# Switched socket outlet Canonical URL: https://eloragrid.ai/symbols/iec-switched-socket-outlet Publisher: Elora Grid Updated: 2026-10-28 Lookup label: SSO Drawing use: GA Reference families: IEC ## Symbol convention Convention: IEC Form: Switched socket outlet 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 its own integral switch that controls the supply to the plug. ## In plain English ### What does Switched socket outlet mean? A switched socket outlet combines the outlet and a single-pole or double-pole switch in one accessory plate. On the plan the outlet half circle carries a short switch stroke with a tick, borrowed from the light-switch form, showing that the user can interrupt supply at the outlet without removing the plug. ### A simple example Switched outlets are the norm in Australian and British domestic work and common in kitchens, offices and plant rooms elsewhere. The symbol helps the electrician choose the correct accessory and helps the estimator count switched against unswitched outlets, which differ in cost and in the depth of box required. ### What the drawings help you do The mark does not say whether the switch breaks one pole or both, and it does not make the outlet suitable for isolation of fixed equipment. Pole count and any isolation duty should be stated in the specification. ### This particular reference Plan mark for a socket outlet with its own integral switch that controls the supply to the plug. A socket outlet with interlocked switch prevents plug insertion or withdrawal while supplied with operating power; a plain switched outlet only lets the user switch the supply. ### Terms - 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. - [IEC graphical symbols for diagrams](https://tc3.iec.ch/tc-activity/graphical-symbols-for-diagrams/) - [Elementary switching devices](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/Elementary_switching_devices) - [Electrical installation design methodology and references](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/General_rules_of_electrical_installation_design) ## What it represents A switched socket outlet combines the outlet and a single-pole or double-pole switch in one accessory plate. On the plan the outlet half circle carries a short switch stroke with a tick, borrowed from the light-switch form, showing that the user can interrupt supply at the outlet without removing the plug. Switched outlets are the norm in Australian and British domestic work and common in kitchens, offices and plant rooms elsewhere. The symbol helps the electrician choose the correct accessory and helps the estimator count switched against unswitched outlets, which differ in cost and in the depth of box required. The mark does not say whether the switch breaks one pole or both, and it does not make the outlet suitable for isolation of fixed equipment. Pole count and any isolation duty should be stated in the specification. ## How to read it - The switch stroke is attached to the outlet, not drawn as a separate switch symbol nearby. - Count switched and unswitched outlets separately when taking off quantities. ## Information to show or reference - Specify single-pole or double-pole switching. - Identify outlets that must be unswitched, such as refrigerator or server outlets. - Keep circuit tags and earthing information on the symbol. ## Important distinction A socket outlet with interlocked switch prevents plug insertion or withdrawal while energised; a plain switched outlet only lets the user switch the supply. ## Facts - Drawing role: Outlet with local on/off control - Quantity note: Counted separately from unswitched outlets - Exact standard graphic: Not reproduced here; confirm the form against IEC 60617 and the project legend ## Public references - [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. - [Elementary switching devices](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/Elementary_switching_devices) — Schneider Electric — Electrical Installation Guide. Explains elementary switching functions such as isolation, control and functional switching. - [Electrical installation design methodology and references](https://www.electrical-installation.org/enwiki/General_rules_of_electrical_installation_design) — Schneider Electric — Electrical Installation Guide. Installation design methodology context: circuits, outlets and final distribution are planned before symbols are placed. ## 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.