Safety Switches
All homes built since 1992 must have safety switches installed on power circuits – it is a legal requirement.
A Safety switch:
- is a device fitted to most household switchboards
- are designed to protect people and prevent injury and death
- monitors the flow of electricity through a circuit
- detect leakage from faulty switches, wiring or appliances
- stops the chance of current flowing to earth and electrocuting a person
- automatically cuts power in less than 1 second
- is your insurance against electrical shock
- is an inexpensive safety measure protecting you and your family
- also known as a residual current device (RCD)
A Safety switch is not:
- a circuit breaker
- a fuse
- a surge protector
- failsafe
IMPORTANT: Check your safety switch, electrical wiring, appliances, extension leads and other electrical equipment regularly.
Installing a safety switch is an inexpensive safety measure that protects everyone.
Testing Your Safety Switch
- Press the TEST button which should automatically trip the switch to the ‘off’ position.
- If it doesn’t work or ‘trips’ or ‘keeps tripping’ after resetting contact your electrical contractor.
TEST YOUR SAFETY SWITCH EVERY THREE MONTHS
Safety Switch Tips:
- Existing lighting can be fitted with safety switches as an increased safety measure for your family
- If using decorative lighting consider a portable safety switch as an added safety measure
Other Types of Safety Switches
- Portable Safety Switches – used with plug-in electrical equipment indoors or out
“Every year, 15 people are killed in Australian homes in electrical accidents that could be prevented if a safety switch was fitted on the electrical circuit.” Master Electricians Switch Thinking Report
