what gauge cable should be used for UK 15amp lighting extensions

[LDash]

hello just a quickie!

i was just wondering what is the best gauge cable to use for lighting extensions (15amp UK) i know that 2.5mm is the one used for mains distribution but i was wondering whether these extensions where a little higher?

Thanks LDash

 

[JD]

Not sure about the UK, but in the US, 12/3 SO is the norm. The thing about extension cords is that you can never be sure of what they will end up being used for. As most stage ckts are 20 amp, 12/3 becomes the baseline.

With 240 being the norm over in the UK, it may be a whole different animal.

 

[wotsit]

Usual convention in the UK for 15A cables is 1.5mm2 H07 cable.

 

[LightingTechie]

Usual convention in the UK for 15A cables is 1.5mm2 H07 cable.

You beat me to it. That is what I always use, it can also be used for 16A extensions.
DON'T go with H05 cables as well, they don't self-extinguish and some authorities don't like people using it.