug fitted with 2-core 0.5mm2 flexible cable in 14.3.2 and 14.3.3
to align with local requirements.
- Under 22.2.1, amended the test temperature for parts of insulating material related to fixed and
portable socket-outlets to be the same at 125oC ± 5oC to align with local requirements.
- Added local requirements in Clauses 13, 19, 22, Annex I.6 and Figure 24. Where these new
requirements are added, they are indicated by ‘L’ immediately after the clause number, term or
table.
- Deleted Clauses 1, 6.2.8, 17.2, 17.2.1, 18.2, 18.2.1 and 26 on electrical vehicle charging as it
is preceded by the local requirements on electric vehicle charging system.
To facilitate identification, the affected text of the British Standard (BS) which was changed within this
standard is indicated by a left marginal bar adjacent to it.
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- Where applicable, the references to BS or BS EN standards have been replaced with the
equivalent Singapore Standards.
- Where BS EN is an adoption of the IEC standard, the IEC standard should be referred to.
- The numbering of the clauses, tables, figures and annexes follows that of BS 1363-2.
Attention is also drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this Singapore Standard may be
the subject of patent rights. Enterprise Singapore shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all
of such patent rights.
NOTE
1. Singapore Standards (SS) and Technical References (TR) are reviewed periodically to keep abreast of
technical changes, technological developments and industry practices. The changes are documented
through the issue of either amendments or revisions.
2. An SS or TR is voluntary in nature except when it is made mandatory by a regulatory authority. It can also
be cited in contracts making its application a business necessity. Users are advised to assess and
determine whether the SS or TR is suitable for their intended use or purpose. If required, they should refer
to the relevant professionals or experts for advice on the use of the document. Enterprise Singapore shall
not be liable for any damages whether directly or indirectly suffered by anyone or any organisation as a
result of the use of any SS or TR.
3. Compliance with a SS or TR does not exempt users from any legal obligations.
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1 Scope
This part of SS 145 specifies requirements for 13 A switched and unswitched shuttered socket-outlets for
household, commercial and light industrial purposes, with particular reference to safety in normal use.
The socket-outlets are suitable for the connection of appliances, sound-vision equipment, luminaires, etc.
in a.c. circuits only, operating at voltages not exceeding 250 V r.m.s. at 50 Hz using plugs in accordance
with SS 145-1.
Requirements are specified for 13 A shuttered socket-outlets in single or multiple arrangements, with or
without associated controlling switches, for flush mounting in suitable boxes, e.g. conforming to BS
4662:2006+A1:2009, or for surface or panel mounting or for portable use. Fixed socket-outlets are
intended for use with cables conforming to SS 358-3 and cables to the relevant part of BS EN 50525
(see Annex H), having copper conductors. Portable socket-outlets are intended for use with flexible
cables, conforming to SS 358-5. Socket-outlets incorporating fuse links, switches and indicator lamps
are included within the scope of this part of SS 145. Socket-outlets incorporating electronic components
as detailed in Annex I are included within the scope of this part of SS 145.
Socket-outlets conforming to this standard are shuttered and therefore do not require the use of
additional means to shield the current-carrying contacts when no plug is present in the socket-outlet.
This standard does not cover socket-outlet incorporating remote control switching function.
NOTE 1 – The titles of the publications referred to in this part of SS145 are listed in the bibliography.
NOTE 2 – In order to maintain safety and interchangeability with plugs and socket-outlets it is necessary that these
products conform to the requirements of Clause 9 and Clause 13 of this part of SS145, however their body outline
need not be limited at a distance of 6.35 mm from the plug engagement surface.
NOTE 3 – Requirements for electromagnetic compatibility for socket-outlets that incorporate electronic devices are
given in Annex I.
A socket-outlet that does not incorporate electronic devices does not emit intolerable electromagnetic interference
since significant electromagnetic disturbances are only generated during insertion and withdrawal which are not
continuous.
A socket-outlet that does not incorporate electronic devices is mechanical by nature of construction. The product
is therefore immune from electromagnetic interference.
2 Conditions of use
Socket-outlets shall be suitable for use under the following conditions:
(a) An ambient temperature in the range -5 oC to + 40oC, the average value over 24 h not exceeding
+ 35oC;
NOTE – Under normal conditions of use, the available cooling air is subject to natural atmospheric variations
of temperature and hence the peak temperature occurs only occasionally during the hot season, and on
those days when it does occur it does not persist for lengthy periods.
(b) A situation not subject to exposure to direct radiation from the sun or other source of heat likely
to raise temperatures above the limits specified in a);
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(d) An atmosphere not subject to abnormal pollution by smoke, chemical fumes, or other abnormal
conditions. This is equivalent to pollution degree 2, (see Annex E) and overvoltage category III
(see Annex D).
For the purposes of this part of SS 145 the following terms and definitions apply.
NOTE – Where the terms voltage and current are used, they imply r.m.s. values, unless otherwise stated.
3.1 Socket-outlet
An accessory having a set of three socket-contacts designed to engage with the pins of a corresponding
plug and having means for the electrical connection of appropriate flexible cables and may include its
dedicated enclosure.
A socket-outlet which with its associated enclosure is intended for use mounted in or on a fixed surface.
A socket-outlet which is intended to be mounted on a wall or other flat surface without the need for
recessing.
A socket-outlet which is intended to be mounted in a box which is recessed into a wall or other flat surface.
NOTE –The socket-outlet plate and the socket-outlet base are regarded as forming a complete unit, and the socket-
outlet plate is mounted with its back either flush with a wall or other flat-surface structure, or flush with the front of a
socket-outlet box or enclosure.
A socket-outlet intended for incorporation into equipment panels or electrical trunking and which depends
upon such incorporation for its enclosure.
A socket-outlet to be connected to, or integral with, a flexible cable, and which can easily be moved from
one place to another while connected to the supply.
A portable socket-outlet so constructed that a flexible cable can be fitted or replaced using general
purpose tools.
A portable socket-outlet so constructed that it forms a complete unit with the flexible cable which cannot
be replaced after assembly by the manufacturer of the portable socket-outlet.
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A socket-outlet with an associated switch to disconnect the supply to the line socket contact or to both line
and neutral socket contacts.
The external plate which covers the base and contact assembly of a socket-outlet and through which the
pins of the plug are inserted.
3.16 Shutter
A moveable device arranged to shield the current-carrying socket-outlet contacts automatically when a
corresponding plug is removed.
That part which is moved, e.g. pulled, pushed or turned by the user, to operate the switch mechanism.
A lamp or similar device which illuminates to indicate that the socket-outlet contacts are energised.
3.19 Terminals
A means by which the user can make an electrical connection between the appropriate cable or flexible
cable and the conducting parts of the socket-outlet without the use of special tools.
A terminal in which the connection is made directly by means of screws or nuts of any kind or indirectly
through an intermediate metal part such as a washer, clamping plate or anti spread device on which the
screw or nut bears directly.
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(a) A pillar terminal is a terminal in which the conductor is inserted into a hole or cavity, where it is clamped
under the shank of the screw or screws.
(b) A screw terminal is a terminal in which the conductor is clamped under the head of the screw.
(c) A stud terminal is a terminal in which the conductor is clamped under a nut.
A terminal for the connection and subsequent disconnection of one or more conductor(s), the
connection being made directly or indirectly by means of springs, wedges or the like.
3.22 Termination
A means by which an electrical connection can be made between the appropriate flexible cable and the
conducting part of the socket-outlet using special purpose tools, e.g. soldering, welding, crimping.
A moveable or removable part designed to carry, retain, cover and/or remove the fuse link.
A test or series of tests made on a type test sample, for the purpose of checking conformity of the design
of a given product with the requirements of the relevant standard.
A sample consisting of one or more similar units or specimens submitted by the manufacturer or
responsible vendor for the purpose of a type test.
All surfaces which can be touched by test probe B of BS EN 61032:1998 when the socket-outlet is installed
as in use.
Current-carrying parts and those metal parts in contact with them during normal use.
NOTE – Metal parts of the earthing circuit are not considered to be current-carrying parts.
A calibrated heat source for use in place of a fuse link during temperature-rise tests.
A material having the inherent capability of regaining or substantially regaining its original form when
deforming loads are removed.
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The shortest distance along the surface of the insulating material between two conductive parts.
3.32 Clearance
Insulation applied to live parts to provide basic protection against electric shock.
NOTE – Basic insulation does not necessarily include insulation used exclusively for functional purposes.
Independent insulation applied in addition to basic insulation, in order to provide protection against electric
shock in the event of failure of basic insulation.
A single insulation system applied to live parts, which provides a degree of protection against electric
shock equivalent to double insulation under the conditions specified in the relevant standard.
Insulation between conductive parts which is necessary only for the proper functioning of the equipment
That surface, ignoring any raised marking, which is in contact with or directly beneath the Figure 11
gauge when it is in full engagement with the socket-outlet.
Parts where each surface lies completely within a circle of 15 mm diameter or where some of the surface
lies outside the 15 mm diameter circle but in such a way that it is not possible to place a circle of 8 mm
diameter on any of this remaining surface.
NOTE – More information concerning small parts can be found in BS EN 60695-2-11:2014, 4.4.
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4 General
Socket-outlets shall be so designed and constructed that in normal use their performance is reliable and
minimizes the risk of danger to the user or to the surroundings. Such socket-outlets shall be capable of
meeting all the relevant requirements and tests specified in this part of SS 145.
Unless otherwise stated, reference to a plug within this part of SS 145 shall mean a plug in accordance
with SS 145-1.
Unless otherwise specified in this part of SS 145, the socket-outlets shall be tested as delivered by the
manufacturer or responsible vendor and under normal conditions of use, at an ambient temperature of
27oC ± 5oC, after being conditioned at normal laboratory temperature and humidity levels for at least
4 days.
Unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, flush-mounted socket-outlets shall be tested when mounted
on a corresponding insulated box conforming to the dimensional requirements of BS 4662:2006+A1:2009,
the fixing screws being tightened with a torque of 0.6 Nm ± 10%.
Socket-outlets having a declared IP rating shall be tested as a complete assembly (socket-outlet and
enclosure) when mounted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and conditions of use.
The socket-outlets used for the tests shall be representative of normal production items in respect of all
details which may affect the test results.
Non-rewirable socket-outlets shall be supplied with an appropriate flexible cable which shall be at least 1 m
long.
Socket-outlets shall be deemed to conform if no sample fails in the complete series of tests given in
Table 1.
If one sample fails in the complete series of tests given in Table 1, then socket-outlets of that type shall
be deemed to have failed to conform to this part of SS 145, unless the socket-outlets shall be shown to
be not representative of normal production or design, in which case a further type test sample shall be
submitted to the test or tests in that particular group. If there is no failure in this re-test then socket-outlets
of that type shall be deemed to conform to this part of SS 145.
If more than one sample fails in the complete series of tests given in Table 1 then socket-outlets of that
type shall be deemed not to conform to this part of SS 145.
For type testing, all tests have been included in the test schedule and shall be performed in the specified
order.
NOTE– References to carrying out specific tests in various clauses are not intended to indicate a sequence of testing
different to that in the schedule and should not be conducted as separate additional tests.
5.2 All inspections and tests, of any one classification (see Clause 6), shall be carried out as specified
in the clauses listed in Table 1 on the number of samples in the sample column and in the order given.
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5.3 Gauges in accordance with Figure 11, Figure 12, Figure 14 and Figure 16 shall be considered to
conform to the dimensional requirements if the results of the measured values are within the specified
dimensions and the uncertainty of measurement at not less than 95% confidence level does not exceed
0.005 mm.
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7.1 Socket-outlets shall be legibly and durably marked with the following information which shall not
be placed on screws, removable washers or other easily removable parts, or upon parts intended for
separate sale:
(a) Either the name, trade mark or identification mark of the manufacturer or responsible vendor,
which may be duplicated on a removable fuse carrier;
(c) For portable socket-outlets the number of this Singapore Standard shall be followed by “/A”;
(e) On rewirable socket-outlets the terminals intended for the connection of the various conductors
shall be identified by the symbols given in 7.5;
(f) For fused socket-outlets, the words ‘FUSE’ or ‘FUSED’ or the symbol (given in 7.5) on the
engagement surface of a socket outlet;
(g) Fixed fused multiple socket-outlets shall be marked on the engagement surface with the
maximum rated current of 13 A (e.g. MAX. 13 A);
(2) An indication of the suitability to accept rigid conductors only for those socket-outlets
having this restriction;
(3) An indication of the suitability to accept flexible conductors only for those socket
outlets having this restriction.
(j) Where the declared IP classification is higher than IP20 then the IP classification shall be
marked. The marking shall be discernible when the socket-outlet is mounted and wired as in
normal use.
1 Marking SS145-2 on or in relation to a product represents a manufacturer’s declaration of conformity, i.e. a claim
by or on behalf of the manufacturer that the product meets the requirements of the standard. The accuracy of
the claim is solely the claimant’s responsibility. Such a declaration is not to be confused with third-party
certification of conformity. Further testing and conformity certification remains at the discretion of the
manufacturer and is not a requirement of this standard.
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Table 2 –Rated current and maximum fuse rating in normal use, and load for flexing and
flexible cable grip tests related to size of flexible cable
Flex cable Rated Test Fuse rating Load for Cable grip tests
nominal cross- current current flexing test
sectional area ± 0.4 A + 2 %, - 0 %
Load Torque A)
+ 2 %,
-0%
mm2 A A A kg kg Nm
1.25 13 14 13 2 6 0.30
1.5 13 14 13 2 6 0.35
A)
The recording of a measured value of torque in accordance with this table is considered to conform to this
part of SS 145 on condition that the uncertainty of measurement at not less than 95% confidence level does
not exceed ±10%.
