# RCD-protected socket outlet

Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/iec-rcd-protected-socket-outlet
Publisher: Elora Grid
Updated: 2026-10-28
Lookup label: SO-RCD
Drawing use: GA
Reference families: IEC

## Symbol convention

Convention: IEC
Form: Socket outlet with residual-current device
IEC 60617 installation-plan style (architectural and topographical installation symbols); independently drawn, not certified IEC geometry or a database identifier.

Plan mark for a socket outlet with residual-current protection built into the accessory itself.

## In plain English

### What does RCD-protected socket outlet mean?

Some outlets include a residual-current device in the accessory so that protection is provided at the point of use. Plans show this by tagging the outlet with RCD or a small residual-current mark, letting the electrician select a protected accessory instead of relying on the distribution board.

### A simple example

This approach is used for single outdoor outlets, refurbishment work where the board cannot take additional RCDs, and outlets used for portable tools. The plan symbol should be read with the board schedule so the designer can avoid double protection or check discrimination between the outlet RCD and an upstream device.

### What the drawings help you do

The mark does not state the RCD type, rated residual current or test arrangement. A plain outlet on an RCD-protected circuit is protected at the board and is drawn without this tag.

### This particular reference

Plan mark for a socket outlet with residual-current protection built into the accessory itself. An outlet on a circuit protected by a residual-current circuit breaker is drawn plainly; this form puts the RCD in the outlet.

### Terms

- Rating: A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
- Schematic: A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.

Concept diagram: Identify the device and form → Read the connections and state → Check the equipment reference
A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram.

- [Form factors of residual-current devices](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/Form_factors_of_RCDs)
- [Residual current device categories](https://www.se.com/au/en/faqs/FAQ000218859/)
- [IEC graphical symbols for diagrams](https://tc3.iec.ch/tc-activity/graphical-symbols-for-diagrams/)


## What it represents

Some outlets include a residual-current device in the accessory so that protection is provided at the point of use. Plans show this by tagging the outlet with RCD or a small residual-current mark, letting the electrician select a protected accessory instead of relying on the distribution board.
This approach is used for single outdoor outlets, refurbishment work where the board cannot take additional RCDs, and outlets used for portable tools. The plan symbol should be read with the board schedule so the designer can avoid double protection or check discrimination between the outlet RCD and an upstream device.
The mark does not state the RCD type, rated residual current or test arrangement. A plain outlet on an RCD-protected circuit is protected at the board and is drawn without this tag.

## How to read it

- Distinguish outlet-integral protection from protection at the board.
- Look for the RCD type in the specification, not on the plan.

## Information to show or reference

- State rated residual operating current and RCD type.
- Check discrimination with upstream residual-current devices.
- Show the test button accessibility if mounted high.

## Important distinction

An outlet on a circuit protected by a residual-current circuit breaker is drawn plainly; this form puts the RCD in the outlet.

## Facts

- Protection location: Inside the outlet accessory
- Related US form: GFCI receptacle
- Exact standard graphic: Not reproduced here; confirm the form against IEC 60617 and the project legend

## Public references

- [Form factors of residual-current devices](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/Form_factors_of_RCDs) — Schneider Electric — Electrical Installation Guide. Explains the physical forms residual-current protection can take, including socket-outlet integration.
- [Residual current device categories](https://www.se.com/au/en/faqs/FAQ000218859/) — Schneider Electric. Manufacturer explanation of residual-current device types and categories.
- [IEC graphical symbols for diagrams](https://tc3.iec.ch/tc-activity/graphical-symbols-for-diagrams/) — IEC. IEC committee context for graphical symbols used in diagrams and installation documents; not a source of reproduced artwork.

## Graphic scope

Independent original educational concept illustration by Elora Grid. Not a certified standards graphic or manufacturer footprint. Unitless; not to scale. Original artwork licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/. Publisher material is linked only.