IEC 60884-2-6:2025

IEC 60884-2-6 ®
Edition 2.0 2025-02
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets with interlock for
fixed electrical installations

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IEC 60884-2-6 ®
Edition 2.0 2025-02
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets with interlock for
fixed electrical installations
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.120.30 ISBN 978-2-8327-0265-9

– 2 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
1 Scope . 5
2 Normative references . 5
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 General requirements . 6
5 General notes remarks tests . 7
6 Ratings . 7
7 Classification . 7
8 Marking . 8
9 Checking of dimensions . 9
10 Protection against electric shock . 9
11 Provision for earthing . 9
12 Terminals and terminations . 10
13 Construction of fixed socket-outlets . 10
14 Construction of plugs and portable socket-outlets . 11
15 Interlocked socket-outlets . 11
16 Resistance to ageing, to harmful ingress of water protection provided by
enclosures, and resistance to humidity . 13
17 Insulation resistance and electric strength . 14
18 Operation of earthing contacts . 14
19 Temperature rise . 14
20 Breaking capacity . 14
21 Normal operation . 14
22 Force necessary to withdraw the plug . 15
23 Flexible cables and their connection . 15
24 Mechanical strength . 15
25 Resistance to heat . 15
26 Screws, current-carrying parts and connections . 15
27 Creepage distances, clearances and distances through sealing compound . 16
28 Resistance of insulating material to abnormal heat, to fire and to tracking . 16
29 Resistance to rusting . 16
30 Additional tests on pins provided with insulating sleeves . 16
31 EMC requirements . 16
32 Electromagnetic fields (EMF) requirements . 16
Annexes . 17
Annex A (normative) Safety-related routine tests for factory-wired portable
accessories (protection against electric shock and correct polarity) . 17
Annex B (informative) Alternative gripping tests . 17
Annex C (normative) Switches incorporated in portable socket-outlets . 17
Annex I (normative) Additional requirements and tests for plugs and socket-outlets for
high-load (HL) application . 17

Figure 101 – Circuit for the tests of 15.101 . 12

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
PLUGS AND SOCKET-OUTLETS FOR HOUSEHOLD
AND SIMILAR PURPOSES –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets
with interlock for fixed electrical installations

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications, Technical Reports,
Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC Publication(s)”). Their
preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-governmental organizations liaising
with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely with the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
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4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence between
any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
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services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights in
respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, IEC had not received notice of (a) patent(s), which
may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent
the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at https://patents.iec.ch. IEC
shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This redline version of the official IEC Standard allows the user to identify the changes
made to the previous edition IEC 60884-2-6:1997. A vertical bar appears in the margin
wherever a change has been made. Additions are in green text, deletions are in
strikethrough red text.
– 4 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
IEC 60884-2-6 has been prepared by subcommittee 23B: Plugs, socket-outlets and switches,
of IEC technical committee 23: Electrical accessories. It is an International Standard.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1997. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) alignment to IEC 60884-1, fourth edition.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
23B/1547/FDIS 23B/1561/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
This document is to be used in conjunction with IEC 60884-1:2022.
This document supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses in IEC 60884-1:2022, so as
to convert that publication into the IEC standard: Particular requirements for switched socket-
outlets without interlock for fixed installations.
When a particular subclause of IEC 60884-1:2022 is mentioned in this document, that
subclause applies as far as reasonable. Where this document states "addition", "modification"
or "replacement", the relevant text of IEC 60884-1:2022 is to be adapted accordingly.
In this document the following print types are used:
– requirements proper: in roman type;
– test specifications: in italic type;
Explanatory matter: in smaller roman type.
–
Subclauses, notes, figures and tables or figures which are additional to those in
IEC 60884-1:2022 are numbered starting from 101.
A list of all the parts in the IEC 60884 series, under the general title Plugs and socket-outlets
for household and similar purposes, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn, or
• revised.
PLUGS AND SOCKET-OUTLETS FOR HOUSEHOLD
AND SIMILAR PURPOSES –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets
with interlock for fixed electrical installations

1 Scope
Replace IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 1 with the following:
This part of IEC 60884 applies to switched socket-outlets with interlock for AC only, for fixed
electrical installations, with or without earthing contact, with rated voltage above 50 V but not
exceeding 440 V and a rated current not exceeding 32 A, intended for household and similar
purposes, either indoors or outdoors.
Switched socket-outlets with interlock according to this document consist of a combination of
socket-outlets according to IEC 60884-1, interlocked with a switch according to IEC 60669-1
and/or IEC 60669-2-1 supplied as a complete unit accessory.
The rated current is limited to 16 A maximum for fixed accessories provided with screwless
terminals.
This document does not cover requirements for flush mounting boxes.
However, it covers those requirements for surface-type mounting boxes which are necessary
for the tests on socket-outlets.
NOTE 1 General requirements for mounting boxes are covered by IEC 60670.
NOTE 2 Interlocked socket-outlets incorporating devices according to IEC 60898, IEC 61008 and IEC 61009 are
not covered by this document. This document may can be used as a guide for the requirements and tests of these
accessories where relevant.
This document does not apply to
– interlocked socket-outlets for industrial purposes;
– interlocked socket-outlets for EV;
– interlocked socket-outlets for SELV.
Accessories complying with this standard are suitable for use at an ambient temperature not
normally exceeding 25 °C, but occasionally reaching 35 °C.
Plugs and socket-outlets complying with this document are suitable for use at ambient
temperatures not normally exceeding +40 °C, but their average temperature over a period of
24 h does not exceed +35 °C, with a lower limit of the ambient air temperature of −5 °C.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
– 6 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 2 is applicable, except as follows:
Add to the list of normative references:
IEC 60669-1:19932017, Switches for household and similar fixed-electrical installations –
Part 1: General requirements
IEC 60669-2-1:19962021, Switches for household and similar fixed electrical installations –
Part 2-1: Particular requirements – Electronic switches control devices
IEC 60884-1:19942022, Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes – Part 1:
General requirements
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 3 is applicable, except as follows:
Addition:
3.101
interlock
device, either electrical or electronic or mechanical or a combination of these, which prevents
the pins/contacts of a plug from becoming live before the plug is in proper engagement with a
socket-outlet and which either prevents the plug from being withdrawn while its pin/contacts are
live or makes the contacts of the socket-outlet dead before the plug is withdrawn
3.102
switched socket-outlet with interlock
factory assembled unit accessory consisting of a socket-outlet with an integral switching device
controlling the socket-outlet, which is provided with an interlock
3.103
retaining device
mechanical arrangement which holds a plug in position when it is in proper engagement, and
prevents its unintentional withdrawal
4 General requirements
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 4 is applicable.