7.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and by rubbing the markings for approximately 15 s
with a cloth soaked in water, and again for approximately 15 s with a cloth soaked in an aliphatic solvent
hexane with a content of aromatics of maximum 0.1% by volume, a Kauri-butanol value of 29, initial
boiling point of approximately 69 oC, and relative density of approximately 0.68.
The marking shall remain legible. Markings produced by an engraving or moulding process shall be
deemed to conform without test.
7.2 Portable socket-outlets fitted with a flexible cable shall be supplied with a label or instruction
indicating the colour coding of the cores of the flexible cable as follows.
Cores or conductors in the mains shall be coloured in accordance with the following code:
7.3 Rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be provided with adequate instructions for the safe
connection of the appropriate 3-core flexible cable, including clear instructions for the removal of
insulation from the conductors.
Amperes A
Volts V
*Alternating current
* Direct current (d.c.)
Line L
Neutral N
*Earth
(preferred) or
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*Fuse
NOTE 2 – For the marking of the rated current and rated voltage of the socket-outlet, figures may be used alone,
the figures for the current rating being placed before or above that of the rated voltage and separated by a line.
If a symbol for nature of supply is used, it shall be placed next to the marking for rated current and rated
voltage. Examples are as follows:
13
13 A 250 V ~ or 13/250 ~ or ~
250
13
or 13 A 250 V a.c. or 13/250 a.c. or a.c.
250
7.5 Instructions for installation and use of socket-outlets having an IP classification greater than
IP20 shall be provided.
The distance between lead wires in the pinch of a neon lamp with external resistor shall be a minimum
of 1 mm.
Socket-outlets conforming to the requirements for basic insulation shall be deemed to meet the
requirements of this clause. If the manufacturer declares an insulation level exceeding basic insulation
then the socket-outlet shall be tested accordingly.
NOTE 2 – Product insulation consists of Basic Insulation and Protective Earthing as required by BS EN 61140: 2016
for Class I equipment. Mechanical strength equivalent to that which would be provided by reinforced insulation as
listed in BS EN 61140: 2016 is achieved in SS 145 products through the specific mechanical and material tests.
8.1 Clearances
Socket-outlets energised directly from the low-voltage supply fall into Overvoltage Category III.
The clearances shall withstand the rated impulse voltage declared by the manufacturer considering the
rated voltage and the Overvoltage Category as given in Annex D and the pollution degree declared by the
manufacturer in accordance with Annex E.
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For the measurements, all parts which may be removed without the use of a tool are removed and
moveable parts which can be assembled in different orientations are placed in the most unfavourable
position.
NOTE – Moveable parts are, for example hexagonal nuts, the position of which cannot be controlled throughout an
assembly.
The clearances for basic insulation shall not be less than the values given in Table 3 except as described
below.
Smaller unspecified clearances (except those values marked in Table 3 with footnote “B”) may be used if
the socket-outlet meets the impulse withstand voltage of Annex F at the impulse voltage specified in
Annex D but only if the parts are rigid or located by mouldings or if the construction is such that it is unlikely
that distances will be reduced by distortion or by movement of the parts during mounting, connection and
normal use.
Conformity shall be checked by inspection, and if necessary by measurement, or by the test of Annex F.
If clearance distances are to be measured, this shall be carried out in accordance with Annex B.
The clearances for functional insulation shall not be less than the values specified for basic insulation in
8.1.1.
Conformity shall be checked by inspection, and if necessary by measurement, or by the test of Annex F.
If clearance distances are to be measured, this shall be carried out in accordance with Annex B.
The clearances for supplementary insulation shall not be less than the values specified for basic insulation
in 8.1.1.
Conformity shall be checked by inspection, and if necessary by measurement, or by the test of Annex
F. If clearance distances are to be measured, this shall be carried out in accordance with Annex B.
Rated impulse withstand voltage Minimum clearances in air up to 2000 m above sea level
KV A) mm
0.33 0.2 B)
0.50 0.2B)
0.80 0.2 B)
1.5 0.5
2.5 1.5
4.0 3
6.0 5.5
A) See Annex D. This voltage is:
– for functional insulation: the maximum impulse voltage expected to occur across the clearance;
– for basic insulation directly exposed to or significantly influenced by transient overvoltage from the low-
voltage mains: the rated impulse withstand voltage of the socket-outlet;
– for other basic insulation: the highest impulse voltage that can occur in the circuit.
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The clearances for reinforced insulation shall be not less than the values specified for basic insulation in
8.1.1 but using the next higher step for rated impulse withstand voltage given in Table 3.
The minimum contact gap shall be 1.2 mm in the open position, except for electronic switches covered
by Annex I.5.
The creepage distances shall be dimensioned for the voltage, which is expected to occur in normal use
taking into account the pollution degree, and the material group as declared by the manufacturer.
For the measurements, all parts which may be removed without the use of a tool are removed and
moveable parts which can be assembled in different orientations are placed in the most unfavourable
position.
NOTE 1 – Moveable parts are, for example hexagonal nuts, the position of which cannot be controlled throughout an
assembly.
The relationship between material group and between comparative tracking index (CTI) values and proof
tracking index (PTI) values is as follows:
NOTE 3 – For glass, ceramics and other inorganic materials which do not track, creepage distances need not be
greater than their associated clearance.
The creepage distances for basic insulation shall not be less than the values given in Table 4.
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The creepage distances for functional insulation shall not be less than the values specified for basic
insulation in 8.2.1.
The creepage distances for supplementary insulation shall not be less than the values specified for basic
insulation in 8.2.1.
The creepage distances for reinforced insulation shall not be less than those derived from twice the
distance specified for basic insulation in Table 4.
The requirement shall not be applied to the sleeves of the plug pins.
Solid insulation for basic, functional, supplementary and reinforced insulation shall be capable of
withstanding electrical stresses which can occur in normal use.
8.3.1 Conformity shall be checked by tests in accordance with 15.1.3 using the values given in Table 5.
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9.1 Socket-outlets shall be so designed that when they are mounted and wired as in normal use,
live parts are not accessible.
9.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by the application of the test pin shown in Figure 1 perpendicular
to the accessible external surface of the socket-outlet with a force of 5 -10 N . It shall not be possible to
touch live parts.
NOTE – SELV parts are not considered to be live parts for the purpose of this test.
9.2 Socket-outlets shall be designed and constructed so as to protect the user against accidental
contact with live parts during insertion or withdrawal of plugs.
9.2.1 Conformity shall be verified by satisfying the dimensional and gauging requirements of this part
of SS 145.
9.3 Resilient accessible external surfaces of socket-outlets shall be so designed and constructed
that when assembled and wired as in normal use, there is no risk that, as a result of undue pressure,
live parts could penetrate the accessible external surfaces or become so disposed as to reduce
creepage and clearances below those given in Clause 8.
9.3.1 Conformity shall be checked by the following test (an example of a suitable test apparatus is
shown in Figure 2).
The design of the apparatus shall be such that a steady force of 240 -10 0
N can be applied to those
places where the possibility of a failure exists, the force being applied through a metal test pressure
block as shown in Figure 2a).
Each sample is subjected to the force at each chosen place in turn. During each application of force, a
test voltage of 2000 V ± 60 V 50 Hz of substantially sinusoidal waveform is applied for 60 +50 s between
all live parts bonded together and the metal test pressure block.
After the test it shall not be possible to touch live parts with test probe 11 of BS EN 61032:1998 applied
with a force of 30 -20 N .
9.4 It shall not be possible to introduce a conducting device through the earthing socket aperture(s)
of a socket-outlet in such a manner that there is a risk of making contact with any live conductor, with
or without insulation.
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10.1 Socket-outlets shall be so constructed that, when inserting the plug, the earth connection is
made before the current-carrying pins of the plug become live. When withdrawing the plug, the current-
carrying parts shall separate before the earth contact is broken.
10.2 All accessible metal parts of socket-outlets shall be in effective electrical contact with the
earthing socket contact, except that metal parts on, or screws in or through, non-conducting material,
and separated by such material from current-carrying parts in such a way that in normal use they cannot
become live, need not be in effective electrical contact with the earthing socket contact.
Metal parts having an accessible surface coating of lacquer or enamel shall be tested as accessible
metal parts.
(a) For metal parts insulated from live parts, by the test described in 15.1.3.
(b) For metal parts connected to an earthing terminal by the following test. A current of 25 A ± 0.75
A, derived from an a.c. source having a no-load voltage not exceeding 12 V, is passed for
0 s between the earthing terminal and any accessible metal part intended to be earthed
60 +5
and between the earthing terminal and an earthing plug pin inserted in the earthing socket
contact.
(c) The resistance between the earthing terminal and any other nominated part shall not exceed
0.05 Ω.
10.3 If means are provided for electrically bonding the mounting box to the earthing circuit of the
socket-outlet by means of the fixing screws, the connection between the screw and earthing terminal
shall be of low resistance.
10.3.1 Conformity shall be checked by the test described in 10.2.1(b) applied between the socket-
outlet earthing terminals and any fixing screw in electrical contact with the earthing circuit. For the
purpose of this test the socket-outlet shall be attached to its appropriate mounting box, the fixing screws
being tightened to a value of two-thirds those given in Table 6.
11.1 Terminals and terminations shall provide for effective clamping and securing of conductors
connected to them, so that efficient electrical connection is made.
11.1.1 Conformity shall be checked in accordance with 11.2 to 11.10, according to the type of
terminal or termination.
11.2 Rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be provided with terminals as defined in 3.20.
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NOTE 2 – This column applies to metal screws without heads if the screw when tightened does not protrude from
the hole, and to other metal screws which cannot be tightened by means of a screwdriver with a blade wider than
the diameter of the screw.
11.3 Non-rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be provided with soldered, welded, crimped or similar
terminations; for all these methods of termination, not more than two strands of other sized conductors
shall be fractured during connection.
Screwed and ‘snap-on’ terminals shall not be used. Crimped connections shall not be made on to pre-
soldered flexible cables unless the soldered area is entirely outside the crimp.
11.4 Terminals in rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be of screw-type and permit the connection,
without special preparation, of flexible cables having nominal conductor cross-sectional areas of
1.25 mm2 and 1.5 mm2 as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5 or IEC 60227-5.
11.4.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and fitting the appropriate conductors.
11.5 Line and neutral terminals in fixed socket-outlets shall permit the connection, without special
preparation, of one, two or three 2.5 mm2 solid or stranded or of one or two 4 mm2 stranded conductors
as given in Table 4 of BS 6004:2012.
11.5.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and by fitting the appropriate conductors.
11.6 Earthing terminals in fixed socket-outlets shall permit the connection, without special preparation,
of one, two or three 1.5 mm2 or 2.5 mm2 solid or stranded, or of one or two 4 mm2 stranded conductors.
11.6.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and fitting the appropriate conductors.
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11.7 Where pillar terminals are used they shall have clamping screws of sufficient length to extend to
the far side of the conductor hole. The end of the screw shall be slightly rounded so as to minimise
damage to the conductors. The sizes of the conductor hole and the clamping screw shall be such that
the clearance between the sides of the major diameter of the clamping screw and the conductor hole does
not exceed 0.4 mm when intended for the connection of flexible cables and 0.6 mm when intended solely
for the connection of fixed wiring.
11.8 Terminal screws shall have a declared outside diameter of not less than 3 mm or be not smaller
than 6 B.A.
11.9 In rewirable portable socket-outlets, terminals shall be so located or shielded that should a stray
strand of a flexible conductor escapes when the conductors are fitted, there is negligible risk of accidental
connection between live parts and accessible external surfaces, or of a stray strand by passing the fuse
link if any.
A length of insulation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions is removed from the end of a
flexible conductor having a nominal cross-sectional area of 1.5 mm2. One free strand of the flexible
conductor is left free and the other strands are fully inserted into and clamped in their terminal. The stray
strand is bent, without tearing the insulation back, in every possible direction, but without making sharp
bends round barriers unless a bend is reproduced by the replacement of the cover.
The free strand of a flexible conductor connected to a live terminal shall not:
(b) touch any metal part which is accessible or is connected to an accessible metal part;
(c) reduce creepage distances and clearances to accessible surfaces to less than 1.3 mm.
The free strand of a flexible conductor connected to an earthing terminal shall not touch any live parts.
11.10.1 Screwless terminals for fixed socket-outlets shall be provided with clamping units which allow
the proper connection of conductors as specified in 11.4, 11.5 or 11.6 as appropriate.
For screwless terminals intended to be suitable for the connection of both rigid and flexible copper
conductors the tests given in 11.10 shall be carried out with rigid conductors first and then repeated
with flexible conductors.
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Screwless terminals shall be such that the conductor can be connected without special preparation.
NOTE – Special preparation includes soldering of the wires of the conductor and use of terminal ends, but not
reshaping of the conductor before its introduction into the terminal or the twisting of a stranded conductor to
consolidate the end.
11.10.2 Screwless terminals shall be so designed that they clamp the specified conductors with
sufficient contact pressure and without undue damage to the conductor.
11.10.3 It shall be clear how the conductors are to be inserted and disconnected.
The intended disconnection of a conductor shall require an operation, other than a pull on the conductor,
which can be effected manually with or without the help of a tool in normal use.
Openings for the use of a tool intended to assist the insertion or disconnection shall be clearly
distinguishable from the opening intended for the conductor.
11.10.4 Screwless terminals which are intended to be used for the interconnection of two or more
conductors shall be so designed that:
– Each conductor is introduced in a separate clamping unit (not necessarily in separate holes).
