Description of BS 1363-2:2016+A1:2018 2018

This part of BS 1363 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 BS 1363‑1:2016. Additional requirements are included for socket-outlets suitable for electric vehicle charging.

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 BS 6004:2012 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 the relevant part of BS EN 50525. Socket‑outlets incorporating fuse links, switches and indicator lamps are included within the scope of this part of BS 1363. Socket‑outlets incorporating electronic components as detailed in Annex I are included within the scope of this part of BS 1363.

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.

NOTE 1 The titles of the publications referred to in this part of BS 1363 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 BS 1363, 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.

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