03/11/2025
It is also not allowed to have a fixed socket-outlet installation where some sockets can be turned off with a switch, while others can’t. South Africa’s new plug and socket standard, SANS 164-2 or ZA Plug, has become mandatory for new installations. This means that any new building erected from 1 January 2018 must incorporate electrical sockets that conform to the new standard, the existing standard will however remain legal. This decision was made for the consumers safety. It is mandatory to have at least 1 new ZA Plug in each new wall mounted socket, it is not mandatory for the new plug to be switched.