The concept of using a plug and receptacle as a switch was conceived in the 1950s by a French electrician who witnessed a severe injury due to unplugging a motor. However, it was not until the late 1990s/early 2000s that the industry became more interested in using the configuration for safety reasons. Today, there are only three companies worldwide that offer switch-rated connector systems, including Molex.

To protect workers and adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, switch-rated connectors offer a cost-effective solution that is easy to implement. Switch-rated connectors help companies satisfy a significant OSHA safety requirement 29 CFR 1910.333(a)(1) “Deenergized parts.”

Satisfying this OSHA regulation when using traditional switches requires trained technicians and specific personal protective equipment (PPE). Potentially broken parts, faulty design, or degradation over time make it more likely for a switch to fail, which is why these regulations require voltmeter proof of absence of voltage conduct by an electrician or a specially trained technician wearing special PPE.

With a switch-rated connector, the number one benefit is removing the hazard. As a separable switch, the physical and visual separation proves there is no power coming out to the machine, which satisfies the requirements of OSHA and NFPA as proof that power has been removed, for a safer, faster, and easier approach to de-energizing.