5 General notes remarks on tests
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 5 is applicable, except as follows:
5.4 Additional samples
Add after the fourth second paragraph:
For the test of Clause 15, it is possible that three additional specimens may be are necessary.
6 Ratings
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 6 is applicable.
7 Classification
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 7 is applicable, except as follows:
7.2 Add the following subclauses:
7.2.101 Switched socket-outlets with interlock are classified:
7.2.101.1 According to the method of actuating the switch:
– rotary;
– tumbler;
– rocker;
– push-button;
– touch;
– proximity;
– optical;
– acoustic;
– other external influences.
7.2.101.2 According to the number of poles of the switch:
– single-pole;
– double-pole;
– three-pole;
– three-pole with neutral.
7.2.101.3 According to the type of interlock:
– mechanical;
– electrical;
– electronic;
– a combination of any of these.
7.2.101.4 According to the retaining device:
– without device;
– with device.
– 8 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
8 Marking
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 8 is applicable, except as follows:
8.1 General
Add the following dashed list items before Note 2:
– symbol of mini-gap construction, if applicable;
– symbol of micro-gap construction, if applicable;
– symbol for semiconductor switching device, if applicable.
8.2 Symbols
Add the following dashed list items before the notes:
– Mini-gap construction . m
– Micro-gap construction . μ
– Semiconductor switching device.(under consideration) ε
– "OFF" position . O
– "ON" position . I
Addition:
8.101 Identification of line terminals
Terminals of switched socket-outlets with interlock intended for the connection of the phase
conductors shall be identified, unless the method of connection is of no importance or is self-
evident or is indicated in a wiring diagram. Such identification may take the form of a letter L or
in the case of more than one terminal, the letters L , L , L , etc., which may be accompanied
1 2 3
by an arrow pointing to the relevant terminal(s).
Alternatively, the surface of such terminals shall be bare brass or copper, other terminals being
covered with a metallic layer of another colour.
These indications shall not be placed on screws or any other easily removable parts.
8.102 Indication of the actual switch position
Switched socket-outlets with interlock shall be so marked that the direction of movement of the
actuating member to its different positions or the actual switch position, is clearly indicated.
These indications shall be clearly visible on switched socket-outlets with interlock fitted with
their cover or cover plate as for normal use. If these indications are placed on the cover or
cover plate, it shall not be possible to fix the cover or cover plate in a position such that the
indications are incorrect.
For indicating the direction of movement of the operating means, the symbols "O" and " I " may
be used.
The short, straight line indicating the "ON" position shall be radial for rotary switches,
perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the dolly for tumbler switches and rocker switches, and
vertical for push-button switches when mounted vertically in its intended position.

9 Checking of dimensions
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 9 is applicable.
10 Protection against electric shock
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 10 is applicable, except as follows:
Addition:
10.101 Requirements for operating parts
Knobs, operating levers, push-buttons, rockers and the like, for operating switches in switched
socket-outlets with interlock shall be of insulating material, unless their accessible metal parts
are separated from the metal parts of the mechanism by double insulation or reinforced
insulation, or in the case of switched socket-outlets with interlock with earthing terminals, they
are reliably connected to earth.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by the tests of Clause 17 and Clause 21.
NOTE – For definition of the terms "double insulation" and "reinforced insulation", see IEC 60536.
10.102 Requirements for accessible metal parts (protrusion from enclosure)
Metal parts of the switch mechanism, such as the spindle or the pivot of the dolly or rocker, that
are not insulated from live parts, shall not protrude from the enclosure.
Compliance is checked by inspection. If necessary, the actuating member may be removed or
broken.
If the actuating member has to be broken, compliance is checked after the test of Clause 28.
10.103 Requirements for accessible metal parts (accessibility)
Metal parts of the switch mechanism, such as the spindle or the pivot of the dolly or rocker,
shall not be accessible when the switched socket-outlet with interlock is mounted as for normal
use.
In addition, these metal parts shall be insulated from accessible metal parts, including metal
frames supporting the base of flush-type switched socket-outlets with interlock, liable to be
mounted in a metal box, and also from screws used for fixing the base to its support.
This additional requirement does not apply if the metal parts of the mechanism are separated
from live parts in such a way that the creepage distances and clearances have at least twice
the values specified in 27.1, or as an alternative for switched socket-outlets with interlock
provided with earthing terminals, if they are reliably connected to earth.
Compliance is checked by inspection. If necessary, measurement and the tests of Clause 17
and Clause 20 may be used.
11 Provision for earthing
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 11 is applicable.

