SASO warns of the dangers of non-conforming sockets on the consumer
SASO has warned of the dangers of using counterfeit, low quality, and adulterated electrical sockets, which usually are non- conforming with the Saudi standard specifications adopted in this regard. SASO demanded the consumers to be careful and cautious of the dangers of overloading of the electrical devices on sockets and the resulting high temperatures may lead to short circuits and fires in power strips and electrical appliances (God forbid).
SASO has explained that these dangers causes could be avoided by following safety guidelines set forth in the Saudi standards and technical regulations. The most important is to ensure that the electrical circuit is provided with an electrical breaker suitable for the voltage used, taking into account not overloading the socket more than its capacity. In addition, not to use low quality power strips or connect a number of electrical appliances in the same power strip (at the same time).
SASO has indicated that it has issued several Saudi standards and technical regulations in the field of electrical sockets, noting that due to the lack of commitment by some traders, manufacturers and importers to implement these standard specifications. For those sockets dangers to the consumer and his appliances and possessions, the approval of the Minister of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of SASO's Board of Directors, has been issued in 2010, corresponding to 1431AH. That approval was to confirm that all traders, manufacturers and importers have to commit applying the Saudi standards and technical regulations of plugs and sockets.
SASO has noted that according to the system of dual voltage used in the residential areas, SASO has issued two different types of plugs and sockets, one for voltage (220 V) and bear to (13) amp, and the other for voltage (127 V) and bears up (15 amp).SASO has pointed out that these standards have included many requirements and technical requirements to ensure "God willing" consumer protection. The most important is not to confuse (voltage 220 V and voltage 127 V), and the requirement of a third part in the plug and socket (for grounding). That is effective for all metal parts non-bearing the current that could become electrified in the case of the collapse of the insulation and has the symbol (E) or (G). In addition, the sockets are provided with shutters closing the holes bearing the current in the case of non-use of the socket so as to protect children. They open automatically when the plug enters into the socket in addition to that the plug of voltage (220 V) is provided with fuse (13 amp) to protect the plug ,socket and wires in the case of increasing the current over this value. Furthermore, the socket switches are designed in which that an electric spark would not happen, and not let the electrified parts be touched after installation and connecting the wires.
SASO has noted that the Saudi standards have stated on the need to make indicative information clear on each plug and socket, in a clear way including the country of origin ,name of the manufacturer and trademark, the current in ampere, the voltage in volt and differentiation of electrified and neutral poles and grounding pole, as well as the word "fused" for the plugs provided with (fuses).
This comes within the framework of the awareness campaign launched by SASO recently to raise awareness among consumers for the importance of buying non-conforming sockets. Those sockets provide the consumer with higher rates of security and safety. All campaign details can be found through visiting the website www.saso.gov.sa.