Triple Pole 6A Fan Isolator Switch in Matte Brass Plate and Black Switch by Forbes and Lomax

This is the Forbes and Lomax FAN/MBS 1 Gang 6A Triple Pole Fan Isolator Switch in Matte Brass Flat Plate with Black Switch and Insert available at SparksDirect.co.uk for the best price. The Forbes and Lomax FAN/MBS is a dedicated 6A triple pole fan isolator switch engineered specifically for safe, local isolation of extractor fans in residential and commercial properties. Built on Forbes & Lomax’s signature low-profile flat plate architecture, this single-gang accessory provides a mandatory electrical safety point for bathroom, en-suite, or kitchen ventilation units, allowing maintenance and repairs without cutting power to the rest of the lighting circuit.

Exhibiting soft, muted golden undertones, the Matte Brass finish brings subtle warmth, architectural elegance, and period refinement to bathrooms (outside zone 2), cloakrooms, en-suites, and utility spaces. Unlike unlacquered "living" brass, the faceplate features a factory-applied baked clear lacquer coating. This protective seal guards the metal surface against daily wear, oxidation, tarnishing, and fingerprint smudges, ensuring the unit retains its pristine appearance over time without requiring regular hand polishing.

Designed to strictly fulfill UK wiring safety standards, the FAN/MBS features a triple pole switching mechanism that simultaneously disconnects live, neutral, and switched live conductors. Paired with a choice of high-grade black or white plastic switch rockers and insert surrounds, this unit guarantees complete physical electrical isolation for timer-delay extractor fan units while coordinating seamlessly with matching Matte Brass switches and sockets across the property.

Features & Benefits

• Triple Pole Safety Isolation: Disconnects all three active conductors (Live, Switched Live, and Neutral) simultaneously for complete, safe maintenance isolation.
• Safe Extractor Fan Maintenance: Allows maintenance, cleaning, or replacement of ventilation fans without affecting general room lighting circuits.
• Ultra-Slim Flat Plate Profile: Features Forbes & Lomax’s signature low-profile flat plate design for a flush, architectural finish against decorated walls.
• Refined Matte Brass Finish: Soft golden hues bring subtle warmth and luxury to both contemporary and period-inspired interiors.
• Baked Clear Lacquer Protection: Factory-applied protective seal prevents tarnishing, oxidation, and fingerprint marks for low-maintenance upkeep.
• Choice of Plastic Switch Trims: Available with a crisp white or classic black plastic switch rocker and insert trim surround to suit wall decor and palette schemes.
• Solid Brass Engineering: Crafted from high-grade brass components for long-term structural stiffness and a heavy, premium feel.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Forbes & Lomax
• Product Code / Model: FAN/MBS
• Accessory Type: 1 Gang 6A Triple Pole Fan Isolator Switch
• Plate Finish: Matte Brass (Lacquered)
• Switch & Insert Options: Black or White Plastic Rocker Switch & Insert Trim Surround
• Plate Style: Flat Plate / Concealed Sub-Frame Mounting
• Number of Gangs: 1 Gang (Single Size Footprint)
• Current Rating: 6 Amp
• Voltage Rating: 220–240V AC, 50Hz
• Switching Type: Triple Pole (TP)
• Terminal Capacity: 3 x 2.5mm² or 2 x 4.0mm² conductors
• Standard Compliance: BS EN 60669-2-4 / BS EN 60669-1
• Plate Dimensions: Standard Single Gang Footprint (86mm x 86mm)
• IP Rating: IP2XD (Suitable for installation outside bathroom Zone 2)
• Operating Temperature: -5°C to +40°C
• Maximum Installation Altitude: 2000 metres
• Backbox Depth Required: Minimum 35mm deep flush wall box recommended

Three Reasons Customers Recommend This

1. Full Compliance with Wiring Regulations: Meets strict UK Building Regulations requiring triple pole isolation for extractor fans with timer overruns.
2. Maintains Room Aesthetic: Replaces utilitarian white plastic fan isolators with luxury brass hardware that perfectly matches surrounding light switches.
3. Maintenance-Free Lacquered Finish: The protective clear lacquer prevents oxidation and thumbprints, removing the need for regular hand polishing.
4. Who Can Install This?

In the UK, electrical installation work in special locations like bathrooms, en-suites, or kitchens must strictly comply with BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) and Part P of the Building Regulations. Installing or replacing a 3-pole fan isolator switch involves multi-core wiring (permanent live, switched live, neutral, and earth) and must be carried out by a qualified, registered electrician to ensure safe circuit isolation and regulatory compliance.

Who Is This For?

• Interior Designers & Architects: Specifying luxury, unified wall accessories in high-end bathrooms, master en-suites, and cloakrooms where standard white plastic fan isolators would detract from the decor.
• Electricians & Contractors: Requiring premium, BS EN 60669-2-4 compliant triple pole fan switches that fit reliably into standard UK single flush backboxes.
• Homeowners & Renovators: Looking to upgrade functional utility switches in bathrooms and utility rooms with luxury brass hardware that coordinates across the entire home.

About the Forbes & Lomax Matte Brass Range

The Matte Brass collection by Forbes & Lomax offers a subtle, warm alternative to high-shine polished brass hardware. Featuring soft golden tones, each faceplate and control component undergoes a specialized lacquering process with a durable baked clear finish. This protective coating guards against daily wear, oxidation, and fingerprint staining, removing the need for polishing.

The full Forbes & Lomax Matte Brass range includes matching accessories such as:

• 1-Way, 2-Way, Intermediate, and Double Pole Dolly Switches
• Standard, Architrave, and Screwless Flat Plates across 1-Gang to Multi-Gang layouts
• Rotary Dimmers & Push Button Dimmer Switches
• Modern Rocker Switches (available with Black or White trims across 1-Gang to 4-Gang layouts)
• 13A Power Outlets & Integrated USB Charger Sockets
• 2A & 5A Unswitched / Switched Round-Pin Sockets
• Telecom, Data, Audio/Visual Outlets & Combination Grid Packs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a triple pole switch required for an extractor fan instead of a double pole switch?

Fans with timer run-on functions use three conductors (permanent live, switched live, and neutral). A triple pole switch isolator disconnects all three simultaneously to ensure no stray live current reaches the unit during servicing.

Can this fan isolator switch be installed inside a shower enclosure?

No. Like standard wall switches, this plate is IP2XD rated and must be installed outside Zone 0, Zone 1, and Zone 2 in a bathroom (typically outside the room or far away from direct water spray).

Is this model available with a matching metal switch rocker instead of plastic?

Yes, Forbes & Lomax produces metal-rocker versions across their range (e.g., FANM/MBS) for customers seeking an all-metal switch finish.

What Else Do You Need With This?

• Flush Metal Backbox: A standard UK single-gang flush metal backbox (86mm x 86mm footprint; minimum 35mm depth recommended).
• 3-Core and Earth Cable: Required by electricians to route permanent live, switched live, neutral, and earth feeds from the lighting circuit and fan.
• Matching Switches & Sockets: Complementary Forbes & Lomax Matte Brass light switches, dimmers, or 13A mains sockets to maintain hardware continuity across the property.

Note: Some images and pictures are for reference only. The item may differ from the image/picture due to manufacturer's change. Should you require the exact item in the picture, please call or email us to enquire.