– 10 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
12 Terminals and terminations
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 12 is applicable.
13 Construction of fixed socket-outlets
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 13 is applicable, except as follows:
Addition:
13.101 Switch poles
Switches shall be constructed to match the number of poles of the socket-outlet, except that
the neutral pole is not switched in unswitched neutral socket-outlets.
The earthing contact is not considered as a pole and the earth circuit shall not be switched.
The position of the switch operating member shall be such that it does not prevent, nor shall its
correct operation be prevented by, the proper insertion of the corresponding plug or plugs.
NOTE – This may be checked by reference to the appropriate standard sheets for the system of plugs and socket-
outlets used in the country in question.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by a manual test.
13.102 Attachment of knobs
Knobs of rotary switches shall be securely coupled to the shaft or to the part operating the
mechanism.
Compliance is checked by the following test.
The knob is subjected for 1 min to an axial pull of 100 N.
After this, knobs of switches having only one direction of operation are turned, if possible,
without undue force, 100 times in the reverse direction.
During the test the knob shall not become detached.
13.103 Indication of the position
The actuating member of a switch, when released, shall automatically take up the position
corresponding to that of the moving contacts, except that, for those with a single push-button,
the actuating member may take up a single rest position.
13.104 Rest and intermediate position
Switches shall be so constructed that the moving contacts can come to rest only in the "ON" or
"OFF" position, an intermediate position being, however, permissible if it corresponds to the
intermediate position of the actuating member and if the insulation between the fixed and
moving contacts is then adequate.
When in the intermediate position, the insulation between the fixed and moving contacts is
checked by applying a voltage of substantially sine-wave form, having a frequency of 50 Hz or
60 Hz, for 1 min across the switch gap, the test voltage being 1 250 V for switched socket-
outlets with interlock having a rated voltage up to and including 130 V, or 2 000 V for switched
socket-outlets with interlock having a rated voltage exceeding 130 V.

Compliance with the requirements of 13.103 and 13.104 is checked by inspection, by manual
test and for switches with the intermediate position by the electrical test in the preceding
paragraph.
13.105 Undue arcing
Switches shall be constructed so that undue arcing cannot occur when the switch is operated
slowly.
Compliance is checked by causing the switch, at the end of the test of Clause 21, to break the
circuit a further ten times, the actuating member being moved steadily by hand over a period of
2 s and the moving contacts being stopped, if possible, in an intermediate position, the actuating
member then being released.
During the test, no sustained arcing shall occur.
13.106 Making and breaking
Switched socket-outlets with interlock with switches operating more than one pole shall make
and break all poles virtually simultaneously, except that for multiple switches with switched
neutral, the neutral shall not make after or break before other poles.
Compliance is checked by inspection and by a manual test.
13.107 Action of the mechanism without cover or cover plate
The action of the mechanism, if the covers or cover plates are removable for installation
purposes, shall be independent of the presence of the covers or cover plates.
Compliance is checked by connecting the switch, without cover or cover plate, of the switched
socket-outlet with interlock in series with a lamp and by normally pressing the actuating member
without undue force.
During the test the lamp shall not flicker.
14 Construction of plugs and portable socket-outlets
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 14 is not applicable.
15 Interlocked socket-outlets
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 15 is replaced by the following:
15.101 General
Switched socket-outlets with interlock shall be so constructed that a plug cannot be inserted
into or completely withdrawn from the socket-outlet while the socket contacts are live, and the
socket contacts of the socket-outlet cannot be made live until a plug is almost completely in
engagement.
Compliance is checked by carrying out the tests of 15.102.1 or 15.102.2 as applicable after the
test of Clause 21.
– 12 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
15.102 Switched socket-outlets with interlock without retaining devices
15.102.1 Switched socket-outlets with interlock without retaining devices shall be:
– so constructed that the moving contacts of the switch are mechanically coupled with the
socket-outlet in such a way that, during the withdrawal of the plug, they break before or
substantially at the same time as the pins of the plug are disconnected from the socket
contacts of the socket-outlet;
– so designed that, after engagement with the relevant plugs the interlock operates correctly;
– so designed that the operation of the interlock is not impaired by normal wear of the plug.
Compliance is checked by the test of 15.1.1102.2 and Clause 21.
15.1.1102.2 Switched socket-outlets with interlock are connected as shown in Figure 101.

Figure 101 – Circuit for the tests of 15.101
The test is carried out as follows.
Without the plug inserted an attempt shall be made to close the switching device. The switch
contacts shall not close.
This is checked by a continuity test made between the supply terminals and the contact
assembly of the socket-outlet.
The plug connected as in Figure 101 is inserted and the switching device is then closed. The
lamps A1 shall not light, the lamps A2 shall light.
The plug is then withdrawn slowly in the most unfavourable direction and then the lamps A1
shall light. The test is considered to be fulfilled if these conditions are met.
NOTE 1 A reduction of the brightness of the lamps A2 may can occur during the time that the lamps A1 are
illuminated.
NOTE 2 In case of doubt in determining the illumination time of the lamps, the test may can be repeated using
oscilloscopes.
The above test shall be carried out three times on each of the three specimens.

NOTE 3 For this test, specimens specially prepared by the manufacturer may can be used.
15.215.103 Switched socket-outlets with interlock with retaining devices
15.103.1 Switched socket-outlets with interlock with retaining devices shall be:
– so constructed that the interlock is mechanically linked with the operation of a switching
device so that the plug can neither be withdrawn from the socket-outlet while the contacts
are alive, nor be inserted while the switching device is in the ON position;
– so designed that with any complementary accessory the interlock operates correctly.
Compliance is checked by inspection, by a manual test and by the test of 15.103.2.1.
15.103.2.1 Switched socket-outlets with interlock with a mechanical retaining device locking
the plug into the socket-outlet are subjected to the following test.
An axial pull is applied to an appropriate plug inserted in the switched socket-outlet with
interlock, with the mechanical retaining device in the locked position. The switched socket-
outlet with interlock is fixed to mounting plate A of an apparatus as shown in Figure 13 25 so
that the axis of the socket-contacts are vertical and the entry holes for the pins of the plug face
downwards.
The test plug according to the relevant standard sheets shall have finely ground pins of
hardened steel, having a surface roughness not exceeding 0,8 μm over their active length and
spaced at the nominal distances, with a tolerance of ± 0,05 mm.
The diameter of round pins or the distance between contact surfaces for other types of pin shall
be in accordance with the minimum dimension(s) given in the relevant standard sheets, with a
+0,01
tolerance of mm.
The pins are wiped free from grease before use.
The test plug is inserted into and withdrawn from the socket-outlet ten times. It is then again
inserted, a mass being attached to it by means of a suitable clamp D. The total mass of the
plug, the clamp and the carrier, shall exert a pull force equal to 120 N.
During the test the plug shall not come out of the socket-outlet and the mechanical retaining
device shall remain in the locked position.
After the test, the switched socket-outlet with interlock shall show no damage within the
meaning of this document.
For the purpose of this test, the earthing contact is considered as one pole.
16 Resistance to ageing, to harmful ingress of water protection provided by
enclosures, and resistance to humidity
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 16 is applicable.

