Trumpy, pleased to meet you. I will go over the past topics to become better aquainted with everyone.
Prior to grounded outlets becomming common in US homes, most tube radios had the L wire to the switch and the N to a metal chassis.
If the plug was not polarized and especially if a knob was broken, exposing a metal piece, anyone could get a nasty bite. It happened to me trying out a vintage radio in a thrift store.
Now with better design, such as recessed screws and plastic enclosures, it seems it is not the problem it once was.
I have a collection of several outlets, British, Schuko, AU/NZ, and Japanese. IMO if they are properly constructed, installed, and used, getting shocked should be a hard trick
I'm not certain anyone's scheme should be universal, each country came a long way in getting their own regions on the same page
regarding standard voltage, frequency plug configurations and safety. It's far easier fitting imported equipment with the proper plug than to ask any nation to rip-up and rewire everything.
Gene--
[This message has been edited by GeneSF (edited 09-26-2003).]
[This message has been edited by GeneSF (edited 09-26-2003).]