Implementation of a Single Standard for Plugs and Socket Outlets

The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka ended its public Consultation on Implementation of a Single Standard for Plugs and Socket Outlets in Sri Lanka for Non-industrial Applications.

The Commission had invited public comments on following specific areas (i) to (vii) addressed by this consultation paper:

(i) Plugs: The Commission proposes to prohibit the import or manufacture of appliances with plugs other than the type G plug, from 1st May 2016.

(ii) Sockets: The Commission proposes to allow wall sockets of any type already fixed to remain in place until the end of their useful life.

(iii) Wiring: The Commission proposes that the transition to the type G standard plug and socket should not require any premises to be re-wired purely for the purpose of accommodating the new standard, and that the existing wiring may remain until the end of its useful life.

(iv) Transition arrangements: The Commission proposes that customers replacing an existing socket with the standard type G socket would be able to purchase a type G socket with a special embossed marking, describing its restrictions in use and protection requirements. This specially marked socket would be available for purchase until the end of 20 years from 1st May 2017.

(v) Instructions to users: To ensure sockets are wired with the correct size of wire and protected with the appropriate fuse or circuit breaker, the Commission proposes that all type G sockets to be sold from 1st May 2017 should carry an instruction sheet to that effect or instructions printed on the box.

(vi) Adaptors: The Commission proposes to prohibit the import of adaptors (widely known as “multi-sockets”) that compromise safety, from 1st May 2016, and their sale from 1st May 2017.

(vii) Extension cords: The Commission observes that unsafe extension cords and multiple sockets with non-shuttered poor contacts are in widespread use. The Commission proposes to prohibit the import of such extension cords from 1st May 2016, and their sale from 1st May 2017. A new standard for extension cords will be announced for this purpose.

(viii) Two pin plugs: In terms of accepted international standards, equipment with two pin plugs require double insulation inside the appliance and connecting wires. However, two pin plugs would not fit into the proposed type G standard.

The Commission proposed that from 1st May 2016, equipment imported into the country or manufactured in the country with approved double insulation, should carry a third pin, as provided for in the standards, so that such equipment can be conveniently fixed to a type G socket.

Written comments and proposals were opened from 6th October 2015- 26th October 2015. Oral Comment Submission of the Public Consultation was held on 29th October 2015.