– 14 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
17 Insulation resistance and electric strength
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 17 is applicable, except as follows:
17.2 Test for measuring the insulation resistance
17.2.1 Add the following at the end of Subclause 17.2.1:
For items g) and h) of 17.1.12.2, the insulation resistance shall not be less than 2 MΩ.
17.1.12.2 Replace the last second paragraph before the notes by (i.e., the paragraph after the
list) with:
For switches of a switched socket-outlet with interlock, the insulation resistance is measured
consecutively:
f) between all poles connected together and the body, with the switch in the "ON" position;
g) between each pole in turn and all others connected to the body, with the switch in the "ON"
position;
h) between the terminals which are electrically connected together when the switch is in the
"ON" position, the switch being in the "OFF" position.
The term "body" includes accessible metal parts, metal frames supporting the base of flush-
type switched socket-outlets with interlock, operating keys, metal foil in contact with the outer
surface of accessible external parts and operating keys of insulating material, the point of
anchorage of the cord, chain or rod for switches operated by such means, fixing screws of
bases or covers and cover plates, external assembly screws, earthing terminals and any metal
part of the mechanism if required to be insulated from live parts (see 10.102).
18 Operation of earthing contacts
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 18 is applicable.
19 Temperature rise
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 19 is applicable.
20 Breaking capacity
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 20 is applicable, with the following addition:
20.101 Switches incorporated in switched socket-outlets with interlock
Switches incorporated in switched socket-outlets with interlock shall be in accordance with
IEC 60669-1 or IEC 60669-2-1.
21 Normal operation
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 21 is replaced by:
Switched socket-outlets with interlock shall withstand without excessive wear or other harmful
effect, the mechanical, electrical and thermal stresses occurring in normal use.

Compliance is checked by the following test:
a) The switch shall comply with the appropriate clauses of IEC 60669-1 or IEC 60669-2-1.
b) The specimens are checked by carrying out 5 000 load cycles at rated voltage and rated
current with a power factor 0,8 ± 0,05, with the interlocking device in operation.
During the test the specimens are not lubrificated lubricated and shall function correctly.
After the test the specimens shall withstand an electric strength test as specified in
Clause 17, and a temperature rise test as specified in Clause 19, the test current being
reduced to the rated current value.
After these tests the specimens shall not show:
– wear impairing their further use;
– discrepancy between the position of the actuating member and that of the moving
contact, if the position of the actuating member is indicated;
– deterioration of enclosures, insulating linings or barriers to such an extent that the switch
cannot be further operated, or that the requirements of Clause 10 are no longer complied
with;
– loosening of electrical or mechanical connections;
– seepage of sealing compound;
– relative displacement of the moving contacts of the switches.
The humidity treatment according to 16.3 is not repeated before the electric strength test of this
Clause 21.
Then the test of Clause 15 shall be performed to check the interlocking mechanism.
22 Force necessary to withdraw the plug
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 22 is applicable except as follows:
22.1 General
Add, after the third paragraph, the following:
For switched socket-outlets with interlock with a retaining device the test is carried out with the
retaining device unlocked.
23 Flexible cables and their connection
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 23 is not applicable.
24 Mechanical strength
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 24 is applicable.
25 Resistance to heat
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 25 is applicable.
26 Screws, current-carrying parts and connections
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 26 is applicable.

– 16 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 RLV © IEC 2025
27 Creepage distances, clearances and distances through sealing compound
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 27 is applicable with the following addition:
Add the following subclause:
27.101 Additional requirement for switches incorporated in switched socket-outlets with
interlock
For switches incorporated in switched socket-outlets with interlock, the creepage distances,
clearances and distances through sealing compound shall be in accordance with IEC 60669-1
or IEC 60669-2-1.
Compliance is checked by measurement.
28 Resistance of insulating material to abnormal heat, to fire and to tracking
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 28 is applicable.
29 Resistance to rusting
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 29 is applicable.
30 Additional tests on pins provided with insulating sleeves
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 30 is not applicable.
31 EMC requirements
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 31 is applicable.
32 Electromagnetic fields (EMF) requirements
IEC 60884-1:2022, Clause 32 is applicable.

Annexes
The annexes of IEC 60884-1:2022 are applicable except as follows:

Annex A
(normative)
Safety-related routine tests for factory-wired portable accessories
(protection against electric shock and correct polarity)
IEC 60884-1:2022, Annex A is not applicable.

Annex B
(informative)
Alternative gripping tests
IEC 60884-1:2022, Annex B is not applicable.

Annex C
(normative)
Switches incorporated in portable socket-outlets
IEC 60884-1:2022, Annex C is not applicable.

Annex I
(normative)
Additional requirements and tests for plugs and
socket-outlets for high-load (HL) application
IEC 60884-1:2022, Annex I is not applicable.
___________
IEC 60884-2-6 ®
Edition 2.0 2025-02
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets with interlock for
fixed electrical installations

– 2 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 © IEC 2025
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
1 Scope . 5
2 Normative references . 5
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 General requirements . 6
5 General remarks on tests . 7
6 Ratings . 7
7 Classification . 7
8 Marking . 8
9 Checking of dimensions . 9
10 Protection against electric shock . 9
11 Provision for earthing . 9
12 Terminals and terminations . 9
13 Construction of fixed socket-outlets . 10
14 Construction of plugs and portable socket-outlets . 11
15 Interlocked socket-outlets . 11
16 Resistance to ageing, protection provided by enclosures, and resistance to
humidity . 13
17 Insulation resistance and electric strength . 14
18 Operation of earthing contacts . 14
19 Temperature rise . 14
20 Breaking capacity . 14
21 Normal operation . 14
22 Force necessary to withdraw the plug . 15
23 Flexible cables and their connection . 15
24 Mechanical strength .
...

