Switches and circuit breakers used as disconnecting means for appliances must be of which type?

The correct answer is indicating type. Switches and circuit breakers used as disconnecting means for appliances must provide a clear indication of their positions, ensuring that users can easily determine whether the appliance is in an "on" or "off" state. This visibility is crucial for safety, as it helps prevent accidental energization when maintenance or repairs are being performed.

Indicating type switches or breakers typically have visual indicators, such as lights or mechanical displays, that show their operational status. This functionality is particularly important in environments where multiple devices might be operated or serviced, as it reduces the potential for human error and increases overall safety for personnel working with electrical systems.

In contrast, non-indicating, manual, and automatic types do not fulfill this particular requirement effectively. Non-indicating switches do not provide a visual confirmation. Manual types, while requiring user action, could lack the necessary indication feature, and automatic types may not involve direct user control in the same way, potentially leading to uncertainty regarding the operational status of the equipment. Thus, indicating types are indispensable for ensuring safe operation and maintenance of electrical appliances.