Plugs recognised for motor circuit disconnection

Meltric's Decontactor Series product line has recently been listed by Underwriters Laboratory under the new UL Subject Standard 2682 covering "Switch rated plugs and receptacles".

Meltric's Decontactor Series product line has recently been listed by Underwriters Laboratory under the new UL Subject Standard 2682 covering "Switch rated plugs and receptacles".

Devices listed under UL Subject 2682 allow users to safely make and break electrical connections and thus they can function as a motor circuit disconnect switch and as a branch circuit disconnect switch.

Decontactor Series plugs and receptacles feature a integral switching technology which ensures that the plugs electrical contacts are safely de-energised before they can be withdrawn from the receptacle.

Additionally, once a Decontactor plug is removed, the receptacle's dead front further ensures worker safety by preventing unintentional access to live parts to all but the correct mating plug.

These features help simplify OSHA and NFPA 70E compliance.

Plugs and receptacles that are not UL Subject 2682 listed, such as pin and sleeve type or twist lock devices, are not safe to disconnect under load.

This unsafe action may potentially expose workers to arc flash which can cause severe burns.

Managers should carefully identify all electrical devices in their facility that are potentially unsafe.

Options for correcting code violations and dangerous work conditions should be considered.

When plugs and receptacles are involved, often times the practical solution is to replace pin and sleeve or twist type devices with UL Subject 2682 listed devices such as Meltric's Decontactor Series plugs and receptacles.

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