Conformity shall be checked by inspection and by tests with the appropriate number and size of
conductors as specified in 11.10.1.
11.10.5 Screwless terminals shall be so designed that undue insertion of the conductor is prevented
and adequate insertion is obvious.
Marking indicating the length of insulation to be removed before the insertion of the conductor into the
screwless terminal shall be given on the socket-outlet.
When tested in accordance with 11.10.7, screwless terminals shall not work loose when the conductors
are inserted or disconnected during installation.
11.10.7 Screwless terminals shall withstand the mechanical stresses occurring in normal use. When
tested in accordance with the following method, the conductors shall not have moved noticeably in the
clamping unit, neither the terminals nor the clamping part shall have worked loose and the conductors
shall show no deterioration, such that further use is impaired.
The test shall be carried out with uninsulated conductors on one screwless terminal of each sample.
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The appropriate copper conductors shall be used, first conductors having the largest cross-sectional
area, and then conductors having the smallest cross-sectional area specified in 11.4, 11.5 or 11.6 as
appropriate.
Conductors shall be inserted and disconnected five times, new conductors being used each time,
except for the fifth time, when the conductors used for the fourth insertion shall be clamped at the same
place. For each insertion, the conductors shall be either:
After each insertion, the conductor shall be subjected to a pull of N. The pull shall be applied in one
smooth and continuous motion for 60 ±5 s, in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the conductor
space.
During the application of the pull, the conductor shall not come out of the screwless terminal and the
terminal shall not have become detached from the socket-outlet.
11.10.8 Screwless terminals shall withstand the electrical and thermal stresses occurring in normal
use. When tested in accordance with the following methods, the screwless terminals shall show no
changes likely to impair further use, e.g. cracks, deformation.
The following tests shall be carried out on five screwless terminals which have not been used for any
other test.
(a) The screwless terminals shall be connected with 1 m long conductors having a cross-sectional
area of 1.5 mm2 and loaded for 60 ±1 min with an alternating current of 19 A.
During the test the current shall not be passed through the socket-outlet, but only through the
terminals. Immediately after this period, the voltage drop across each screwless terminal shall
be measured with A flowing.
The measurements shall be made across each screwless terminal, as near as possible to the
point of contact of each conductor.
During the preparation of the samples, care shall be taken to ensure that the behaviour of the
terminal is not affected.
When performing the test and taking the measurements, care shall be taken to ensure that the
conductors and the measurement equipment are not moved.
(b) The screwless terminals, after being subjected to the determination of the voltage drop in
accordance with item (a) shall be tested as follows.
The whole test arrangement, including the conductors, shall not be moved until the
measurements of the voltage drop have been completed.
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The terminals shall be subjected to 192 temperature cycles, each cycle having a duration of
approximately 1 h and being carried out as follows:
The voltage drop in each screwless terminal shall be determined in accordance with the test in
item (a) after every 24 temperature cycles and after 192 temperature cycles have been
completed.
On completion of the test, each screwless terminal shall be inspected using normal or corrected
vision without additional magnification.
The mechanical stress test in accordance with 11.10.7 shall be repeated. All samples shall
withstand the mechanical stress test.
12 Not used
13 Construction of socket-outlets
The engagement surface shall be substantially flat. Any steps or profile contours on the engagement
surface shall not result in the surface deviating from the plane of engagement by more than 3 mm. Holes
not exceeding 8 mm diameter for the purpose of assembly fixing shall be deemed acceptable. There shall
be no projection on the engagement surface of a socket-outlet such as would prevent the full insertion of
a plug. If raised marking is used it shall not project more than 0.5 mm from the engagement surface of a
socket-outlet and shall allow conformity with 13.2. The spacing of the socket contacts shall correspond
with that of plug pins as specified in SS 145-1.
13.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection, measurement and the use of the gauges shown in
Figure 11.
13.2 The line and neutral socket contacts in socket-outlets shall be positioned so as to make
satisfactory contact with the corresponding pins of a plug in all positions that the contacts may occupy
when the plug is correctly and fully inserted.
13.2.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and the use of the gauge shown in Figure 12 and the
circuit shown in Figure 13. Both indicator lamps shall light.
13.3 On insertion of a plug into a socket-outlet, the travel of the end of either current-carrying pin from
the front face of the socket-outlet to the first point of contact with the appropriate socket contact, in any
position the socket contacts may occupy, shall be not less than 9.6 mm.
13.3.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and the use of the gauge shown in Figure 14 and the
circuit shown in Figure 13. Neither indicator shall light.
13.4 Socket contacts shall be self-adjusting as to contact making and each socket contact shall be
such as to make and maintain, in normal use, effective electrical and mechanical contact with a
corresponding plug pin. The means for producing the contact pressure shall be associated with each
socket contact independently and shall not rely on any insulating material in contact with the socket
contact. Each socket contact shall be reliably connected to the fixed parts of its terminal or termination.
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13.4.1 Conformity shall be checked by the following tests and Clause 16.
(a) The voltage drop between any individual line or neutral socket contact and the corresponding
plug pin is measured between the terminal connecting strap at a point immediately adjacent to
the socket contact and the corresponding plug pin. The voltage drop shall not exceed 25 mV at
13 A ± 0.4 A.
(b) The withdrawal pull of a gauge as shown in Figure 16(b) from any individual line or neutral socket
contact is checked ensuring that neither the shutter mechanism, nor any insulating material in
contact with the socket contact have any effect on the results of the test. The socket contact shall
retain the gauge for not less than 30 s when the socket-outlet is held horizontally with the gauge
hanging vertically downwards.
13.5 Line and neutral socket contacts shall withstand the stresses imposed upon them by the use of
socket-outlet adaptors and the like.
The socket-outlet is mounted with the engagement surface of the socket-outlet in the vertical plane and
with the major axis of the line and neutral pins horizontal ensuring that the shutter mechanism does not
have any effect on the results of the test The end E of the gauge shown in Figure 15 is inserted into the
line socket aperture as far as the pin D and a mass of 750 g ± 5 g is suspended from pin C for 30 +50 s .
The socket-outlet is rotated through 180o approximately about an axis perpendicular to the engagement
surface of the socket-outlet and the load applied to pin C for a further 30 +50 s . The test is repeated with
the gauge inserted in the neutral socket aperture. After the test the socket contact shall retain the weight
gauge shown in Figure 16(b) for not less than 30 s when the engagement surface of the socket-outlet is
held horizontally, with the gauge hanging vertically downwards. After the gauge is inserted, if any
insulating material touches the moving parts of the contact, the test shall be repeated with this insulation
removed.
13.6 Earth socket contacts shall withstand the stress imposed upon them by the attempted incorrect
insertion of plugs.
The socket-outlet is mounted with the engagement surface of the socket-outlet in the vertical plane and
with the major axis of the earth pin aperture horizontal ensuring that the shutter mechanism does not have
any effect on the results of the test The end A of the gauge shown in Figure 15 is inserted into the earth
socket aperture as far as the pin B, and a mass of 750 g ± 5 g is suspended from pin D for 30 +50 s . The
socket-outlet is rotated through 180o approximately about an axis perpendicular to the engagement
surface of the socket-outlet and the load applied to pin D for a further 30 +50 s .
After the test the earth socket contact shall retain the weight gauge shown in Figure 16 a) for not less the
30 s when the engagement surface of the socket-outlet is held horizontally with the gauge hanging
vertically downwards. After the gauge is inserted, if any insulating material touches the moving parts of
the contact, the test shall be repeated with this insulation removed.
13.7 The construction of the socket-outlet shall be such that when a plug is withdrawn from it, the
current-carrying socket contacts are automatically screened by shutters. One socket aperture shutter
shall not be capable of closing independently of the other aperture shutter. The shutters shall be operated
either by the insertion of the earthing pin or by the simultaneous insertion of any two or more pins of the
plug, provided that the gauge [see Figure 16b)] inserted into any current-carrying socket aperture shall
not open the shutter. Conformity shall be checked by the tests of 13.7.1.
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It shall not be possible to operate a shutter by inserting a 2-pin plug into a 3-pin socket-outlet. Conformity
shall be checked by the tests of 13.7.2.
13.7.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection, by the test described in 18.1.2, and by the application
of the gauge shown in Figure 16(b). The gauge and the test pin, shown in Figure 1, are applied to the
shutter using a force of 5 -10 N applied perpendicular to the engagement surface of the socket-outlet.
13.7.2 Earth pin operated shutters and 3-pin operated shutters shall be deemed to conform to this
requirement without testing. For other shutter designs, conformity shall be checked by the following test.
A 2-pin plug conforming to BS EN 50075:1991 shall be applied to the socket line and neutral apertures
with a force of N. The plug pins, when applied in any direction, shall not make contact with live parts.
13.8 The construction of socket-outlets shall be such as to allow for easy withdrawal of the plug.
A plug is inserted into and withdrawn from the socket-outlet ten times with the socket-outlet mounted as
in normal use.
The plug is then inserted into the socket-outlet and a force is gradually exerted in a direction parallel to
the axis of the pins.
It shall not be possible to reach a pull of 36 N without the plug coming out of the socket-outlet.
NOTE – Care should be taken to remove any grease from the plug pins and socket contacts prior to the tests.
13.9 Apertures for the reception of the line and the neutral plug pins shall not exceed 7.2 mm x 4.8 mm
and for the earthing plug pin 8.8 mm x 4.8 mm. It is permissible to shape apertures at their front edges
to facilitate insertion of plugs conforming to SS 145-1.
The holes for the line and the neutral plug pins in metal plates shall have sufficient insulating material
around them to ensure conformity with Clause 8.
Earth socket contacts may be flush with the front face of covers or cover plates but shall not depend for
their effectiveness on insulating material of the cover. In such a case the aperture shall be measured
between the contact faces at the maximum separation.
13.10 No part of the aperture intended for the reception of the line or neutral pin shall be less than
9.5 mm from the periphery of the engagement surface of a socket-outlet. When a shutter is operated by
the simultaneous insertion of the current-carrying pins this dimension shall be increased to not less than
18 mm from the lower edge of the socket-outlet.
Where the 9.5 mm and 18 mm dimensions includes a peripheral edge radius, it shall not exceed 1 mm.
13.11 Switches shall be so constructed that undue arcing cannot occur when the switch is operated
slowly.
The switch in any switched socket-outlet shall disconnect at least the supply to the line socket contact.
Double pole switches shall make or break each pole with one movement of the actuator.
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Following the test described in Clause 17, the circuit is broken a further ten times, each time moving the
actuating member by hand over a period of approximately 2 s in a manner such as to attempt to stop the
moving contact in an intermediate position causing arcing. The actuating member shall be released after
approximately 2 s and any arcing shall cease.
13.11.2 The actuating member of a switch shall not remain at rest in the “of” position whilst the switch
contacts remain closed. The actuating mechanism shall be so constructed that when operated the switch
can remain only in a position giving adequate contact or adequate separation of contacts. For socket
outlets that cannot be dismantled after assembly an additional new set of three samples prepared with
the contacts closed is supplied by the manufacturer for this test.
13.11.4 The necessary force F to switch off shall first be measured and the force shall be applied to the
extremity of the actuating member.
With the actuating member of the switch in the closed position, the fixed and moving contacts of each pole
shall be mechanically fixed together to provide the most onerous condition.
The method for fixing the contacts shall not unduly affect the test result. The test sample may be
dismantled where necessary in preparation for this test and the test sample and components shall not
be damaged during this preparation.
The actuating member shall be subjected to a test force as defined in Table 7. This force shall he applied
in one smooth and continuous motion to the extreme point of the actuating member in the most favourable
direction to open the contacts for a period of 10 s.
If locking means are designed to lock the actuating members in opened position, it shall not be possible
to lock the actuating members in this position while the force is applied.
After the test and when the test force is no Ionger applied, the actuating member shall not remain at rest
in the “off” position.
Type of actuator Test force Minimum test force Maximum test force
N N
F is the normal operating force in new condition. The test force shall be 3F with the stated minimum
and maximum values applied.
NOTE 1 – The use of grease and the likes are not considered to be a mechanical fixing means.
13.12.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and by fitting gauges as shown in Figure 11 in adjacent
socket-outlets of the multiple socket-outlet.
13.13 If a fuse link is fitted to a socket-outlet, it shall conform to SS 167 and shall be mounted in suitable
contacts between the line terminal or terminations and the corresponding socket contact or contacts or
the switch.
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The design shall be such that the fuse link cannot be displaced accidentally during use or be left in
incorrect contact when the fuse cover or fuse carrier is replaced and secured in position. It shall be
possible to remove and replace the fuse link whilst passing current without dismantling the socket-outlet
and no live parts shall become accessible during its removal or replacement.
The contact for a fuse link connected to the line terminal, or to a switch, shall be formed in one piece
with a fixed part of that terminal or the switch, or connected to them in such a way that efficient electrical
connection is made that cannot work loose in normal use. The other contact for the fuse link shall be
similarly connected to the corresponding socket contact or contacts.
13.13.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and by the application of the standard test probe B of
BS EN 61021:1998 and the test pin shown in Figure 1 applied in accordance with 9.1.1. Fuse link clips in
socket-outlets shall be checked for mechanical strength by the insertion and withdrawal test described in
20.1.2.
Current making and breaking of fuse links shall be checked by the test described in 17.1.4 after which the
temperature-rise test described in Clause 16 shall be carried out.
13.14 Conductive component parts of socket-outlets shall be so located and separated that, in normal
use, they cannot be displaced so as to affect adversely the safety or proper operation of the socket-outlet.
