Safe Isolation of a 16/32a socket

[dave992]

Hi, after some discussion with electricians, does removing a 16A or 32A socket constitute safe isolation? I understand that removing the socket completes an isolation, but for me, additional measures should be included, either placing a lock around the plug to prevent it from being placed back into the socket or securing the socket with a lock. The socket outlets are integrated within a test panel.

 

[littlespark]

So you’re talking about isolation of the equipment on the plug, not the socket itself?

If it’s within a panel, then only trained persons should be working on it, so I don’t think any additional procedures need to be used. Just unplugging it under the control of the persons doing the maintenance or repair of that equipment.

Some sockets do come with a rotary isolator before it, which can be locked off, or use an MCB toggle lock.

 

[MDJ]

Hi, after some discussion with electricians, does removing a 16A or 32A socket constitute safe isolation? I understand that removing the socket completes an isolation, but for me, additional measures should be included, either placing a lock around the plug to prevent it from being placed back into the socket or securing the socket with a lock. The socket outlets are integrated within a test panel.

Hi Dave, I am a little confused, what do you mean removing a socket and does it constitute safe isolation? are you talking about a commando plug ? or a socket? sorry for sounding a bit daft but I just feel confused by your post and would be sure if clarified I and others on here could help

 

[littlespark]

@MDJ
Will you please change your profile picture. That one freaks me out every time it pops up.

 

[Spoon]

@MDJ
Will you please change your profile picture. The freaks me out every time it pops up.

Deep beep Richie...

 

[littlespark]

It was Georgie….

Everything floats down here…..

 

[Rockingit]

I’m assuming the question is better written as removing the downstream plug from a 16/32 Commando (ceeform) socket. If so, then ask yourself why wouldn’t it?!

Unplug your kettle in the kitchen and then try to use it - I’d pretty much wager that you’ll discover that’s the very pinnacle of isolation.

 

[Flanders]

if the scenario is that you have a long lead with a 16 amp plug on it supplying say a porta cabin and just by unplugging it you have provide safe isolation so you can work on the other end, 50 meters away I would say this is not safe isolation as any tom dick or harry could plug it back in, if the socket supplys an appliance and you have control of the plug then yes unplugging it would be safe isolation. Just to add most switched interlock sockets have the option to fit a lock in the switch in the off position.

 

[Lister1987]

If it's a plug on an appliance then yes as you've removed its sole source of power (assuming no battery/capacitor backups.

If you mean removing a ceeform socket for a ring/Radial then simply removing the socket won't do. You need to do something with the (now) loose conductors (Disconnection of branch and termination into a suitable enclosure (wagos and a wago box. If the whole Radial is to be removed (assuming it's a multi socket arrangement, then the same still applies; disconnection is only half the job.

You can get lockout devices for ceeform plugs and sockets (assuming disconnection is for maintainance)