Locking plug type - legal to use or not?

[engin]

Hi,

Our client is asking us to use a similar style prong design that latches inside the wall outlet with a hook, as in here:


This is intended to be used for a small consumer electronics product. Are there any regulations against the use of these types of plugs? If the plug latches to the outlet very strong and if somebody walks into the cable, it may pull the whole outlet out accidentally. Do you see any other safety issues related to using a product like this?

Thanks in advance,
Engin

 

[roger]

I would check to see if they are listed and if they are in compliance with OSHA and other safety rules. Locking (Twist Lock type) receptacles are used extensively.

Roger

 

[kwired]

I don't know what was in that link that got it removed, but the OP's question doesn't make much sense without knowing what he is asking about.

 

[roger]

I don't know what was in that link that got it removed, but the OP's question doesn't make much sense without knowing what he is asking about.

Just take a wild guess considering this

If the plug latches to the outlet very strong and if somebody walks into the cable, it may pull the whole outlet out accidentally. Do you see any other safety issues related to using a product like this?

Roger

 

[kwired]

Just take a wild guess considering this



Roger

There are listed locking receptacles out there that could fit into that scenario. I once wired some equipment in a poultry barn with locking caps/connectors, when they snagged it with skid loader when cleaning out the litter, instead of coming unplugged it ripped down things the pendant was attached to.

If anything it must have been a modified straight blade application and not a listed locking receptacle.

 

[engin]

Thanks to everybody who provided their input on the topic. Here is another attempt at the link

I am not able to attach an image, but I will describe it to my best. The prongs are straight and they don't involve any twisting. One of the prongs latches inside the plug using a hook. The user would then need to push a button to release the plug from the receptacle. I can't see any certifications on the website. I am asking this to understand if we can incorporate a similar mechanism into our design without having to deal with potential safety hazards or legal issues.

 

[zbang]

Sounds a bit like the Union Connector "Harj-lock" plug for stage use (20a "stage pin" aka "Bates"). IIRC those lasted in the field for less than 10 years- weren't locking all connectors, the springs tended to give out, and the release buttons broke