AS NZS 3112-2017 (2021) PDF

Full title and description

AS/NZS 3112:2017 — Approval and test specification — Plugs and socket‑outlets. Defines essential safety requirements, dimensions, ratings and test methods for plugs, socket‑outlets and plug portions intended for household and similar purposes; this edition was issued in 2017 and incorporated Amendment 1:2021.

Abstract

This standard specifies essential safety requirements and test procedures for plugs and socket‑outlets intended for use at low or extra‑low voltages with rated currents not exceeding 32 A for household and similar applications. It is intended to be read in conjunction with AS/NZS 3100 (general requirements for electrical equipment) and other relevant safety standards.

General information

• Status: Superseded — the 2017 edition (including Amdt 1:2021) has been replaced by AS/NZS 3112:2025 (published 21 November 2025).
• Publication date: 24 August 2017 (AS/NZS 3112:2017). Amendment 1 published 2021.
• Publisher: Standards Australia / Standards New Zealand (joint publication).
• ICS / categories: Electrical engineering — Plugs and socket‑outlets (ICS 29.120.30 / electrical accessories: plugs, socket‑outlets, couplers).
• Edition / version: 5th edition (AS/NZS 3112:2017) with Amendment 1:2021.
• Number of pages: 78 pages (2017 edition).

Scope

Specifies safety requirements and test methods for plugs, socket‑outlets, plug portions and equipment incorporating plug portions intended for use at rated voltages (low or extra‑low) and rated currents not exceeding 32 A for household and similar purposes. Only safety matters and related conditions are covered; the standard is to be read with AS/NZS 3100 and, where applicable, AS/NZS 3820.

Key topics and requirements

• Requirements for plug construction and materials (terminals, insulating bodies, cord anchorage and means of entry).
• Pin geometry, dimensions and pin insulation rules for different ratings (10 A to 32 A) and interchangeability considerations.
• Earthing arrangements and earthing‑pin dimensions and positions for safety and compatibility.
• Marking, ratings and instructional information required on plugs and socket‑outlets.
• Specified tests: insulation resistance, high‑voltage (dielectric) tests, temperature‑rise, current‑breaking, contact‑strength/withdrawal force, and other mechanical and electrical performance tests.
• Requirements for non‑rewireable plugs, fuses in plugs, and requirements for plug portions (detachable or integral).
• Notes on protective measures and additional protection (for example, later editions introduce shuttering/aperture protection requirements — see AS/NZS 3112:2025).

Typical use and users

Used by manufacturers of plugs and socket‑outlets, test laboratories, conformity assessment bodies, regulators, electrical appliance designers, electricians and procurement/specification teams to ensure product safety, regulatory compliance and interchangeability in Australia and New Zealand. National regulators and certification houses consult this standard when assessing product approvals.

Related standards

Commonly referenced standards include AS/NZS 3100 (Approval and test specification — General requirements for electrical equipment), AS/NZS 3820 (Essential safety requirements for electrical equipment), AS/NZS 3105 (Electrical portable outlet devices), AS/NZS 3120/3122 (cord extension and adaptor standards) and relevant IEC/ISO documents for plugs and socket‑outlet tests (for example IEC/ISO series on plugs and socket‑outlets). Later editions also align with relevant parts of IEC 60884 and other IEC documents for particular test methods.

Keywords

plugs, socket‑outlets, plug portions, Type I, dimensions, earthing, insulation, marking, tests, 10 A, 15 A, 20 A, 25 A, 32 A, AS/NZS 3112, household electrical safety.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: AS/NZS 3112:2017 is the joint Australian/New Zealand standard titled "Approval and test specification — Plugs and socket‑outlets" that sets safety, dimensional and testing requirements for household and similar plugs and sockets. It incorporated Amendment 1 in 2021.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers construction and material requirements, pin and earthing arrangements, ratings and marking, required tests (insulation, dielectric, temperature rise, mechanical endurance, contact strength, etc.), and requirements for plug portions and non‑rewireable plugs for products up to 32 A.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Manufacturers, test laboratories, conformity assessors, regulators, electrical designers, electricians and procurement/specification teams in Australia and New Zealand use the standard to design, test and verify plugs and socket‑outlets.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The 2017 edition (with Amendment 1:2021) has been superseded by AS/NZS 3112:2025 (published 21 November 2025). The 2017 text remains useful for historical reference and for products certified under that edition during any applicable transition period. Always check the current edition required by your regulator or buyer.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — AS/NZS 3112 is part of a family of electrical equipment approval and test specifications (for example AS/NZS 3100, AS/NZS 3105 and related AS/NZS documents) and aligns with IEC technical work on plugs and socket‑outlets.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Key keywords include plugs, socket‑outlets, plug portions, Type I, earthing, insulation, marking, tests, household, 10 A–32 A, AS/NZS 3112, amendment 2021.