Switches

Purpose:

-switches are for functional switching.

-This means they are for everyday use by the consumer. 

They are designed to open and close under full load. 

Isolators

Purpose:

-Isolators are for disconnecting from the supply. 

-This means they are used to mae circuits safe to work on for repairs or servicing by an electrician or in an emergency. 

-They are usually double pole or more (disconnect all live conductors)