Why the Prongs on US Electrical Plugs Have Holes

Alec Watson of Technology Connections took a look at a variety of electrical plugs used in the United States to find out why every plug has a hole on each prong. He first explains why one of the prongs is wider than the other due to polarization but has a bit more difficulty finding out why the holes are there.

Today we’re answering the age-old question “why do US plugs have holes in them?” That’s a great question! And many people have asked that. Especially people who have noticed that plugs have holes in them. …Well, the toads over at NEMA actually do tell us what the deal is with the holes. The holes are, and I quote, ‘Optional, and it is intended for manufacturing purposes only. However, if used, it must be located as per dimensions shown above.’ Interesting.

Watson suggests that the holes are there in order to align the plugs as they are being forged.

The worker simply has to thread an alignment rod through this holder, place the blades and wires in there while pushing the rod through as they go, give a tug to ensure its aligned, and boom. Plugs made to spec.

Despite his speculation, Watson makes it clear that he’s not getting the whole story about these holes.