Switches & Disconnects

Protecting your electrical system, and yourself.

According to the NEC, safety switches are used for two main purposes: As a disconnecting means for a service entrance, and a disconnecting means for motors. These power safety switches are an essential piece of any electrical system, as they allow for safe maintenance and protect the operator from electrocution by disconnecting and halting power flow.

Switches and electrical disconnects secure an electrical system when there is a risk of electrocution. Switches and disconnects, also referred to as machine switches, machine safety switches, safety switches, and safety disconnects, are used as a means to safely disconnect equipment from its power source (disconnect and safety switches) or transfer the flow of electricity to another source (transfer switches). Also, a disconnect switch can do the job of both a load switch as well as an isolating switch in one package, meaning it can cut the electrical supply and break currents when necessary.

Choosing the right switch or electrical disconnect.

Safety switches and disconnect switches are used in almost every application imaginable. They are a necessary feature across all residential, industrial and commercial applications to ensure safe usage of equipment and to deliver a steady, uninterrupted flow of power, so it always helps to know as much as you can about the safety disconnect you’re looking for. Having some of the following information on hand can go a long way:

• Current rating
• Operating voltage
• Horsepower rating
• Short-circuit interrupting capacity
• Number of poles

Bay Power carries a wide variety of safety disconnects, automatic and manual transfer switches, rotary switches, AC disconnects, double throw switches, solar switches, enclosed switches, open switches, and more, all in compliance with UL 98, UL 508, and UL 489 standards.