13.15 For flush socket-outlets, the size of the base or bases shall be such that the clearance for the
purpose of wiring between the base or bases and the inside walls of the box or enclosure is not less
than 6 mm and such that the clearance between the overall depth of the base or bases and the bottom
of a 35.0 mm deep box or enclosure, or box or enclosure specified in the manufacturer’s instructions
and/or literature, is not less than 14 mm, when the box or enclosure and the socket-outlet are in the
relative positions they will occupy in use, except that encroachments on these clearances shall only be
acceptable if there is no interference with at least one conduit or cable entry on each face of the box or
enclosure.
There shall be no live metal protruding from or flush with the socket-outlet base. Any exposed live metal
part shall be recessed to give the necessary clearance distance from any earthed metal or with the lugs
of a mounting box as described in BS 4662:2006+A1:2009 which could come into contact with the base
when the socket-outlet is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. This requirement
shall be met when the terminals are fitted with the conductors described in 11.5 and with terminal screws
tightened to the values given in Table 6.
NOTE – If the terminals are arranged for front wiring after fixing the base, then the 14 mm clearance need not apply.
For socket-outlets for use in other enclosures, the clearance between the socket-outlet and the
appropriate box or enclosure shall provide adequate wiring space according to the method of entry of all
the necessary cables.
The socket-outlet base holes shall be capable of accepting three 2.5 mm 2 or two 4.00 mm2
conductors with their insulation, the sheath, if any, having been removed.
13.16 Fixed surface-mounted socket-outlets shall be provided with means to ensure proper seating
on a flat surface and with fixing holes which will accept screws having a nominal diameter of 3.5 mm,
or other suitable fixing means specified in the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Flush or semi-flush mounted socket-outlet plates shall have provision for two M3.5 fixing screws at
centres of 60.3 mm ±0.2 mm on the horizontal or vertical centrelines for boxes intended to
accommodate 1-gang socket-outlets, 120.6 mm ±0.3 mm on the horizontal or vertical centrelines for
boxes intended to accommodate 2-gang socket-outlets of 180.9 mm ±0.4 mm on the horizontal or
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vertical centrelines for boxes intended to accommodate 3-gang socket-outlets in accordance with BS
4662:2006+A1:2009.
The size and disposition of fixing holes shall be such as to allow satisfactory attachment to boxes having
centres manufactured to a ± 0.8 mm tolerance.
13.17 Flush socket-outlet plates either of insulating material or metal, or a combination of both, shall be
82.5 mm x 82.5 mm minimum for single socket-outlets and 82.5 mm x 142.5 mm minimum for multiple
socket-outlets.
13.18 The base and cover of non-rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be permanently attached to
each other, such that the flexible cable cannot be separated without making the portable socket-outlet
permanently useless, and the portable socket-outlet cannot be opened by hand or by using a general
purpose tool, for example a screwdriver used as such. A portable socket-outlet is considered to be
permanently useless when for reassembling the portable socket-outlet parts or materials other than the
original have to be used.
The base and cover of rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be firmly secured to each other, such that
they cannot be detached from each other without the aid of a tool.
13.19 Portable socket-outlets shall be so designed and constructed that they cannot be deformed to
allow access to live parts or to allow separated metal parts to be brought into contact with each other.
13.19.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and by use of test probe 11 of BS EN 61032:1997
applied with a force of 30 -20 N immediately after the appropriate temperature-rise test described in
Clause 16.
13.20 For non-rewirable portable socket-outlets means shall be provided to prevent loose strands of a
conductor connected to current-carrying parts from reducing the minimum insulation thickness
requirements between such parts and all accessible external surfaces of the socket-outlet.
13.20.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and the test described in 15.2.
13.21 For non-rewirable portable socket-outlets internal connections shall not be made by means of
screws.
13.22 Socket-outlets having an IP classification higher than IP20 shall be so constructed so that when
they are fixed and wired as in normal use there are no free openings in their enclosures according to
their classification.
13.22.1 Conformity is checked by inspection and the tests in accordance with 14.3.
NOTE – Drain holes, small gaps between cables and conduits, or between enclosure and operating means are
neglected.
13.23 Surface mounted socket-outlets having an IP classification higher than IP20 shall maintain their
IP classification when fitted with conduits or with sheathed cables as in normal use.
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Fixed surface mounted socket-outlets having degrees of protection IPX4, IPX5 or IPX6 shall have
provisions for opening a drain hole.
If a socket-outlet is provided with a drain hole, it shall be not less than 5 mm in diameter, or 20 mm2 in
area with a width and a length not less than 3 mm.
If the design of the socket-outlet is such that only one mounting position is possible, the drain hole shall
be effective in that position. Alternatively, the drain hole shall be effective in at least two positions of the
socket-outlet when it is mounted on a vertical wall, one of these with the conductors entering at the top
and the other with the conductors entering at the bottom.
13.23.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection, measurement and by the relevant tests of 14.3.
Conformity of lid springs shall be checked by inspection and if necessary by the test of 24.2.1.
NOTE 1 – The IP classification may be achieved by means of a lid when the plug is not in position.
NOTE 2 – This requirement does not imply that the lid, if any, or the entry openings for the pins need be closed
when the plug is not in position, provided that socket-outlets pass the relevant test for the verification of the ingress
of water.
NOTE 3 – A drain hole in the back of the enclosure is deemed to be effective only if the design of the enclosure
ensures a clearance of at least 5 mm from the mounting surface or provides a drainage channel of at least the size
specified.
13.24 Portable socket-outlets having an IP classification higher than IP20 shall be adequately
enclosed when fitted with a flexible cable as for normal use and without a plug in engagement.
13.24.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection, measurement and by the relevant tests of 14.3.
Conformity of lid springs shall be checked by inspection and if necessary by the test of 24.2.1.
NOTE 1 – The IP classification may be achieved by means of a lid when the plug is not in position.
NOTE 2 – This requirement does not imply that the lid, if any, or the entry openings for the pins need be closed
when the plug is not in position, provided that the socket-outlet passes the relevant test for the verification of the
ingress of water.
13.25.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection of component conformity evidence and the tests
of Annex I.
13.26L Portable socket-outlets shall incorporate a switch. Unswitched portable socket-outlets may be
allowed if they conform to the conditions as detailed in 19.7L.
13.27L For rewirable portable socket-outlets having more than one socket-outlet, internal connections
between like socket-contacts shall be made by soldering, welding, crimping or by similar means.
NOTE – The use of multi-strand flexible cable for internal connection is not permitted.
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Socket-outlets are subjected to a test in a heating cabinet with an atmosphere having the composition
and pressure of the ambient air and ventilated by natural circulation.
Socket-outlets having an IP classification higher than IPX0 are tested after having been mounted and
assembled as specified in 14.3.2. For socket-outlets having an IP rating higher than IPX0 when a plug
is inserted, the test shall be performed with a plug wired with a 3-core 1.5 mm2 flexible cable to SS 358-5
inserted. For socket-outlets having a lid intended to be closed to maintain the IP rating, the test shall be
performed with the lid closed.
NOTE 2 – Natural circulation may be provided by holes in the walls of the cabinet.
After the treatment, the samples are removed from the cabinet and kept at room temperature and relative
humidity for 1 h; and following which they are examined and shall show no damage which:
Socket-outlets shall be resistant to humid conditions which may occur in normal use.
14.2.1 Conformity shall be checked by the following humidity treatment followed within 20 min by the
measurement of the insulation resistance and by the electric strength test specified in Clause 15.
Rewirable portable socket-outlets are fitted with 1000 mm ± 50 mm of 3-core 1.25 mm2 PVC flexible cable
as specified in Table 9 of SS 358-5. Non-rewirable portable socket-outlets are tested with 1000 mm ± 50 mm
of the flexible cable with which they are supplied. Fixed socket-outlets are tested as delivered.
Vitrified ceramic material, which after 24 h immersion in water has not increased in mass by more than
0.5 % after all the moisture has been removed from its surface, shall not be subjected to further tests,
providing the resistance to water of the material does not depend on glaze or varnish.
To suit the ambient conditions at the time of test, a convenient temperature, T (in oC), between 20 oC and
30o C, is chosen as a reference temperature. The sample is brought to a temperature of between T and
T + 4o C and is then placed in a humidity cabinet containing air with a relative humidity maintained between
85 % and 95 %. The temperature of the air where the samples are placed shall be maintained within
2o C of the chosen value T.
+1
The sample is kept in the cabinet for 48 0 h.
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NOTE 1 – In most cases samples may be brought to the chosen reference temperature by keeping them at this
temperature for at least 4 h before the humidity treatment.
NOTE 2 – A relative humidity of between 85% and 95% can be obtained by placing in the humidity cabinet a saturated
solution of potassium nitrate (KNO3) or sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) in water having a sufficiently large contact surface
with the air.
In order to achieve the specified conditions within the cabinet it is necessary to ensure constant circulation
of the air within the cabinet and, in general, to use a cabinet which is thermally insulated.
The tests described in Clause 15 shall be made in the humidity cabinet or immediately after removal of
the sample from the cabinet in a room where the specified temperature is maintained. Inspection shall
not reveal any damage to the sample which would impair its use or safety within the requirements of this
part of SS 145.
14.3.1 General
The enclosure of the socket-outlet shall provide protection against access to hazardous parts, against
harmful effect due to ingress of solid foreign objects and against effects due to ingress of water in
accordance with the IP classification of the socket.
14.3.2 Protection against access to hazardous parts and against harmful effects due
to ingress of solid foreign objects
14.3.2.1 General
Conformity shall be checked by the appropriate tests of BS EN 60529+A2:2013 under the conditions
specified below.
Socket-outlets shall be mounted as in normal use in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
and for rewirable socket-outlets with conductors of the smallest cross-sectional area specified in
Clause 11.
Socket-outlets having an IP classification with a plug inserted in the socket-outlet shall be tested
according to the following arrangements.
- Not Used
- One sample shall be tested with a rewirable plug fitted with 3-core 1.5 mm2 flexible cable as
given in Table 9 of SS 358-5.
Socket-outlets having an IP classification with no plug inserted shall be tested for this arrangement.
Mounting screws for boxes or enclosures and screws for fixing socket-outlets to boxes or enclosures
shall be tightened with a torque according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the absence of such
instructions, the screws shall be tightened with a torque equal to two thirds of the values given in
Table 6.
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Socket-outlets with screwed glands or membranes shall be fitted with circular cables having a code
H07RN-F and a cross-sectional area of 1.5 mm 2 as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5. Glands shall be
tightened with a torque according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the absence of such instructions
glands shall be tightened with a torque equal to two thirds of the values given in Table 8.
Parts which can be removed without the aid of a tool shall be removed.
14.3.2.3 Protection against harmful effects due to ingress of solid foreign bodies
Conformity shall be checked by the appropriate tests of BS EN 60529+A2:2013 under the conditions
specified below.
Socket-outlets shall be mounted as in normal use in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Flush mounted socket-outlets shall be fixed in a test wall representing the intended use of the socket-
outlet using an appropriate box in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Where the manufacturer’s instructions specify particular types of walls, these walls as well as any
special installation requirements for the socket-outlet shall be described in sufficient detail.
Surface mounted socket-outlets shall be mounted as in normal use on a vertical surface and fitted with
circular cables having a code H07RN-F and a cross-sectional area of 1.5 mm 2 as given in Table 9 of
SS 358-5.
Socket-outlets having an IP classification with a plug inserted in the socket-outlet shall be tested
according to the following arrangements.
- Not used
- One sample shall be tested with a rewirable plug fitted with 3-core 1.5 mm2 flexible cable as
given in Table 9 of SS 358-5.
Socket-outlets having an IP classification with no plug inserted shall be tested for this arrangement.
Mounting screws for boxes or enclosures and screws for fixing socket-outlets to boxes or enclosures
shall be tightened with a torque according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the absence of such
instructions, the screws shall be tightened with a torque equal to two thirds of the values given in
Table 6.
Socket-outlets with screwed glands or membranes are fitted with circular cables having a code H07RN-
F and a cross-sectional area of 1.5 mm 2 as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5. Glands shall be tightened with
a torque according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In the absence of such instructions glands shall
be tightened with a torque equal to two thirds of the values given in Table 8.
Parts which can be removed without the aid of a tool shall be removed.
If the enclosure of a socket-outlet that has an IP classification less than IPX5 is designed with drain
holes, one drain hole is opened as in normal use and in the lowest position. If an enclosure of a socket-
outlet that has an IP classification equal or greater than IPX5 is designed with drain holes, they are not
to be opened.
Care shall be taken not to disturb, e.g. knock or shake, the assembly to such an extent as to affect test
results.
Within 5 min of completion of the test the samples shall withstand an electric strength test as specified
in 15.1.3.
Inspection shall show that if any water has entered, it shall not:
(a) be sufficient to interfere with the correct operation of the equipment or impair safety;
(b) deposit on parts of insulating material where it could lead to tracking along the creepage
distances;
(c) reach live parts not designed to operate when wet;
(d) accumulate near the cable end or enter the cable if any.
If the socket-outlet enclosure has drain holes which have been opened, it shall be proved by inspection
that any water which enters does not accumulate and that it drains away without doing any harm to the
complete assembly.
15.1 The insulation resistance and electric strength of socket-outlets shall be adequate.
15.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by the tests described in 15.1.2 and 15.1.3.
15.1.2 The insulation resistance is measured using a d.c. voltage of 500 +250
0 V the measurement being
+5
made for 60 0 s after application of the voltage.
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(c) each switched pole terminal of a switched socket and corresponding socket-outlet contact, with
the switch contacts open.
ii) 5 MΩ between parts of opposite polarity connected together, and other parts, including earthed
metal, intended to be insulated from them;
iii) 2 MΩ across switch contacts with the switch open (where applicable).