IEC 60884-2-6 ®
Edition 2.0 2025-02
EXTENDED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
This full version of IEC 60884-2-6:2025 includes the content of the references made to
IEC 60884-1:2022
Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets with interlock for
fixed electrical installations
All rights reserved. Unless otherwise specified, no part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any form
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IEC 60884-2-6 ®
Edition 2.0 2025-02
EXTENDED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
This full version of IEC 60884-2-6:2025 includes the content of the references made to
IEC 60884-1:2022
Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets with interlock for
fixed electrical installations
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.120.30 ISBN 978-2-8327-0266-6

– 2 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 6
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 10
4 General requirements . 17
5 General remarks on tests . 17
6 Ratings . 20
7 Classification . 20
8 Marking . 23
9 Checking of dimensions . 28
10 Protection against electric shock . 29
11 Provision for earthing . 36
12 Terminals and terminations . 38
13 Construction of fixed socket-outlets . 58
14 Construction of plugs and portable socket-outlets . 71
15 Interlocked socket-outlets . 71
16 Resistance to ageing, protection provided by enclosures, and resistance to
humidity . 73
17 Insulation resistance and electric strength . 80
18 Operation of earthing contacts . 82
19 Temperature rise . 82
20 Breaking capacity . 90
21 Normal operation . 94
22 Force necessary to withdraw the plug . 95
23 Flexible cables and their connection . 99
24 Mechanical strength . 99
25 Resistance to heat . 117
26 Screws, current-carrying parts and connections . 120
27 Creepage distances, clearances and distances through sealing compound . 122
28 Resistance of insulating material to abnormal heat, to fire and to tracking . 124
29 Resistance to rusting . 129
30 Additional tests on pins provided with insulating sleeves . 129
31 EMC requirements . 129
32 Electromagnetic fields (EMF) requirements . 130
Annex A (normative) Safety-related routine tests for factory-wired portable
accessories (protection against electric shock and correct polarity) . 131
Annex B (informative) Alternative gripping tests . 132
Annex C (normative) Switches incorporated in portable socket-outlets . 133
Annex D (normative) Requirements for plugs and fixed or portable socket-outlets
intended to be used with AWG cables . 134
Annex E (informative) Tests to be applied during the production of crimped
connections in accessories . 147

Annex F (normative) Additional requirements for accessories provided with insulation-
piercing terminals . 149
Annex G (informative) Additional tests and requirements for accessories intended to

be used in ambient temperatures below −5 °C down to and including −45 °C . 159
Annex H (informative) Additional tests and requirements for accessories intended to
be used in ambient temperatures above +40 °C up to and including +70 °C . 164
Annex I (normative) Additional requirements and tests for plugs and socket-outlets for
high-load (HL) application . 167
Bibliography . 168

Figure 1 – Examples of accessories . 10
Figure 2 – Example of thread-forming screw . 13
Figure 3 – Example of thread-cutting screw . 14
Figure 4 – Examples of membranes and grommets . 15
Figure 5 – Test piston dimensions. 27
Figure 6 – Arrangement for compression test . 30
Figure 7 – Gauge for checking non-accessibility of live parts, through shutters . 33
Figure 8 – Gauge for checking non-accessibility of live parts, through shutters, and of
live parts of socket-outlets with increased protection. 34
Figure 9 – Pillar terminals . 41
Figure 10 – Screw head terminals and stud terminals . 42
Figure 11 – Saddle terminals . 43
Figure 12 – Mantle terminals . 44
Figure 13 – Arrangement for checking damage to conductors . 45
Figure 14 – Information for deflection test . 56
Figure 15 – Verification of the requirements of 13.4 . 62
Figure 16 – Device for checking the resistance to lateral strain . 66
Figure 101 – Circuit for the tests of 15.101 . 71
Figure 18 – Types of test wall . 77
Figure 19 – Test set-up in accordance with 16.2.3 . 78
Figure 20 – Clamping unit for the temperature rise test of Clause 19 . 85
Figure 21 – Example of a trend line calculation . 90
Figure 22 – Example of apparatus for breaking capacity and normal operation test . 92
Figure 23 – Circuit diagrams for breaking capacity and normal operation tests . 93
Figure 25 – Apparatus for verification of maximum withdrawal force . 96
Figure 26 – Gauge for the verification of minimum withdrawal force . 97
Figure 29 – Sketches showing the application of the blows according to Table 23. 102
Figure 30 – Apparatus for impact test at low temperature of 24.5 . 105
Figure 31 – Apparatus for abrasion test on insulating sleeves of plug pins . 106
Figure 32 – Arrangement for mechanical strength test on multiple portable socket-
outlets . 108
Figure 33 – Example of test arrangement to verify the retention of pins in the body of
the plug . 109
Figure 34 – Arrangement for test on covers or cover-plates . 112
Figure 35 – Gauge (thickness about 2 mm) for the verification of the outline of covers

or cover-plates . 113

– 4 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
Figure 36 – Examples of application of the gauge of Figure 35 on covers fixed without
screws on a mounting surface or supporting surface . 114
Figure 37 – Examples of application of the gauge of Figure 35 in accordance with the

requirements of 24.16 . 115
Figure 38 – Gauge for verification of grooves, holes and reverse tapers . 116
Figure 39 – Sketch showing the direction of application of the gauge of Figure 38 . 116
Figure 40 – Ball pressure test apparatus . 118
Figure 41 – Apparatus for compression test for the verification of resistance to
heat specification of 25.5 . 119
Figure 42 – Diagrammatic representation of 28.1.2 . 126
Figure 43 – Apparatus for testing resistance to abnormal heat of insulating sleeves of
plug pins . 128
Figure F.1 – Example of IPTs . 157
Figure F.2 – Example of test-points . 157
Figure F.3 – Temperature cycle for voltage drop test 12.4.11 . 158
Figure H.1 – Schematic drawing of a de-rating curve with an example of a de-rated
current I at the operating ambient temperature t . 165
d d
Table 1 – Survey of specimens needed for tests . 18
Table 2 – Preferred combinations of types and ratings . 20
Table 3 – Gauge tolerances . 28
Table 4 – Relationship between rated current and connectable nominal cross-sectional
areas of copper conductors . 38
Table 5 – Values for pull test for screw-type terminals . 46
Table 6 – Composition of conductors . 47
Table 7 – Tightening torques for the verification of the mechanical strength of screw-
type terminals . 49
Table 8 – Relationship between rated current and connectable cross-sectional areas of
copper conductors for screwless-type terminals . 50
Table 9 – Value for pull test for screwless-type-type terminals . 52
Table 10 – Values for flexing under mechanical load test for copper conductors . 53
Table 11 – Test current for the verification of electrical and thermal stresses in normal
use for screwless-type terminals . 53
Table 12 – Nominal cross-sectional areas of rigid copper conductors for deflection test
of screwless-type terminals . 56
Table 13 – Deflection test forces for screwless-type terminals . 57
Table 14 – Forces to be applied to covers, cover-plates or actuating members whose

