SAFETY SWITCHES SAVE LIVES!
The AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules state that ‘ALL final sub-circuits need to be RCD protected.’
Final sub-circuits refer to the circuits that connect directly to the end-use equipment or devices in a building’s electrical system. These circuits typically branch off from a distribution board and are the last point of connection before reaching appliances, lights, power outlets, or other electrical fixtures.
For example, in a household:
- A sub-circuit might supply power to kitchen outlets where appliances are plugged in.
- Another sub-circuit could be dedicated to lighting in a specific area, like the living room.
- Fixed equipment such as a hot water system or air conditioner would also have their own dedicated final sub-circuits.
IF YOU BELIEVE YOUR SWITCHBOARD IS NOT AS SAFE AS IT COULD OR SHOULD BE – CALL HARLE’S ELECTRICAL ON 4068 7214.
Residual Current Devices (RCDs) have been proven to save lives by preventing electrical accidents. They are responsible for the significant reduction in fatalities caused by electrical faults.
Residual Current Devices (RCDs) work by monitoring the flow of electrical current through a circuit. They are designed to detect imbalance or “leakage” currents, which can happen when electricity flows through unintended paths, such as a person touching a live wire.
Here’s how they operate:
- Normal Operation: Under usual conditions, the current flowing into a device (through the live wire) matches the current returning (via the neutral wire).
- Detection of Leakage: If there’s a discrepancy—such as current escaping through a person to the ground—the RCD identifies this imbalance.
- Rapid Response: Once the leakage current reaches a pre-determined threshold, the RCD shuts off the electrical supply within milliseconds. This swift action minimizes the risk of injury or death from electric shock.
RCDs are incredibly sensitive and a vital tool for electrical safety.
A Safety switch:
- is a device fitted to 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 within milliseconds
- is your insurance against electrical shock
- is an inexpensive safety measure protecting you and your family
- also known as a residual current device (RCD) or an earth leakage device
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.
Safety switches are 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 MONTH
Call Harle’s Electrical if you need more Safety Switches installed in your switchboard. Can you afford not to when the safety of your loved ones is at stake?
Safety switches save lives.