One pole of neon indicators and the like shall be disconnected before making this test.
Where terminals/terminations are not directly accessible, e.g. in non-rewirable portable socket-outlets,
these tests shall be made using accessible parts, e.g. socket-outlets contacts, known to be connected to
the terminations.
One pole of neon indicators and the like shall be disconnected before making this test.
15.2 Non-rewirable portable socket-outlets shall withstand a high voltage test, for which the test
voltage shall be alternating (50 Hz to 60 Hz), applied between all current-carrying parts connected together
and a conducting electrode in contact with the entire outer accessible surface. This test shall be carried
out at 6000 V ± 100 V for a period between 3 s and 5 s.
16 Temperature rise
16.1 Socket-outlets and their surroundings shall not attain excessive temperatures in normal use.
16.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by the tests described in 16.1.2 and 16.1.3 for fixed socket-outlets
and portable socket-outlets respectively.
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For these tests, where conductors are connected to terminals, the terminal screws shall be tightened with
a torque equal to two-thirds of the values given in Table 6.
During the tests temperature rises are measured at the terminals or terminations and where overheating
might result in a hazard and the values measured shall not exceed the values given in Table 9.
Temperature rises are determined by means of fine wire thermocouples so chosen and positioned that
they have minimum effect on the temperature of the part under test. The thermocouples are attached by
means of a mixture of equal parts of resin adhesive and zinc oxide, by soldering, or by other equally
effective means.
NOTE – If soldering is used, it is essential that care is taken to ensure that the heat from the soldering process does
not affect the performance of the socket-outlet and that no electrical connections are bridged by solder.
If, in order to fix thermocouples, a non-rewirable portable socket-outlet is dissected to give access to the
appropriate positions, the removed parts shall be replaced and if necessary shall be cemented in place
such that no additional air spaces are created.
16.1.2 Surface-mounted fixed socket-outlets are mounted as in use with their accompanying mounting
block or backplate fixed to a vertical plywood board having a nominal thickness of 24 mm and having a
surface extending at least 150 mm in each direction beyond the extremity of the socket-outlet.
Flush-mounted socket-outlets having one or two sets of socket contacts and designed for use with flush-
mounted socket-outlet boxes as shown in either Figure 1b) or Figure 2b) of BS 4662:2006 + A1:2009 are
mounted on a test fixture designed to simulate normal conditions of use, comprising such a metal box
having a nominal internal depth of 35 mm, which is fixed into a block of wood, so that the front edges of
the metal box are between 2.5 mm to 5 mm below the front surface of the block. The size of the block
shall be such that there is a minimum of 25 mm of wood surrounding the box on all four sides and the
back. The socket-outlet is then mounted by means of its fixing screws so that the rear of the plate is flush
with the surface of the block.
Other types of fixed socket-outlets are mounted according to the manufacturer's instructions or, in the
absence of such instructions, in the position of normal use considered to give the most onerous
conditions. For socket-outlets that have an IP classification higher than IPX0, the test is carried out
with any lids closed if the design permits this when in use.
The line, neutral and earth terminals of a single socket-outlet are connected to an incoming and outgoing
2.5 mm2 2-core and earth PVC insulated and sheathed cable as given in Table 4 of BS 6004:2012.
A multiple unfused socket-outlet having more than two sets of socket contacts is connected to an incoming
4 mm2 2-core and earth PVC insulated and sheathed cable as given in Table 4 of BS 6004:2012. There
shall be no outgoing cable.
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A fused socket-outlet having more than one set of socket contacts is connected to an incoming and
outgoing 2.5 mm2 2-core and earth PVC insulated and sheathed cable as given in Table 4 of
BS 6004:2012.
The incoming cable shall enter on the horizontal axis on one side of the enclosure and, where specified,
the outgoing cable shall leave on the horizontal axis on the opposite side of the enclosure. Where
possible, the cables shall enter and leave the enclosure through the standard knockouts provided and
these, if required, shall be fitted with suitable grommets. The points of entry and exit shall be sealed to
prevent circulation of air.
For surface-mounted socket-outlets the length of each of the cables within the enclosure shall be
75 mm ± 5 mm and for flush socket-outlets the length of each cable within the box shall be
150 mm ± 5 mm. In each case the outer sheath shall be removed from the cores to within 20 mm of the
point of entry of the cable to the box or enclosure.
The fuse link, if any, incorporated in a multiple fused socket-outlet is replaced by a calibrated link,
constructed and calibrated in accordance with Annex A.
Socket-outlets under test shall be subjected to electrical loading as given in Table 10. Where a plug is
specified it shall be a special test plug, constructed and calibrated whilst carrying a load in accordance
with Annex G. During the test the resistor of the test plug shall be connected to a d.c. source of supply
equivalent to the ‘calibration voltage’. USB battery charging outlets shall be loaded with their rated
currents ( %) for the duration of this test.
Number of outlets Plugs with connected Balance of load ± 0.4 A Total load on supply
loads ± 0.4 A cable (nominal)
A A
1 1 x 14 A 6 20
2 1 x 14 A + – 20
1x6A
> 1 (fused) 1 x 14 A 6 20
> 2 (unfused) 2 x 14 A – 28
NOTE – The tolerance values for current take account of an uncertainty of measurement of not greater than ± 1.5%
at a confidence level of not less than 95 %.
In the case of socket-outlets having more than one outlet, the disposition of the plugs shall be so arranged
as to give the most onerous test conditions with regard to the position of terminals and fuses.
In the case of fused socket-outlets in which the number of outlets is greater than two, the test is then
repeated, the total test current being divided equally between each of the test plugs, one inserted into
each set of socket contacts in the socket-outlet.
The socket-outlet is subjected to the loading given in Table 10 for a minimum continuous period of 4 h or
longer until stability is reached with a maximum duration of 8 h, stability being taken as less than 1 K rise
within 1 h.
16.1.3 Rewirable portable socket-outlets are tested with 1000 mm ± 50 mm of 1.25 mm 2 3-core PVC
flexible cable as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5, and non-rewirable portable socket-outlets are tested with
1000 mm ± 50 mm of the flexible cable supplied with them.
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The fuse link, if any, incorporated in the portable socket-outlet is replaced by a calibrated link, constructed
and calibrated in accordance with Annex A.
The portable socket-outlet is placed in its intended position of normal use on a horizontal plywood board
having a nominal thickness of 24 mm and having a surface extending at least 150 mm in each direction
beyond the extremities of the socket-outlet.
A test current appropriate to the flexible cable fitted as given in Table 2 is passed through the portable
socket-outlet by means of a special test plug constructed and calibrated in accordance with Annex G. In
the case of a multiple portable socket-outlet the plug shall be placed in the set of socket contacts
considered to give the most onerous conditions. USB battery charging outlets shall be loaded with their
rated currents ( %) for the duration of this test.The socket-outlet is operated as described for a
minimum continuous period of 4 h or longer until stability is reached with a maximum duration of 8 h,
stability being taken as less than 1 K rise within 1 h.
In the case of a multiple portable socket-outlet, the test is then repeated, the total test current being
divided equally between each of the test plugs, one inserted into each set of socket contacts in the
portable socket-outlet. For portable socket-outlets with more than four outlets, the test shall be performed
with four test plugs inserted into four sets of socket contacts, selected to give the most onerous conditions.
The remaining outlets shall have nothing inserted into them.
16.1.4 Fixed and panel mounted socket-outlets with more than one terminal for line and/or neutral
connections (i.e. internal connections could form part of an external ring circuit) or having screwless
terminals shall be subjected to an additional temperature rise test, as described in 16.1.2 except: incoming
and outgoing conductors (2.5mm² 2-core and earth PVC insulated and sheathed cable as given in Table
4 of BS 6004:2012) are fitted to separate terminals. A test current of 20 A is applied without any plug being
engaged with the socket-outlet.
Following this test, the resistance between each line terminal and between each neutral terminal shall be
measured using a current of 25 00.75 A derived from an a.c. source having a no-load voltage not exceeding
12 V, passed for 60 05 s. The resistance shall not exceed 0.05Ω.
17.1 The breaking capacity of socket contacts, switches, and fuse contacts incorporated in socket-
outlets, shall be adequate.
17.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by the tests described in 17.1.2, 17.1.3 and 17.1.4 as applicable,
which shall be completed with the socket-outlets connected and mounted as in normal use.
17.1.2 The socket contacts shall make and break a current of 1.25 times rated current ± 0.4 A [i.e. (1.25
x 13) ± 0.4 A] in a substantially non-inductive a.c. circuit at 250 V ± 5 V, ten times in succession at intervals
of approximately 30 s, a plug being withdrawn from the socket-outlet at a speed of approximately 150
mm/s immediately after insertion. For the purpose of the test the fuse link may be replaced by a link of
negligible impedance.
After the test, the socket-outlet shall be capable of satisfying the subsequent tests detailed in Table 1 for
the appropriate test sample.
17.1.3 The switch shall make and break a current of 1.25 times rated current ± 0.4 A [i.e. (1.25 x 13) ±
0.4 A] in a substantially non-inductive a.c. circuit at 275 V ± 5 V, ten times in succession at intervals of
approximately 30 s.
After the test, the socket-outlet shall be capable of satisfying the subsequent tests detailed in Table 1 for
the appropriate test sample.
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17.1.4 The fuse contacts shall make and break a current by insertion and removal of a fuse in a
substantially non-inductive a.c. circuit at 275 V ± 5 V, ten times in succession at intervals of approximately
30 s, the values of the current being 1.25 times rated current ± 0.4 A (i.e. (1.25 x 13) ± 0.4 A) for fuses in
single socket-outlets and 1.6 times rated current ± 0.4 A for fuses in multiple socket-outlets. Standard 13
A fuse links in accordance with SS 167 are used for this test, and may be replaced if necessary during
the test. For the test, all metal parts not in contact with line contacts shall be connected to the earth pole
of the test circuit.
After the test, the socket-outlet shall be capable of satisfying the subsequent tests detailed in Table 1 for
the appropriate test sample.
18.1 Socket-outlets shall withstand without excessive wear or other harmful effects, the electrical and
mechanical stresses occurring in use.
18.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by the tests described in 18.1.2 and 18.1.3.
18.1.2 The combination of plugs having solid pins and the socket-outlet under test with the engagement
surface substantially vertical shall make and break their rated current ± 0.4 A at 250 V ± 10 V a.c., 15000
times (30000 movements) in a substantially non-inductive circuit. Each plug is inserted into and withdrawn
from the socket-outlet under test at a rate of approximately six insertions and six withdrawals per minute,
the speed of travel of the plug being approximately 150 mm/s. The periods during which the plug is
inserted and withdrawn are approximately equal. The plug pins are renewed after each 5000 insertions
and withdrawals. For the purpose of this test no lubrication is applied to the plug or socket under test.
After the test the shutter shall be operating satisfactorily, the socket contacts safely shielded and the
socket-outlet shall be in accordance with 9.1, Clause 16, 13.19, Clause 15, 13.4.1a), 10.2, 13.6, 13.7,
13.8. The permitted value of voltage drop described in 13.4.1a) is increased to not greater than 13.4.1 a)
40 mV.
18.1.3 In switched socket-outlets the voltage drop across each switched pole, measured at points
immediately adjacent to the switch, shall not exceed 60 mV at rated current.
The switch shall then make and break a current of 13 A ± 0.4 A at 250 V ± 10 V 15000 times (30000
movements) in a substantially non-inductive a.c. circuit at a rate of approximately six complete cycles per
minute at regular intervals. The periods during which the switch is ‘on' and ‘off' shall be approximately
equal. The means used for operating the switch shall be such as to move the actuating member at a
speed of approximately 300 mm/s both in making and breaking the circuit and shall be so positioned that
the normal action of the mechanism is not interfered with in any way.
At the end of the test, the switch shall be capable of making and breaking the rated current of 13 A ± 0.4 A
at 250 V ± 10 V and the voltage drop across each switched pole, measured as above, shall not exceed
75 mV.
The switch shall also be in accordance with Clause 15, the test voltages of 15.1.3 being reduced by 25 %.
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19.1 Provision shall be made for the entry and effective clamping without bending of 3-core flexible
cables for rewirable portable socket-outlets, as given in Tables 7 and 9 of SS 358-5, having nominal
conductor cross-sectional areas of 1.25 mm2 or 1.5 mm2.
For non-rewirable portable socket-outlets provision shall be made for the entry and adequate retention of
the 3-core flexible cable with which the socket-outlet is supplied.
The cable anchorage shall be such that the conductors are relieved from strain, including twisting, where
they are connected to the terminals or terminations.
The cable anchorage shall contain the sheath. Cable anchorages shall either be of insulating material or
if of metal shall be provided with an insulating lining fixed to the metal parts.
Methods such as tying the flexible cable into a knot or tying the ends with string or the like shall not be
used.
(a) Rewirable portable socket-outlets are fitted with a 3-core flexible cable having a nominal cross-
sectional area of 1.25 mm2 or 1.5 mm2 as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5. The conductors are
introduced into the terminals and the terminal screws tightened to one-third of the torque value
listed in Table 6. The cable anchorage is used in the normal way, the clamping screws, if any,
being tightened to a torque of two-thirds of that given in Table 6. The assembly is then left
untouched for a minimum of 24 h.
After this preparation, it shall not be possible to push the flexible cable into the portable socket-
outlet to such an extent as to impair safety or so that the cable anchorage is loosened.
The flexible cable is then subjected 25 times to the pull given in Table 2. The pulls are applied in
one smooth and continuous motion in the most unfavourable position momentarily. Immediately
afterwards, the flexible cable is subjected for 60 +50 s to the appropriate torque shown in Table 2
at a minimum starting distance of 150mm from the cable entry measured along the length of the
cable.