fixing is not dependent on screws . 64
Table 15 – External cable dimension limits for surface-type socket-outlets . 68
Table 16 – Nominal cross-sectional areas of copper conductors for the temperature-
rise test . 82
Table 17 – Test current for cycling tests on accessories with crimped connection . 89
Table 19 – Maximum and minimum withdrawal force for plugs and socket-outlets . 98
Table 23 – Height of fall for impact tests . 101
Table 24 – Torque test values for cable glands . 106
Table 25 – Resistance to heat of different types or parts of accessories . 117

Table 26 – Creepage distances, clearances and distances through insulating sealing
compound . 123
Table F.1 – Relationship between rated currents and connectable cross-sectional

areas of copper conductors for IPTs . 152
Table F.2 – Test current for the verification of electrical and thermal stresses in normal
use of IPTs . 156
Table G.1 – Energy for impact tests . 162

– 6 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
PLUGS AND SOCKET-OUTLETS FOR HOUSEHOLD
AND SIMILAR PURPOSES –
Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets
with interlock for fixed electrical installations

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications, Technical Reports,
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preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-governmental organizations liaising
with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely with the International Organization for
Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence between
any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
patent(s). IEC takes no position concerning the evidence, validity or applicability of any claimed patent rights in
respect thereof. As of the date of publication of this document, IEC had not received notice of (a) patent(s), which
may be required to implement this document. However, implementers are cautioned that this may not represent
the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at https://patents.iec.ch. IEC
shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This extended version (EXV) of the official IEC Standard provides the user with the full
content of the Standard.
to IEC 60884-1:2022.
The specific content of IEC 60884-2-6:2025 is displayed on a blue background.

IEC 60884-2-6 has been prepared by subcommittee 23B: Plugs, socket-outlets and switches,
of IEC technical committee 23: Electrical accessories. It is an International Standard.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 1997. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) alignment to IEC 60884-1, fourth edition.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
23B/1547/FDIS 23B/1561/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
This document is to be used in conjunction with IEC 60884-1:2022.
This document supplements or modifies the corresponding clauses in IEC 60884-1:2022, so as
to convert that publication into the IEC standard: Particular requirements for switched socket-
outlets without interlock for fixed installations.
When a particular subclause of IEC 60884-1:2022 is mentioned in this document, that
subclause applies as far as reasonable. Where this document states "addition", "modification"
or "replacement", the relevant text of IEC 60884-1:2022 is to be adapted accordingly.
In this document the following print types are used:
– requirements proper: in roman type;
– test specifications: in italic type;
– Explanatory matter: in smaller roman type.
Subclauses, notes, figures and tables or figures which are additional to those in
IEC 60884-1:2022 are numbered starting from 101.
A list of all the parts in the IEC 60884 series, under the general title Plugs and socket-outlets
for household and similar purposes, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn, or
• revised.
– 8 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
PLUGS AND SOCKET-OUTLETS FOR
HOUSEHOLD AND SIMILAR PURPOSES –

Part 2-6: Particular requirements for switched socket-outlets
with interlock for fixed electrical installations

1 Scope
This part of IEC 60884 applies to switched socket-outlets with interlock for AC only, for fixed
electrical installations, with or without earthing contact, with rated voltage above 50 V but not
exceeding 440 V and a rated current not exceeding 32 A, intended for household and similar
purposes, either indoors or outdoors.
Switched socket-outlets with interlock according to this document consist of a combination of
socket-outlets according to IEC 60884-1, interlocked with a switch according to IEC 60669-1
and/or IEC 60669-2-1 supplied as a complete accessory.
The rated current is limited to 16 A maximum for fixed accessories provided with screwless
terminals.
This document does not cover requirements for flush mounting boxes.
However, it covers those requirements for surface-type mounting boxes which are necessary
for the tests on socket-outlets.
NOTE 1 General requirements for mounting boxes are covered by IEC 60670.
NOTE 2 Interlocked socket-outlets incorporating devices according to IEC 60898, IEC 61008 and IEC 61009 are
not covered by this document. This document can be used as a guide for the requirements and tests of these
accessories where relevant.
This document does not apply to
– interlocked socket-outlets for industrial purposes;
– interlocked socket-outlets for EV;
– interlocked socket-outlets for SELV.
Plugs and socket-outlets complying with this document are suitable for use at ambient
temperatures not normally exceeding +40 °C, but their average temperature over a period of
24 h does not exceed +35 °C, with a lower limit of the ambient air temperature of −5 °C.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60068-2-30, Environmental testing – Part 2-30: Tests – Test Db: Damp heat, cyclic
(12 + 12 h cycle)
IEC 60068-2-31, Environmental testing – Part 2-31: Tests – Test Ec: Rough handling shocks,
primarily for equipment-type specimens
IEC 60068-2-75, Environmental testing – Part 2-75: Tests – Test Eh: Hammer tests

