ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade Non-US Electrical Systems & Trades does CENELEC need to change plug and light fitting standards completely?

Paul:

My friend Paul (Stenning) from the UK has told me he hates those snap-on adapters.

He says they're not as secure as a proper plug, not to mention the plastic "ground" pins break off easily.

A real plug is better than such a kluge, IMHO.

Sven,

I would agree but I think it is a case of risk reduction. Many Joe Publics out there cannot and should not wire a plug. All in all, it's safer to have them snap it into an adaptor!

That Schuko adaptor is quite a clever little beast. I suppose these are popular because, from what Paul says, equipment for sale must be fitted with a 13A UK plug or failing which, a Euro/Schuko plug.

have to agree with Sven. Some of those Europlug-to-BS1363 adapters I've seen have fairly flimsy looking contacts in them, and once installed there's little movement to keep the contacts clean and free from oxidation.

Luckily, they're only used for light loads, but I still don't really like the approach.