NOTE – It is not intended that the dimension of 150 mm is maintained during the application of the test
torque.
These tests are then repeated but with the portable socket-outlet fitted with a 3-core flexible cable
having a nominal conductor cross-sectional area of 1.5 mm2 as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5.
(b) For non-rewirable portable socket-outlets the test is carried out with the flexible cable with which
it is supplied, using the appropriate load and torque as given in Table 2. The conductors of the
flexible cable are severed at the point of termination prior to the test.
During this test the insulation of the flexible cable shall not be damaged.
(c) After the tests given in a) and b) the flexible cable shall not have been displaced by more than
2 mm.
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For the measurement of longitudinal displacement a mark is made on the cable whilst it is subjected to
the pull at a distance of approximately 20 mm from the anchorage before starting the tests. After the test
the displacement of the mark on the flexible cable in relation to the cable anchorage is measured whilst
the flexible cable is again subjected to the pull.
19.2 Cable anchorages in rewirable portable socket-outlets shall anchor the flexible cable securely to
the socket-outlet. The design shall ensure the following:
(a) The cable anchorage cannot be released from the outside without the use of a tool;
(b) It shall not be possible to touch cable anchorage screws, if any, with test probe B of
BS EN 61032:1998 when the socket outlet is energised;
(c) The flexible cable is not clamped by a metal part bearing directly on the flexible cable;
(d) At least one part of the anchorage is securely fixed to the socket-outlet;
(e) Clamping the flexible cable does not require the use of a special purpose tool;
(f) The cover may be correctly fitted without damage when the portable socket-outlet is wired with
the largest specified flexible cable and all screws are tightened to the torque specified in Table 6.
19.3 Screws which are used when clamping the flexible cable shall not serve to fix any other
components unless the portable socket-outlet is rendered manifestly incomplete if the component is
omitted or is replaced in an incorrect position, or the component intended to be fixed cannot be removed
without further use of a tool.
19.4 Non-rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be fitted with 1.25mm2 or 1.5 mm2 3-core flexible
cables conforming to Table 9 of SS 358-5. Connections shall be as given in Table 11.
19.5 Non-rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be so designed that the flexible cable is not subjected
to excessive bending where it enters the portable socket-outlet.
19.5.1 Conformity shall be checked by the following test using an apparatus similar to that shown in
Figure 18. The portable socket-outlet is fixed to the oscillating member of the apparatus so that when this
is vertical the axis of the flexible cable at the point of entry is vertical and passes through the axis of
oscillation.
The distance between the point of entry to the portable socket-outlet and the axis of oscillation is adjusted
so that the weight makes the minimum lateral movement as the oscillating member moves. A current
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appropriate to the flexible cable fitted, as given in Table 2, is passed through the line and neutral
conductors, the voltage between them being 250 V ± 10 V a.c. The earthing conductor shall be connected
at one end to the neutral conductor.
The oscillating member is moved backwards and forwards through an angle of 45o ± 3o on either side of
the vertical, the number of flexings being 10000 at a rate of 60 -10
0
per minute. After 5000 flexings, socket-
outlets are turned through 90o ± 5o about the cable entry centreline.
During the test there shall be no interruption of the current passing through the conductors and no short
circuit between them.
After the test the sample shall show no damage except that breakage of no more than 10% of the total
number of conductor strands in any core is ignored provided they have not pierced the insulation.
19.6 The flexible cable entry to rewirable portable socket-outlets shall be so shaped as to prevent
damage to the flexible cable.
19.7L Flexible cables if fitted to portable socket-outlets shall not exceed 6 m in length and shall be 1.25 mm2
or 1.5 mm2 in conductor cross-sectional area.
In the case of unswitched portable socket-outlets, they shall be subject to the following conditions:
(b) There shall be sufficient marking to indicate that the cable used shall not exceed 3 m.
20 Mechanical strength
20.1 Socket-outlets shall have adequate mechanical strength and be so constructed as to withstand
such handling as may be expected in normal use.
20.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by the tests described in 20.1.2, 20.1.3, 20.1.4, and 20.1.5 as
appropriate.
Any decorative cover, cover plates or parts thereof, not providing protection against electric shock, shall
be removed prior to testing.
20.1.2 A solid link of stainless steel as shown in Figure 19 is inserted and withdrawn from the fuse clips
of a fused socket-outlet 20 times in succession in a normal manner at a rate not exceeding ten per minute.
A standard fuse link conforming to SS 167 is then fitted and the appropriate mechanical strength test
completed.
20.1.3 Fixed panel mounted socket-outlets are tested with the impact test apparatus shown in Figure
21a). The pendulum consists of a steel tube with an external diameter of 9 mm nominal and a wall
thickness of 0.5 mm nominal suspended in such a way that it swings only in a vertical plane. A hammer
is rigidly fixed to the lower end.
The striking element has a hemispherical face made of polyamide having a Rockwell hardness of 85
HRR 100, or hornbeam, and a radius of 10 mm ± 0.5 mm [see Figure 21b)]. The design of the apparatus
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is such that a force of between 1.9 N and 2 N has to be applied to the face of the hammer to maintain the
pendulum in a horizontal position.
The socket-outlet is mounted on a sheet of plywood approximately 8 mm thick and 175 mm square,
secured at its top and bottom edges to a mounting support.
The mounting support [see Figure 21c)], having a mass of 10 kg ± 1 kg, is mounted on a rigid bracket by
means of pivots. The bracket is mounted on a frame which is fixed to a solid wall.
(a) the sample can be so placed that the point of impact lies in the vertical plane through the axis of
the pendulum pivot;
(b) the sample can be moved horizontally and turned about an axis perpendicular to the surface of
the plywood;
Flush socket-outlets and their boxes (if any) are placed in a block of hardwood which is itself fixed to the
sheet of plywood.
The wood used shall have the direction of the wood fibres perpendicular to the direction of impact.
To simulate the condition of normal use the rear of the plate is flush with the surface of the block. The
front edge of the box is between 2.5 mm and 5 mm behind the face of the block.
The socket-outlet is placed so that the point of impact lies in the vertical plane through the axis of the pivot
of the pendulum. For all tests the hammer falls from a height 150 -50 mm measured vertically between
the point of impact on the sample and the face of the hammer at the point of release. Ten blows are
applied to points evenly distributed over the socket-outlet. Any lens incorporated in a socket-outlet
receives one blow of the hammer at a point approximately at its centre. One of the ten blows of the
hammer is applied to the actuating member, if any. For socket-outlets that have an IP classification higher
than IPX0 the test is carried out with any lid open. The lid is then closed,
and an additional three blows in total applied to the most onerous points of the lid.
NOTE – The test sample might need to be rotated through 180° to prevent the lid interfering with the impact hammer
for tests with lid open.
After the test the socket-outlet shall still be in accordance with Clauses 8, 9 and 15 and, for socket-outlets
having an IP classification greater than IP20, shall show no damage which impairs its ingress protection.
After the test on a lens, the lens may be cracked and/or dislodged but it shall not be possible to touch live
parts using the test pin shown in Figure 1 applied with a maximum force of 5 N, applied in accordance
with 9.1.1.
Damage to the finish, small dents which do not reduce creepage distances and clearances below the
values specified in Clause 8 and small chips that do not adversely affect the protection against electric
shock or moisture shall be ignored.
Cracks not visible with normal or corrected vision without additional magnification, and surface cracks in
fibre-reinforced mouldings and the like shall be ignored.
20.1.4 Rewirable single and twin portable socket-outlets are fitted with 3-core PVC 1.25 mm2 flexible
cable as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5, the terminals and cover screws being tightened with the torque in
Table 6. Non-rewirable single and twin portable socket-outlets are tested as delivered.
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The flexible cables attached to socket-outlets are cut to a length of 150 mm ± 5 mm measured from the
nearest edge of the socket-outlet, precoiled flexible cables being extended before measurement.
They are tested in the tumbling barrel shown in Figure 20. The barrel is turned at a rate of approximately
5 r/min (approximately ten drops per minute).
After the test the portable socket-outlet shall show no external damage which might affect the safety and
no components shall have become detached.
Conformity shall be checked by inspection and the test described in 13.4.1b) and Clauses 15 and 16.
Small chips and dents which do not adversely affect the protection against electric shock shall be ignored.
For the repeat test in accordance with Clause 16, the attached flexible cable is retained without disturbing
the terminal connections, but the conductor insulation and sheath are removed only as far as is necessary
for the attachment of a 1000 mm ± 50 mm length of flexible cable of the same type as that already attached
to the socket-outlet, the connection being made by means of a connector having a current rating
appropriate to that of the flexible cable.
20.1.5 Rewirable portable socket-outlets with more than two outlets are fitted with 3-core 1.25 mm2
flexible cable as given in Table 9 of SS 358-5.
The free end of the flexible cable which is approximately 2250 mm long is fixed to a wall at a height of
400 -100 mm above the floor, as shown in Figure 22. The sample is held so that the cable is approximately
horizontal and then it is allowed to fall on to a concrete floor eight times, the flexible cable being rotated
through approximately 45o at its fixing each time.
After the test, the socket-outlet shall show no external damage which might affect the safety, no
components shall have become detached and the portable socket-outlet shall satisfy the tests described
in 13.4.1b) and Clauses 15 and 16. For the repeat test in accordance with Clause 16 the attached flexible
cable is reduced to 1000 mm ± 50 mm without disturbing the terminal connections.
Small chips and dents which do not adversely affect the protection against electric shock are ignored.
21.1 Screwed connections, electrical and otherwise, shall withstand the mechanical stresses occurring
in normal use. Screws directly transmitting electrical contact pressure shall screw into metal. Screws
shall not be of metal which is soft and liable to creep.
Screws shall not be of insulating material if their replacement by a metal screw would affect the safety or
performance requirements of the socket-outlet.
Contact pressure in electrical connections within the socket-outlet and between the socket-outlet and the
cable or flexible cable connected to it shall not be transmitted through insulating material other than
ceramic, pure mica or other material with characteristics no less suitable, unless there is sufficient
resiliency in the metallic parts to compensate for any possible shrinkage or yielding of the insulating
material.
NOTE – The suitability of the material is considered in respect of the stability of the dimensions under all conditions
of normal use especially in view of shrinking, ageing or cold flow of the insulating part.
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21.1.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and, for screws and nuts which are intended to be
tightened during installation, or use, or during replacement of a fuse link by the following test.
(a) Ten times for screws in engagement with a thread of insulating material, the screw being
completely removed and replaced each time;
When testing terminal screws and nuts a 1.5 mm2 flexible conductor is placed in the terminal in the case
of portable socket-outlets, and a 2.5 mm2 solid conductor is placed in the terminal in the case of fixed
socket-outlets. The conductor is moved each time the screw is loosened. The test is made by means of
a suitable test screwdriver, applying a torque as given in Table 6 in one smooth and continuous motion.
The shape of the blade of the test screwdriver shall suit the head of the screw being tested.
During the test no damage impairing the further use of the screwed connection shall occur.
21.2 Thread-cutting and/or thread-forming screws shall not be used for the making of current-carrying
or earth continuity connections.
Screws which make a mechanical connection between different parts of the socket-outlet shall be locked
against loosening, if the connection carries current.
Rivets used for current-carrying or earth continuity connections shall be locked against loosening, if these
connections are subject to torsion in normal use which is likely to loosen the connection.
NOTE 1 – Spring washers and the like may provide satisfactory locking.
21.3 Current-carrying parts and earthing contacts shall be of brass, copper, phosphor-bronze or other
metal at least equivalent with regard to its conductivity, resistance to abrasion and resistance to corrosion,
except for screws, nuts, washers, clamping plates and similar parts of terminals, nor to parts of socket-
outlets used for earth continuity purposes.
21.3.1 Conformity shall be checked by inspection and by the relevant tests described in 10.2, 10.3,
Clause 16 and Clause 24.
22 Resistance to heat
Parts made from rubber or ceramics in fixed socket-outlets shall not be subjected to these tests.
22.1.2 For complete socket-outlets and for separate ancillary components samples are kept for
0 min in a heating cabinet maintained at the following temperature:
60 +5
(a) 70oC ± 5oC for portable socket-outlets, mounting boxes, separate covers and separate cover
plates;
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During the test they shall not undergo any change impairing their further use and the sealing compound
shall not flow to such an extent that live parts are exposed.
After the test the socket-outlet shall still conform to 9.2.1 and 15.1.3, and it shall not be possible to touch
live parts with test probe 11 of BS EN 61032:1998 applied with a force of 30 -20 N .
22.1.3 Portable socket-outlets with external parts of resilient material, e.g. thermoplastics and rubber,
are subjected to a pressure test by means of an apparatus similar to that shown in Figure 23, the test
being made in a heating cabinet at a temperature of 70 oC ± 5 oC.
The socket-outlet is clamped between the jaws in such a way that these press against it in the area where
it is gripped in normal use, the centreline of the jaws coinciding as nearly as possible with the centre of
this area.
The force applied through and including the effect of the jaws is 20 0
-1 N.
After s jaws are removed and the socket-outlets shall satisfy the tests described in 15.1.2b)1) and
15.1.3 and shall accept the gauge of Figure 11.
22.2 Parts of insulating material shall be sufficiently resistant to heat having particular regard to their
location and function in the complete socket-outlet.
(b) External parts of socket-outlets tested according to 22.1.3, are deemed to conform without further
testing;
(c) All other parts of insulating material shall be subjected to the ball pressure test in accordance with
BS EN 60695-10-2:2014.
