Plug and socket outlet connectors used in the amusement industry

Recently, electrical equipment used as connection leads for various amusement rides has been found to use single core cables with single pin plug/socket connections (Pictures 1&2). These connections have been used to supply single or multiphase power to electrical equipment in an uncontrolled environment.

The concern is that these plugs/sockets can be individually connected and disconnected either by a person with limited or no skill, or through inadvertent events.

The use of single connection leads as depicted in picture 1 and 2 is to cease immediately unless engineering and design measures address electrical safety risks. These prevention measures are to address:

• accidental connection and disconnection of the connection leads;
• the incorrect connection and disconnection sequence of the connection leads; or
• the wrong connection of leads to their indented sockets.[JP1]

In addition, the types of connections must comply with the requirements of AS/NZS 3123 (Plugs, socket-outlets and couplers for general industrial application) and individual components must comply with AS/NZS 3820 (Essential Safety Requirements for Low Voltage Electrical Equipment).

Appropriate connections can be made using correct plug and sockets. (Refer to examples below.)

Should Queensland Government Authorised Inspectors find these devices, action will be taken to prohibit or restrict their use and investigations may result in the issue of penalty notices or prosecution.

Example (green ticks) of plugs/socket styles which are acceptable. Note: Various brands are available.

                                    Picture 1                        Picture 2