Though they admit there are no cases of any children being harmed by socket covers, they argue that the classic British plug three-hole plug socket already has a major safety feature integrated into its design, which is undermined by the use of child plug guards.
David Peacock, a fellow of the IET, said: "In recent years, many companies have been marketing plastic 'safety socket covers' in the misguided belief that these are an essential tool to prevent children from inserting their fingers or other objects into plug sockets. It has now been established that plug-in covers are actually unsafe."
"Our socket covers can only be removed by using the earth pin of a plug," he said. "It is much easier for a child to remove a plug itself and invert it, so it is therefore far safer to cover up the area."
"Our socket covers can only be removed by using the earth pin of a plug," he said. "It is much easier for a child to remove a plug itself and invert it, so it is therefore far safer to cover up the area."
We asked MK, one of the foremost manufacturers of BS 1363 sockets, for their views on socket covers. They replied: |
Our metal socket covers are a simple way to add a clean look to your lighting project. This socket cover fits over our compatible sockets for a clean finished look on your DIY project. This socket cover is compatible with our in conjunction with our . Mix and match with our cloth covered wire for for a colorful light fixture. For any questions pertaining to your specific project, please consult an electrician.
Plug-in Socket Covers Are Dangerous!
The so-called “safety socket cover” usually takes the form of a dummy 13A plug, but real plugs must be made to a very precise size, and sockets are made to fit them. No socket cover we can find is the right size! Putting the wrong size and shape object into a socket causes a number of problems, including permanent socket damage:
Why make it easy to defeat the safety measures your sockets already have?
Lindam Lockable Electric Socket Covers Prevent your young one from tampering with dangerous electrical outlets with the Lindam Xtra Guard Socket Covers. A dual layer of safety is built in, an anti grip design stops your baby or child from fiddiling with the cover and makes it difficult to remove without using a coin.