Get plugged in to the changes to the BS 1363 standard series

Since the 1940s, the BS 1363 standard series has provided essential requirements on the safety, construction, dimensional accuracy and more for the UK national electrical power plugs and socket outlet system. Each of the five documents that make up this series has undergone a revision to ensure that their requirements are fully aligned with the new ‘ring main’ electrical distribution system.

The BS 1363 standard series ensures that the millions of plugs, sockets and adaptors manufactured by different organizations and used throughout the UK and overseas, fit together and function safely - even after many insertions.

The series comprises of the following five standard documents:

• BS 1363-1:2023 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units. Specification for rewirable and non-rewirable 13 A fused plugs

• BS 1363-2:2023 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units. Specification for 13 A switched and unswitched socket-outlets

• BS 1363-3:2023 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units. Specification for adaptors

• BS 1363-4:2023 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units. Specification for 13 A fused connection units switched and unswitched

• BS 1363-5:2023 13 A plugs, socket-outlets, adaptors and connection units. Specification for fused conversion plugs

Each part of the BS 1363 series has been fully revised introducing significant changes. These changes reflect the increasing range of accessories containing electronic components and assemblies, such as USB chargers, and the additional requirements for these items. In addition, there are revised requirements for switches and construction in response to changing manufacturing methods and materials.

As a result, it is now advised that all plug and adapter manufacturers and existing users of the standards ensure they are working to these latest versions of the five specifications.

Learn more about the key standards used within the electrical sector by visiting our Electrical & Electronic Topic Page.

What changes have been made to the BS 1363 specifications?

For existing users of the BS 1363 standard series, we have compiled ad handy guide of the exact changes that have been made within the documents.

The changes made to all parts of the standard series (BS 1363 parts 1-5) include:

• Operating frequencies from 50Hz to 60Hz now in scope

• Current carrying parts made of brass shall have a minimum content of 58% copper

• Insulation and electric strength test now include provision for both indicators and incorporated electronic components to be disconnected

• Modification to requirements for actuating members of switches to include single push-button switches where the actuating member takes up a single rest position.

• New requirements for switch actuating force test for double-pole switches (where fitted)

Other changes made specifically in BS 1363-1:2023 include:

• New non-rewireable plug requirement for creepage and clearance between fuse and clips and engagement face with fuse carrier or cover removed (a change that has also been made to BS 1363-5)

• Overload test for plugs now requires rewireable plugs to be fitted with 13A fuse-links and non-rewireable plugs fitted with highest rated fuse-links specified in Table 2 for the cable fitted.

• New Annex for recommendations for products that incorporate BS 1363-1 plug pins

Other changes made specifically in BS 1363-2:2023 include:

• Socket-outlets incorporating Circuit Breakers for Equipment (CBE) are now included within the scope with requirements and tests

• New definition, requirements, and tests for individually protected socket-outlet (IPS)

• The socket-outlet switch shall not be used to switch incorporated electronic components other than an indicator lamp

• Modification of mounting box clearance requirements for flush mounted socket-outlets

• Re-useable fixings, tamperproof and security screws for non-rewireable portable socket-outlets shall not be used

• Switches conforming to BS EN IEC 61058:2018 or BS EN 60669-1:2018 incorporated in socket-outlets do not need to be tested for normal operation.

• Modification of Annex requirements for incorporated electronic components. Specifically, USB circuits intended for charging portable devices with the addition of abnormal condition and energy efficiency requirements.

• New Annex for recommendations for products that incorporate BS 1363-2 socket-outlets

Other changes made specifically in BS 1363-3:2023 include:

• Change to the requirements governing current rating of adaptors

What are the benefits of the BS 1363 standard series?

The BS 1363 standard series is primarily for use by manufacturers of electrical accessories, cord sets, electrical equipment and by test organizations. The standards can also be used by manufacturers of other ‘plug-in’ items such as power supplies, battery chargers, and other small items of electronic equipment - to evaluate the connecting pins, dimensions, and compatibility with sockets.

The use of these standards by manufacturers in the electrical sector is vitally important for several reasons:

• Safety – use of the BS 1363 standard series ensures that plugs and socket outlets are designed and manufactured to meet strict safety standards, reducing the risk of electrical fires and shocks

• Compatibility - BS 1363 series plugs and socket outlets are designed to be compatible with one another, making it easier for consumers to use a wide range of electrical devices and appliances

• Interoperability - the standardization of plug and socket design using the BS 1363 standard series also means that devices from different manufacturers can work together, ensuring that people can use appliances from a variety of brands in their homes

• International recognition – the BS 1363 standard series is recognized internationally as a benchmark for electrical safety, making it easier for UK-made electrical products to be sold and used overseas

• Consumer protection -adherence to the BS 1363 standard series provides consumers with confidence that the electrical products they purchase are safe and of high quality, protecting them from using faulty or dangerous products

Adherence to these standards helps to promote a safer and more efficient electrical system, benefitting both consumers and industry alike.

Ensure your plugs, socket-outlets and electrical equipment meet the latest specifications set out in the five documents of this important series. Add the BS 1363 standards to your collection today.