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

Useful Links

All about Safety Switches