Three Pin Plugs

[chokkie]

We recently stayed at a hotel and discovered that one of the large bedside lights wasn't working. We noticed that the plug to this large table lamp was a small plug with 3 smaller round pins. Interestingly the lamp had been successfully PAT tested earlier this year - I thought that these plugs were no longer legal in this country - is that right?

[Canary42]

I don't know much about it, but could it have been a low-voltage supply.

[Gromit]

Perfectly legal.

// BS 546 plugs and sockets are still permitted in the UK, provided the socket has shutters. In the United Kingdom and in Ireland this system is usually referred to by its pin shape and is simply known as “round pin plugs” or “round pin sockets.” It is often associated with obsolete wiring installations or where it is found in modern wiring, it is confined to special use cases, particularly for switch controlled lamps and stage lighting.

[AZardoz]

https://www.plugsocketmuseum.nl/OldBritish1.html

[chokkie]

Thanks so much everyone - I had always believed that those small round round 3 pin plugs were now illegal in British homes, but obviously I am wrong. This plug had been wired up to a bedside lamp with a switch. Thanks to you all for your help. Cheers, Chox.

[The Builder]

https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=round+pin+socket&;adgrpid=53914689300&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzqSWBhDPARIsAK38LY-KxgUG7kBe4rkQhjMcVCI-F7s4GW99lRGc6GhPwCTa4kIph0IRpEkaAuxQEALw_wcB&hvadid=259032287187&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=1006707&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=18018590425853608522&hvtargid=kwd-313166224259&hydadcr=28151_1752779&tag=googhydr-21&ref=pd_sl_4bu1zxjyq0_e

Usually used in the "American" way, Chokkie.
You come in the door, throw the lightswitch, and all the table lamps light up instead of a centre light.

[Canary42]

Thanks folks for authenticating the opening of my remark at 06:27 LOL