IEC 60112, Method for the determination of the proof and the comparative tracking indices of
solid insulating materials
IEC 60227 (all parts), Polyvinyl chloride insulated cables of rated voltages up to and including
450/750 V
IEC 60245 (all parts), Rubber insulated cables – Rated voltages up to and including 450/750 V
IEC 60417, Graphical symbols for use on equipment (available at http://www.graphical-
symbols.info/equipment)
IEC 60423:2007, Conduit systems for cable management – Outside diameters of conduits for
electrical installations and threads for conduits and fittings
IEC 60529:1989, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60529:1989/AMD1:1999
IEC 60529:1989/AMD2:2013
IEC 60669 (all parts), Switches for household and similar fixed-electrical installations
IEC 60669-1:2017, Switches for household and similar fixed-electrical installations – Part 1:
General requirements
IEC 60669-2-1:2021, Switches for household and similar fixed electrical installations – Part 2-1:
Particular requirements – Electronic control devices
IEC 60695-2-10:2021, Fire hazard testing – Part 2-10: Glowing/hot-wire based test methods –
Glow-wire apparatus and common test procedure
IEC 60695-2-11:2021, Fire hazard testing – Part 2-11: Glowing/hot-wire based test methods –
Glow-wire flammability test method for end products (GWEPT)
IEC 60884-1:2022, Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes – Part 1:
General requirements
IEC 60884-2-1, Plugs and socket-outlets for household and similar purposes – Part 2-1:
Particular requirements for fused plugs
IEC 61032:1997, Protection of persons and equipment by enclosures – Probes for verification
IEC 61058 (all parts), Switches for appliances
IEC 61545, Connecting devices – Devices for the connection of aluminium conductors in
clamping units of any material and copper conductors in aluminium bodied clamping units
ISO/IEC Guide 51, Safety aspects – Guidelines for their inclusion in standards
ISO 1456:2009, Metallic and other inorganic coatings – Electrodeposited coatings of nickel,
nickel plus chromium, copper plus nickel and of copper plus nickel plus chromium
ISO 2081:2018, Metallic and other inorganic coatings – Electroplated coatings of zinc with
supplementary treatments on iron or steel
ISO 2093:1986, Electroplated coatings of tin – Specification and test methods

– 10 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
NOTE 1 Where the terms "voltage" and "current" are used, they imply RMS values, unless otherwise specified.
NOTE 2 Throughout this document the word "earthing" is used for "protective earthing" unless otherwise stated.
NOTE 3 The term "accessory" is used as a general term covering plugs and socket-outlets; the term "portable
accessory" covers plugs and portable socket-outlets. Examples of the use of accessories are shown in Figure 1 a).
NOTE 4 Throughout this document the term "socket-outlet" covers both fixed and portable socket-outlets, except
where the reference is specific to one type or the other.

a) Diagram showing various accessories and their use
NOTE Appliance, appliance inlet and appliance coupler are used in this figure only for illustration purposes and
they are not covered by this document.

b) Example of a multiple socket-outlet
Figure 1 – Examples of accessories
3.1
plug
accessory having pins designed to engage with the contacts of a socket-outlet

Note 1 to entry: A plug allows the manual connection and disconnection of an electrical load to an electrical supply
by an ordinary person.
Note 2 to entry: The plug can be connected to a cable or integrated into an accessory.
Note 3 to entry: In adaptors, the plug can be integral or detachable, see IEC 60884-2-5.
Note 4 to entry: For special purposes such as lighting chains (see also IEC 60598-2-20), two or three single-core
cables can be connected within the plug.
3.2
socket-outlet
accessory having socket-contacts designed to engage with the pins of a plug
Note 1 to entry: The socket-outlet can be connected to a cable or integrated into an accessory.
Note 2 to entry: In adaptors, the socket-outlet can be integral or detachable, see IEC 60884-2-5.
3.3
fixed socket-outlet
socket-outlet intended to be installed at a fixed location and be connected to fixed wiring
3.4
portable socket-outlet
socket-outlet intended to be connected to or integral with one flexible cable and which can
easily be moved from one place to another while connected to the supply
3.5
multiple socket-outlets
combination of two or more socket-outlets
Note 1 to entry: An example is shown in Figure 1 b).
3.6
rewirable plug
plug so constructed that the flexible cable can be replaced
3.7
non-rewirable plug
assembly of the plug and the flexible cable so constructed that the flexible cable cannot be
replaced
3.8
rewirable portable socket-outlet
socket-outlet so constructed that the flexible cable can be replaced
3.9
non-rewirable portable socket-outlet
assembly of the socket-outlet and the flexible cable so constructed that the flexible cable cannot
be replaced
3.10
moulded-on accessory
non-rewirable portable accessory the manufacture of which is completed by insulating material
moulded around pre-assembled component parts and the terminations for the flexible cable
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-442:1998, 442-01-14, modified – "portable" has been added to the
definition and "or cord" has been omitted.]

– 12 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
3.11
mounting box
box intended for mounting in or on a wall, floor or ceiling, etc., for flush or surface application,
intended for use with fixed socket-outlet(s)
3.12
cord set
assembly consisting of a flexible cable or cord fitted with a non-rewirable plug and a non-
rewirable connector, intended for the connection of an electrical appliance to the electrical
supply
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-442:1998, 442-07-04, and IEC 60050-442:2008, 461-06-16]
3.13
cord extension set
assembly consisting of one flexible cable fitted with one plug and one single or multiple portable
socket-outlets
3.14
terminal
insulated or non-insulated connecting device intended for reusable electrical connection of the
external conductors
3.15
termination
insulated or non-insulated connecting device intended for non-reusable electrical connection of
the external conductors
3.16
clamping unit
part(s) of the terminal necessary for the mechanical clamping and the electrical connection of
the conductor(s), including the parts which are necessary to ensure correct contact pressure
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-442:1998, 442-06-12]
3.17
screw-type terminal
terminal for the connection and subsequent disconnection of one conductor or the
interconnection and subsequent disconnection of two or more conductors, the connection being
made, directly or indirectly, by means of screws or nuts of any kind
Note 1 to entry: Term entries 3.18 to 3.23 are examples of screw-type terminals.
3.18
pillar terminal
screw-type terminal in which the conductor is inserted into a hole or cavity, where it is clamped
under the end of the screw or screws
Note 1 to entry: The clamping pressure may be applied directly by the end of the screw or through an intermediate
clamping member to which pressure is applied by the end of the screw.
Note 2 to entry: Examples of pillar terminals are shown in Figure 9.
3.19
stirrup terminal
pillar terminal where the clamping pressure may be applied indirectly by an intermediate
clamping member when the screw is tightened
Note 1 to entry: Examples of stirrup terminals are shown in Figure 9.

