Safety Switches

A safety switch also known as a residual current device (RCD)

Is an electrical device that monitors the electrical currents flowing from the Active Conductor back through the Neutral Conductor and can disconnect the Power if the Supply is not balanced, such as current flowing through the Human body. They will operate within 30 milliseconds – less than a human heart beat

An electric shock occurs when an electric current flows through the human body. The effects can vary.
With a Safety Switch, a tingling sensation or muscular pain will be felt. Without a safety switch, breathing difficulties, burns and ultimately heart failure can occur.

Safety switches can also protect against fires caused by malfunctioning electrical equipment. Electrical faults can occur in all sorts of appliances including tools and wiring. This may be the result of wear and tear, dampness, deterioration of the insulation.

Safety switches are often confused with Circuit Breakers and that’s why it is important to understand the differences -

Circuit Breakers provide short circuit and over current protection such as when a power circuit has been overloaded. Circuit breakers do not act as a safety switch for personal protection against electric shock.

Safety switches monitor the flow of electricity through a circuit and can detect a problem which may pose a risk to personal safety or Property, if a fault is detected the power will be disconnected.

Safety switches have a test button to ensure they are working correctly.

Sometimes they are labeled with the words “safety switch”.

If you haven’t installed one already, seriously consider having one installed for the safety of you, your family and your property.

If you’re unsure whether you have a safety switch installed, contact us and we can check for you.