For parts of insulating material necessary to retain current-carrying parts in position and the material
forming the front surface of fixed and portable socket-outlets, within a zone of 2 mm around line and
neutral pin entry holes, the test temperature shall be125oC ± 5oC.
For parts of insulating material not necessary to retain current-carrying parts in position, even though they
may be in contact with them, the test temperature shall be 75oC ± 5oC for fixed and portable socket-outlets.
22.2.2L The surface of the part to be tested is placed in the horizontal position and the apparatus shown
in Figure 24L is placed on this surface such that a force of 20 -10 N is applied.
The underside of the part being tested is supported to withstand the test force and to minimise the risk of
distortion.
The test load and the supporting means are placed within the heating cabinet for a sufficient time to ensure
they have attained the stabilised testing temperature before the test commences.
The part to be tested is placed in the heating cabinet, for a period of at least 10 min, before the test load
is applied.
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After 60 +10 min the ball is removed from the specimen which is then cooled down, by immersion for at
least 10 s in water at approximately room temperature. The diameter of the impression caused by the ball
is measured and shall not exceed 2 mm.
23.1 General
The test is performed in accordance with BS EN 60695-2-11:2014 and at the test temperature given in
Table 12.
NOTE – If the test specified is required to be made at more than one place on the same sample, it is essential that
care is taken to ensure that any deterioration caused by previous tests does not affect the result of the test to be
made.
Small parts (see 3.39), parts of insignificant mass (see 3.38), parts unlikely to be subjected to abnormal
heat and parts whose failure to pass these tests would not materially affect the safety of the socket-outlet
are not subjected to this glow-wire test.
The glow-wire test is applied to ensure that an electrically heated test wire under defined test conditions
does not cause ignition of insulating parts or to ensure that a part of insulating material which might be
ignited by the heated test wire under defined conditions, has a limited time to burn without spreading fire
by flame or burning parts or droplets falling down from the tested part onto a pinewood board covered
with tissue paper.
The test sample shall be either a complete socket-outlet or, if the test cannot be made on a complete
socket-outlet, a suitable part may be cut from one for the purpose of the test.
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The sample shall be positioned during the test in the most unfavourable position of its intended use (with
the surface tested in a vertical position).
The tip of the glow-wire shall be applied to the specified surface of the sample taking into account the
conditions of the intended use under which a heated or glowing element may come into contact with the
sample.
The sample shall be regarded as having passed the glow-wire test if any of the following apply:
(b) Flames and glowing at the sample extinguish within 30 s after the removal of the glow-wire;
There shall be no ignition of the tissue paper nor scorching of the board.
24.1 Press-formed or similar current-carrying parts of copper alloy containing less than 80 % of copper
shall be resistant to failure in use due to stress corrosion.
The sample is degreased in a suitable alkaline degreasing solution or organic solvent, then immersed in
an aqueous solution of mercurous nitrate containing 10 g of Hg2 (NO3)2 and ten moles of HNO3 (relative
density 1.42) per litre of solution for 30 min ± 1 min at a temperature of 27 oC ± 5 oC.
NOTE – Attention is drawn to the fact that due precautions should be taken when using these liquids as they are toxic.
After the treatment the sample is washed in running water, any excess mercury wiped off, and the sample
is immediately visually examined.
There shall be no cracks visible with normal or corrected vision without additional magnification.
24.2 Ferrous parts, the rusting of which might cause the socket-outlet to become unsafe, shall be
adequately protected against rusting.
The sample is degreased in a suitable alkaline degreasing solution or organic solvent; the parts are then
immersed for 10 min ± 0.5 min in a 10% solution of ammonium chloride in water at a temperature of
27 oC ± 5o C.
Without drying but after shaking off any drops, the parts are placed for 10 min ± 0.5 min in a box containing
air saturated with moisture at a temperature of 20 oC ± 5 oC. After the parts have been dried for at least
10 min in a heating cabinet at a temperature of 100 oC ± 5 oC their surfaces shall show no signs of rust.
NOTE 1 – Traces of rust on sharp edges and any yellowish film removable by rubbing should be ignored.
NOTE 2 – For small helical springs and the like, and for parts exposed to abrasion, a layer of grease may provide
sufficient protection against rusting. Such parts are only subjected to the test if there is doubt about the effectiveness
of the grease film and the test should then be made without previous removal of the grease.
25 Not used
26 Not used
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Figure 2a – Apparatus for mechanical strength test on resilient covers (see Clause 9)
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Figure 13 – Test apparatus and circuit for use with contact and non-contact gauges (see Clause 13)
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Figure 16a – Withdrawal pull gauges for effectiveness of contact: Gauge for earthing
socket contact (see Clause 13)
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Figure 16b – Withdrawal pull gauges for effectiveness of contact: Gauge for line and neutral
current-carrying socket contacts (see Clause 13)
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Figure 19 – Solid link for test on fuse clips (see Clause 20)
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Figure 21a – Pendulum impact test: General view of apparatus (see Clause 20)
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Figure 21b – Pendulum impact test: Constructional details of striking elements (see Clause 20)
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Figure 22 – Arrangements for mechanical strength test for portable socket-outlets (see Clause 20)
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Annex A
(normative)
A.1 Construction
The calibrated link (see Figure 28) shall employ the following components used to produce fuses
conforming to SS 167:
The resistive element shall be of copper nickel wire having a resistivity value between 44 .cm and 49
.cm. The overall length shall be 25.4 +0.8
-0.4 mm and the diameter such as to allow a small reduction in
the cross-sectional area to adjust the watts loss to the required value. The ends are turned down so that
the distance between the shoulders so formed shall be 25.4 +0.8 -0.4 mm less twice the end cap end wall
The resistive element shoulders shall be firmly butted to the inside faces of the end caps and soldered
using a tin silver solder, grade 96S as specified in BS 219:1977. The assembly thus formed (see Figure
28c) shall be checked for watts loss in accordance with A.2. Metal shall then be carefully filed from the
resistive element over as long a length as is possible and the assembly rechecked until the desired watts
loss is achieved.
One end cap shall then be unsoldered, a standard ceramic body fitted, the cavity filled and the end cap
resoldered in position making sure the shoulder of the element is butted to the inside face of the end cap
(the ceramic body shall not interfere with this condition) see Figure 28d).
The watts loss shall be rechecked in accordance with A.2 and adjusted if necessary.
The resulting calibrated link shall be marked ‘NOT A FUSE’ on the ceramic body and shall dimensionally
be in accordance with SS 167.
A.2 Calibration
The calibration jig shown in Figure 29 is mounted horizontally approximately 25 mm above a wooden
board by means of two ceramic pillars. A fine wire thermocouple is attached to the centre of each fuse
contact clip, on the outside of the top edge, in such a way that it does not interfere with the contact area.
The thermocouples are taken out of the box in slots cut in one end of the jig base, the width of the slots
just being sufficient to accept the diameter of the thermocouples. The connection to the jig base shall be
by means of PVC insulated single-core copper cables, 0.3 m ± 0.05 m in length and 2.5 mm2 cross section.
The surroundings shall be free from draughts and the ambient air temperature, measured by a suitable
thermometer or thermocouple at a horizontal distance of 1 m to 2 m from the calibrated link, shall be in
the range of 15oC to 25oC. The calibrated link shall be inserted into the clips provided in the calibration
jig and the cover replaced. A current of 13 A ± 0.1 A is then passed continuously through the calibrated
link for 60 min ± 5 min. At the end of this time the temperatures measured by the thermocouples are
noted, the cover of the jig is then removed and the millivolt drop between the end surfaces of the end caps
of the calibrated link is measured whilst it is still carrying the test current.
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(a) The product of the measured millivolt drop multiplied by the test current gives a result of
0.00
1 -0.05 W;
(b) The temperature difference between the fuse contact clips does not exceed 2 oC.
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Annex B
(normative)
The width X specified in Examples 1 to 11 apply to all examples as a function of the pollution degree as
given in Table B.1.
If the associated clearance is less than 3 mm, the minimum groove width may be reduced to one third of
this clearance.
The methods of measuring creepage distances and clearances are indicated in the following Examples 1
to 11. These cases do not differentiate between gaps and grooves or between types of insulation.
– Any recess is assumed to be bridged with an insulating link having a length equal to the specified
width X and being placed in the most unfavourable position (see Example 3);
– Where the distance across a groove is equal to or larger than the specified width X, the creepage
distance is measured along the contours of the groove (see Example 2);
– Creepage distances and clearances measured between parts which can assume different
positions in relation to each other, are measured when these parts are in their most unfavourable
position.
----------------- clearance
creepage distance
All dimensions are in millimetres
Example 1
Condition: Path under consideration includes a parallel- or converging sided groove of any depth
with a width less than “X” mm.
Rule: Creepage distance and clearance are measured directly across the groove as shown.
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Example 2
Condition: Path under consideration includes a parallel-sided groove of any depth and with a
depth equal to or greater than “X” mm.
Rule: Clearance is the “line of sight” distance. Creepage path follows the contour of the
groove.
Example 3
Condition: Path under consideration includes a V-shaped groove with a width greater than “X”
mm.
Rule: Clearance is the “line of sight” distance. Creepage path follows the contour of the
groove but “short-circuits” the bottom of the groove by an “X” mm link.
Example 4
Rule: Clearance is the shortest direct air path over the top of the rib. Creepage path follows
the contour of the rib.
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Example 5
Condition: Path under consideration includes an uncemented joint with grooves less than “X” mm
wide on each side.
Rule: Creepage and clearance path is the “line of sight” distance shown.
Example 6
Condition: Path under consideration includes an uncemented joint with grooves equal to or more
than “X” mm wide on each side.
Rule: Clearance path is the “line of sight” distance. Creepage follows the contour of the
grooves.
Example 7
Condition: Path under consideration includes an uncemented joint with groove on one side less
than “X” mm wide and the groove on the other side equal to or more than “X” mm wide.
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Example 8
Condition: Path under consideration includes a barrier with an uncemented joint. The creepage
distance through uncemented joint is less than creepage distance over barrier.
Rule: Clearance is the shortest direct air path over the top of the barrier. The creepage path
follows the contour of the joint.
Example 9
Condition: Gap between head of screw and wall of recess wide enough to be taken into account
(greater than or equal to “X” mm).
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Example 10
Condition: Gap between head of screw and wall of recess too narrow to be taken into account
(less than “X” mm).
Rule Measurement of clearance and creepage distance is from the screw head to the point
on the wall which is at a distance equal to “X” mm (as shown).
Example 11
Condition: Path under consideration includes a floating part, C, with different sized grooves either
side, each greater than or equal to “X” mm.
Rule: Clearance and creepage distance paths are both distance d +D.
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Annex C
(normative)
(b) The test solution “A” described in 7.3 of BS EN 60112 :2003 + A1:2009 shall be used.
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Annex D
(normative)
Nominal voltage of the supply Voltage line to neutral derived Rated impulse withstand
system based on IEC 60038 A) from nominal voltages a.c. or d.c. voltage
up to and including
V V V
Overvoltage category
I II III
NOTE 3 – Socket-outlets fall into Overvoltage Category III. Parts of socket-outlets where appropriate
overvoltage reduction is provided fall into Overvoltage Category I. Energy consuming equipment falls into
Overvoltage Category II.
A) The / mark indicates a four-wire three-phase distribution system. The lower value is the voltage line-to-neutral,
while the higher value is the voltage line-to-line.
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Annex E
(normative)
Pollution degree
The micro-environment determines the effect of pollution on the insulation. The macro-environment,
however, shall be taken into account when considering the micro-environment.
Means may be provided to reduce pollution at the insulation under consideration by effective use of
enclosures, encapsulation or hermetic sealing. Such means to reduce pollution may not be effective when
the PT-system is subject to condensation or if, in normal operation, it generates pollutants itself.
Small clearances can be bridged completely by solid particles, dust and water and therefore minimum
clearances are specified where pollution may be present in the micro-environment.
NOTE – Pollution will become conductive in the presence of humidity. Pollution caused by contaminated water, soot,
metal or carbon dust is inherently conductive.
For the purpose of evaluating creepage distances and clearances, the following three degrees of pollution
in the micro-environment are established.
– Pollution degree 1
No pollution or only dry, non-conductive pollution occurs. The pollution has no influence.
– Pollution degree 2
Only non-conductive pollution occurs except that occasionally a temporary conductivity caused
by condensation is to be expected.
– Pollution degree 3
Conductive pollution occurs or dry non-conductive pollution occurs which becomes conductive
due to condensation which is to be expected.
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Annex F
(normative)
The purpose of this test is to verify that clearances will withstand specified transient overvoltage.
The impulse withstand voltage test shall be carried out with a voltage having a 1.2/50 µS waveform as
specified in BS EN 61180-1:1995, Section 6 and is intended to simulate overvoltage of atmospheric origin.
It also covers overvoltages due to switching of low-voltage equipment.
The test shall be conducted for a minimum of three impulses of each polarity with an interval of at least
1 s between pulses. There shall be no discharges during the test. Glow discharges without a drop in
voltage shall be ignored.
For solid insulation and for clearances not checked by measurement, the impulse withstand voltage
shall be applied between:
(c) each switched pole terminal of a switched socket-outlet with the switch contacts open.
NOTE 1 – The output impedance of the impulse generator should be not higher than 500 Ω.
NOTE 2 – The expression “discharge” is used to cover the phenomena associated with the failure of insulation
under electric stress, which include current flow and a drop in voltage.
– The waveform 1.2/50 µS for the no load voltage with amplitudes equal to the values given in
Table F.1;
NOTE 3 – If the sample is provided with surge suppression, the impulse voltage wave may be chopped but the sample
should be in a condition to operate normally again after the test. If the sample is not provided with surge suppression
and it withstands the impulse voltage, the waveform will not be noticeably distorted.