3.20
screw head terminal
screw-type terminal in which the conductor is clamped under the head of the screw
Note 1 to entry: The clamping pressure may be applied directly to the head of a screw or through an intermediate
part, such as a washer, clamping plate or anti-spread device.
Note 2 to entry: Examples of screw head terminals are shown in Figure 10.
3.21
stud terminal
screw-type terminal in which the conductor is clamped under a nut
Note 1 to entry: The clamping pressure may be applied directly by a suitably shaped nut or through an intermediate
part, such as a washer, clamping plate or anti-spread device.
Note 2 to entry: Examples of stud terminals are shown in Figure 10.
3.22
saddle terminal
screw-type terminal in which the conductor is clamped under a saddle by means of two or more
screws or nuts
Note 1 to entry: Examples of saddle terminals are shown in Figure 11.
3.23
mantle terminal
screw-type terminal in which the conductor is clamped against the base of a slot in a threaded
stud by means of a nut
Note 1 to entry: The conductor is clamped against the base of the slot by a suitably shaped washer under the nut,
by a central peg if the nut is a cap nut, or by equally effective means for transmitting the pressure from the nut to the
conductor within the slot.
Note 2 to entry: Examples of mantle terminals are shown in Figure 12.
3.24
screwless-type terminal
connecting device for the connection and subsequent disconnection of a rigid (solid or stranded)
or flexible conductor or the interconnection of two or more conductors, capable of being
dismantled, the connection being made, directly or indirectly, by means of springs, parts of
angled, eccentric or conical form, etc., without special preparation of the conductor concerned,
other than removal of insulation
3.25
thread-forming screw
screw having an uninterrupted thread, which by screwing in, forms a thread by displacing
material
Note 1 to entry: An example of a thread-forming screw is shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2 – Example of thread-forming screw
3.26
thread-cutting screw
screw having an interrupted thread, which by screwing in, forms a thread by removing material

– 14 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
Note 1 to entry: An example of a thread-cutting screw is shown in Figure 3.

Figure 3 – Example of thread-cutting screw
3.27
rated voltage
voltage assigned by the manufacturer for a specified operating condition of an accessory
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-442:1998, 442-01-03, modified – The domain "(for accessories)" has
been omitted.]
3.28
rated current
current assigned by the manufacturer for specified operating condition of an accessory
Note 1 to entry: Examples of the operating conditions are ambient condition, characteristics of the power supply,
duty cycle or duty type.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-442:1998, 442-01-02, modified – The domain "(for accessories)" has
been omitted and the note to entry added.]
3.29
shutter
movable part incorporated into a socket-outlet arranged to shield at least the live
socket-contacts automatically when the plug is withdrawn
3.30
type test
test of one or more devices made to a certain design to show that the design meets certain
specifications
3.31
routine test
test to which each individual device is subjected during and/or after manufacture to ascertain
whether it complies with certain criteria
3.32
base
part of the socket-outlet supporting the socket-contacts
3.33
live part
conductor or conductive part intended to be energized in normal use, including a neutral
conductor, but by convention not a PEN conductor
Note 1 to entry: Live parts according to this document are always considered as hazardous with the exception of
SELV circuits.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-826:2004, 826-12-08, modified – "operation" has been replaced with
"use"; "or PEM conductor or PEL conductor" and the note to entry omitted.]

3.34
cable anchorage
part of an accessory which has the ability to limit the displacement of a fitted flexible cable
against pull, push and turning forces
3.35
main part
assembly consisting of the base and other parts
Note 1 to entry: This assembly is not intended to be dismantled at any time after manufacture.
3.36
grommet
component used to support and protect the cable or conduit at the point of entry
Note 1 to entry: A grommet may also prevent the ingress of moisture or contaminants.
Note 2 to entry: Examples of membranes and grommets are shown in Figure 4.

Key
1 Box
2 Entry membrane
3 Envelope
4 Protective membrane
5 Grommet
6 Switch
Figure 4 – Examples of membranes and grommets
3.37
entry membrane
component or integral part of the accessory used to protect the cable which may be used to
support the cable or conduit at the point of entry
Note 1 to entry: An entry membrane may also prevent the ingress of moisture or contaminants and may be part of
a grommet.
Note 2 to entry: Examples of membranes and grommets are shown in Figure 4.

– 16 – IEC 60884-2-6:2025 EXV © IEC 2025
3.38
protective membrane
component or integral part of the accessory that is not intended to be penetrated in normal use
and is intended to provide protection against ingress of water or solid objects and/or to allow
the operation of an accessory
Note 1 to entry: Examples of membranes and grommets are shown in Figure 4.
3.39
normal load
load typically associated with household appliances
Note 1 to entry: Examples of normal loads:
– washing machines,
– refrigerators,
– clothes irons,
– vacuum cleaners,
– multimedia equipment.
3.40
high load
HL
load that applies long and repetitive cycles up to the rated current to the accessories exceeding
normal load conditions
Note 1 to entry: Examples of applications having HLs are electric vehicle chargers and large terrace heaters.
3.41
crimped connection
permanent connection made by the application of pressure inducing the deformation or
reshaping of the barrel around the conductor of a cable
Note 1 to entry: In some cases the deformation or reshaping of the barrel may affect the form of the conductor.
Note 2 to entry: Examples of crimped connections are shown in IEC 60352-2.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-461:2008, 461-19-01, modified – Note 2 to entry has been added.]
3.42
pilot light
device incorporating a light source either integral or designed to be installed with the accessory
and intended to give for example an indication of the accessory state or to indicate the
accessory location
3.43
protective earthing
protective grounding, (US)
earthing for purposes of electrical safety
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-195:2021, 195-01-11]
3.44
functional earthing
earthing for purposes other than electrical safety
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-195:2021, 195-01-13, modified – The term "functional grounding" has
been omitted.]
...