Utter confusion on the electrical front.

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I still need to get serious about the mains wiring. Damp-proof sockets and separate switches would be so much easier. Not to mention being much safer than lots of daisy-chained, extension cords, multi-sockets and pulling and/or inserting plugs all time. Fortunately the very low electrical demands do not threaten my rather amateur supply system.

I'd rather avoid the huge waterproof plugs and sockets typically used on building sites. IP44. Shock and splash resistant plugs and multi-sockets would be preferable. There is also a class of plugs and socket intended for lawnmowers, hedge clippers and similar garden equipment. These normally use two pin plugs and sockets and twin core extension leads.

Then there is a type of waterproof socket which can be fixed to a post in the garden. I think these are earthed and must be installed by a qualified electrician.

Most existing Danish homes don't use earthed sockets indoors. Earthed electrical equipment is quite a recent invention here apparently. They have confused the issue even further by having Schuko earthing. Which is not to be confused with UK, US, European or Danish earthing systems. Confused? So am I!

A trip to a builder's merchant chain was a complete and utter waste of time. Racks and racks of Big Name, power tools fitted with mains leads. ALL of them with round, moulded on, black plastic plugs with ONLY TWO PINS!

So, it seems there is no middle ground between bulky IP44 and normal, INDOOR, domestic lighting, 2-pin sockets. There is no REAL multi-socket option for building workers using commonplace 2-pin mains equipment out of doors! Not unless they cut off their neat, fixed plugs and fit whopping great 3-pin EARTHED IP44 plugs to all their 2-pin, 2-core, double insulated, cabled equipment.

Famous last words! I found another builder's merchant today with a helpful member of staff. He pointed me at the items in the image. A multi-socket with shielded outlets [when devoid of a plug] and a rubber covered switch. Possibly illuminated? I haven't tried it yet.

As he pointed out, the plugs are shatterproof and being round, seal much better to the round sockets in damp or rainy conditions. Moreover the plugs have rubber cable sleeves to exclude rain and act as a resistance to side pulls on the cable. The multi-socket body is provided with secure fixing points. So I can attach it safely to my pier. Helpful when pulling plugs and keeps it off the floor.

There is no need to connect the cables to the earth pins unless so desired. Not much point, or even possible, when the connecting cable is 2-core. Though the sockets might gain some safety margin for being properly earthed. Much smarter than the white, domestic, multi-sockets I have been using so far in the observatory.  The total cost for the items shown was about £30 equivalent. I could have got them cheaper online but when you have such helpful staff you invest in the bricks and mortar.

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