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0.5 0.55
0.8 0.91
1.5 1.75
2.5 2.95
4.0 4.8
6.0 7.3
NOTE 1 – When testing clearances, associated solid insulation will be subjected to the test voltage. As the impulse
test voltage of Table F.1 is increased with respect to the rated impulse withstand voltage, solid insulation will have
to be designed accordingly. This results in an increased impulse withstand capability of the solid insulation.
NOTE 2 – The test may be made with the pressure adjusted to the value corresponding to the altitude of 2000 m
(80 kPa) and 20oC with the test voltage corresponding to the rated impulse withstand voltage. In this case, solid
insulation will not be subjected to the same withstand requirements as when testing at sea level.
NOTE 3 – Explanations concerning the influencing factors (air pressure, altitude, temperature, humidity) with
respect to electric strength of clearances are given in BS EN 60664-1:2007.
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Annex G
(normative)
G.1 General
The test plug consists of a body made from insulating material and pins of brass. The pin dimensions and
centres are as shown in Figure 4 of SS 145-1.
Inside the test plug a ceramic-covered wire-wound resistor is clamped to the line pin making no electrical
contact between the pin and the resistor element, though good thermal contact is essential. Thermal
contact compound shall be used on the interface between the ceramic resistor body and the metal clamp.
The M3.5 clamp screw shall be tightened to a torque of 0.2 N.m ± 0.02 N.m. The resistor leads pass
through the sides or cover of the test plug. Approximately 1000 mm of 3-core flexible cable as given in
Table 9 of SS 358-5 with nominal cross section 1.25 mm2 is connected to the plug by soldering the line
and neutral cores to their respective plug-pins. The earth core of the flexible cable is not fitted to the earth
pin. Details are shown in Figure 30.
G.2 Calibration
The test plug is mounted in the dummy front plate (see Figure 17 in SS 145-1) and the test carried out in
accordance with 16.1.2 with 14 A ± 0.2 A flowing through the flexible cable attached to the plug. At the
same time a separate low voltage d.c. supply is connected to the resistor and the voltage adjusted until
the temperature rise on the plug-pin spacer stabilises at 35 K ± 1 K. The value of the voltage applied to
the resistor is noted. The calibration voltage is applied to the resistor when checking the temperature rise
of a socket-outlet.
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Annex H
(informative)
Table H.1 Specific structure of BS EN 50525 and its derivation from British Standards and from
HD 21 and HD 22 (BS EN 50525-1:2011, National Annex NA)
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Annex I
(normative)
I.1 General
Incorporated electronic components shall conform to their relevant standard(s).
NOTE – Conformity with a standard for the relevant component does not necessarily ensure conformity with this
standard.
NOTE – Inherently benign components do not normally generate electromagnetic disturbances. Examples of
inherently benign components are LED indicators, diodes, resistors, varistors, capacitors, surge suppressors,
inductors. This list is not exhaustive.
No additional EMC immunity or emission tests are required if the following conditions are fulfilled.
(a) the incorporated devices and components conform to the requirements for EMC as required by
the relevant product or generic EMC standard.
(b) the internal installation and wiring is carried out in accordance with the devices and component
manufacturer’s instructions (arrangement with regard to mutual influences, cable, screening,
earthing etc.).
In all other cases the EMC requirements are to be verified by tests, in particular
as per BS EN 61000-6-1:2007; and BS EN 61000-6-3:2007+A1:2011.
I.3.1 General
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The following requirements relating to the appropriate use of the component or subassembly in the
socket-outlet shall be met.
The input voltage rating of the USB circuit shall not be marked on the socket-outlet and shall not be
less than the rated voltage of the socket-outlet.
The following marking shall be visible after the socket-outlet has been installed as in normal use:
– symbol for nature of supply, for d.c. only;
– rated current, in milliamperes or amperes; and
– rated output voltage.
Overcurrent protection shall be provided on the primary side of the USB circuit.
Where overcurrent protection is not provided within the USB circuit itself, provision shall be made for
appropriate overcurrent protection in the supply to the USB circuit within the socket-outlet. The USB
circuit shall not rely on the building or installation protection device for overcurrent protection.
NOTE – Provision for overcurrent protection provided within the USB circuit can be verified by reference to the
original test report.
A single overcurrent protection device shall be provided and it shall be located in the line circuit, either
within the USB circuit or in the supply to the USB circuit within the socket-outlet.
Double or reinforced insulation shall be provided between the primary and secondary circuits of the
USB circuit. The output of the USB circuit shall be SELV or equivalent.
When installed in the socket-outlet, double or reinforced insulation shall be provided between the
primary circuit and accessible parts of the socket-outlet.
The USB circuit shall be designed and constructed to conform to the requirements of Overvoltage
Category III. USB circuits of Overvoltage Category II can be used where additional overvoltage
protection is provided within the socket-outlet i.e. a varistor or equivalent.
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NOTE 1 – USB circuits are generally tested as Overvoltage Category II whereas socket-outlets are Overvoltage
Category III.
The requirement in BS EN 60950-1:2006+A2:2013 for the provision of a disconnect device shall not
apply.
NOTE –The disconnect device specified in BS EN 60950-1:2006+A2:2013 is for servicing purposes and is achieved
by disconnection of the socket-outlet from the low voltage supply for fixed socket-outlets and by disconnection by
the plug for portable socket-outlets.
The requirements of SS 145-2, Clause 20 shall be applied to the USB circuit when incorporated in the
socket-outlet. The mechanical strength requirements of BS EN 60950-1:2006+A2:2013 are not
applicable.
Method 2: Assessment and testing of all possible single fault tests shall be applied. In this case a fire
enclosure is not required for equipment or that portion of equipment for which testing of all relevant
components in both primary circuits and secondary circuits has been carried out.
Whichever method is selected, the material requirements of SS 145-2, Clauses 22 and 23 are also
applicable.
USB circuits intended for charging portable devices shall conform to the requirements for dedicated
charging ports (DCP) of BS EN 62680-1-1:2015.
I.3.5 Conformity
I.4.1 General
Surge protective devices incorporated in SS 145-2 socket-outlets shall conform to the requirements in
I.4.2.
NOTE 1 – The use of SPDs, variously known as voltage dependant resistors (VDRs), gas discharge tubes,
avalanche breakdown diodes and similar devices, might have particular applications and restrictions in their use in
many safety standards. Restrictions are applied where the disconnection of earth is possible as a single fault
condition (applicable for example, to domestic pluggable equipment). The slow deterioration of surge protection
devices with time might result in an increase in leakage current. This can cause a permanent and continuously
increasing temperature stress, which can cause the component to burn or burst, and thus SPDs/VDRs are regarded
as potential safety hazards.
NOTE 2 – This annex does not cover comprehensive type testing which is specified in the BS EN 61643 series.
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I.4.2 Requirements
The following types of SPD of the appropriate category shall be considered acceptable:
– metal oxide varistors conforming to BS EN 61643-331:2003;
– gas discharge tubes conforming to BS EN 61643-311:2013;
– avalanche breakdown diodes conforming to BS EN 61643-321:2002.
VDRs conforming to BS IEC 61051-2:1992+A1:2009 and having the following characteristics shall be
considered acceptable:
I.4.3 Conformity
A circuit interrupting device having adequate breaking capacity shall be connected in series with the
VDR to provide protection against:
(c) burning and bursting of the VDR in the event of a short-circuit fault.
1) Between L and N
Where not protected by a BS 1362:1973 fuse, a circuit interrupting device having adequate
breaking capacity shall be incorporated within the product in series with the VDR.
2) Between L and E
Where not protected by a BS 1362:1973 fuse a VDR is permitted between line and protective
earth provided it is located in series with a circuit interrupting device having adequate breaking
capacity, and is connected in series with a spark gap/gas tube meeting the requirements for
basic insulation.
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I.4.5 Conformity
I.5.1 General
I.5.2 Conformity
I.6.1L General
Remote monitoring circuit incorporated into a socket-outlet shall conform to the requirements
of:
IEC 60950-1:2005+A1:2009+A2:2013; or
IEC 62368-1:2014;
In addition, the circuit shall be tested to Clause 8.1 of IEC 62053-21, or IEC 62053-22 or IEC 62053-23
to meet the accuracy class declared by manufacturer or by conformity evidence.
The circuit shall be tested as a component or sub assembly and when incorporated into the socket-
outlet the circuit shall meet the requirements.
When installed in the socket-outlet, double or reinforced insulation shall be provided between the
primary circuit and accessible parts of the socket-outlet.
The circuit shall be designed and constructed to conform to the requirements of Overvoltage
Category III. The circuits of Overvoltage Category II can be used where additional overvoltage
protection is provided within the socket-outlet i.e. a varistor or equivalent.
NOTE – IEC 60664 gives guidance on the use of appropriate overvoltage reduction.
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Method 2: Assessment and testing of all possible single fault tests shall be applied. In this case a fire
enclosure is not required for equipment or that portion of equipment for which testing of all relevant
components in both primary circuits and secondary circuits has been carried out.
Whichever method is selected, the material requirements of SS 145-2, Clauses 22 and 23 are also
applicable.
I.6.9L Conformity
Conformity to I.6.1 to I.6.8 shall be checked and inspected of conformity evidence or by test.
I.6.11L Marking
Socket-outlets incorporating remote monitoring circuits intended for energy measurement shall be
legibly and durably marked with “remote monitor” on the accessible external surface in normal use.
Conformity shall be checked by the test of SS 145-2, Clause 7.1.1.
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Bibliography
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 638-4, Arc welding power sources, equipment and accessories – Part 4: Specification for welding
cables
BS 1362:1973, Specification for general purpose fuse links for domestic and similar purposes (primarily
for use in plugs)
BS 1363:1984, Specification for 13 A fused plugs and switches and unswitched socket outlets
BS 1363-1:2016, 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units – Part 1: Specification for
rewirable and non-rewirable 13 A fused plugs
BS 1363-1:2016, 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units – Part 1: Specification for
adaptors
BS 1363-4:2016, 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units – Part 4: Specification for
13 A fused connection units switches and unswitched
BS 1363-5:2016, 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units – Part 5: Specification for
fused conversion plugs
BS 2572:1990, Specification for phenolic laminated sheet and epoxy cotton fabric laminated sheet
BS 6004:2012, Electrical cables – PVC insulated and PVC sheathed cables for voltages up to and
including 300V/500 V, for electric power and lighting
BS 6007, Electrical cables – Single core unsheathed heat resisting cables for voltages up to and
including 450/750 V, for internal wiring
BS 6500, Electrical cables – Flexible cords rated up to 300/500 V, for use with appliances and
equipment intended for domestic, office and similar environments
BS 7211, Electrical cables – Thermosetting insulated and thermoplastic sheathed cables for voltages
up to and including 450/750 V for electric power and lighting and having low emission of smoke and
corrosive gases when affected by fire
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intended for industrial and similar environments
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connection of class II-equipment for household and similar purposes
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including 450/750 V (U0/U) – Part 1: General requirements
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including 450/750 V (U0/U) – Part 2-11: Cables for general applications – Flexible cables with
thermoplastic PVC insulation
BS EN 50525-2-12:2011, Electrical cables – Low voltage energy cables of rated voltages up to and
including 450/750 V (U0/U) – Part 2-12: Cables for general applications – Cables with thermoplastic
PVC insulation for extensible leads
BS EN 50525-2-21:2011, Electrical cables – Low voltage energy cables of rated voltages up to and
including 450/750 V (U0/U) – Part 2-21: Cables for general applications – Flexible cables with
crosslinked elastomeric insulation
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including 450/750 V (U0/U) – Part 2-71: Cables for general applications – Flat tinsel cables (cords) with
thermoplastic PVC insulation
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requirements and test circuits for gas discharges tubes (GDT)
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for active energy (classes 0,2 S and 0,5 S)
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Enterprise Singapore grows stronger enterprises by transforming industries, building new capabilities,
and providing Singapore companies access to global opportunities.
We also establish Singapore as a leading global trading hub, and strengthen quality and trust in
Singapore’s enterprises, products and services.
Through this, we aim to create good jobs for our people and sustainable growth for our economy.
Enterprise Singapore is the national standards body in Singapore and we administer the Singapore
Standardisation Programme. We are vested with the authority to appoint an industry-led Singapore
Standards Council to approve the establishment, review and withdrawal of Singapore Standards (SSs)
and Technical References (TRs). The Standards Council also advises Enterprise Singapore on the
policies, strategies, initiatives and procedures for standards development and promotion.
Enterprise Singapore and the Standards Council collaborate with key stakeholders from industry and
government agencies to identify and develop new standards as well as review existing standards to
enhance the competitiveness of enterprises and support social, safety, health and environment
initiatives in Singapore.
SSs and TRs are in the form of specifications for materials, products, services and systems, codes of
practice, requirements for interoperability, methods of test, management systems, guidelines,
nomenclatures, etc.
TRs are pre-SSs developed to address urgent industry demand and are issued for industry trials for a
period of time. Comments received during this trial period are considered when a TR is reviewed. TRs
can become SS after the trial period, continue as TRs for further industry trials or be withdrawn.
To ensure adequate viewpoints are considered in the development and review of SSs and TRs,
committees and working groups set up by the Standards Council consist of representatives from
various key stakeholders which include industry associations, professional bodies, academia,
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committee for Standards and Conformance (SCSC), the Pacific Area Standards Congress (PASC) and
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Committee of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), which is supported by Enterprise
Singapore, represents Singapore in the IEC.
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