At Integrate Solutions, we prioritise the safety of our clients and their properties. Our electrical contracting services include the installation, maintenance, and testing of safety switches, also known as residual current devices (RCDs). These devices are critical for protecting against electrical hazards in your home, such as electric shock and electrical fires.
Residual Current Devices (RCD’s)
What is an RCD?
A Residual Current Device (RCD) commonly referred to as a Safety Switch, is an electrical safety device critical to the protection against, and reduction in electric shocks, electrical fires caused by faults in an electrical installation.
How do they work?
RCD’s work by monitoring the flow of electricity through a circuit, identifying any imbalance between the current flowing through the live (active) conductor and returning back through the neutral conductor.
Under normal operating conditions, the current passing through the live conductor should be equal to that returning back through the neutral. If there is an imbalance in this return current, the RCD triggers a disconnection mechanism, terminating the flow of electricity and thus mitigating any potential risk of electric shock or fire.
Power Point Safety Hazards
What can cause a current imbalance?
There are many potential causes for a returning current imbalance in an electrical circuit. The more common causes are the presence of a fault, such as
a short circuit
contact with live parts
A faulty appliance
Damaged wiring
These can present in faults such as the cutting of a live cable, touching a live cable/wire, or the most common example of the 1990’s; sticking a fork into a powerpoint.
In summary, the key function of an RCD is to continuously monitor the electrical circuit for any abnormalities and to swiftly disconnect the power supply to prevent potentially dangerous situations. This makes RCDs essential components of electrical safety systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Benefits of Safety Switches
Enhanced Safety
Safety switches continuously monitor the flow of electricity and quickly shut off power when they detect a fault, which can significantly reduce the risk of electric shock and fire.
Compliance
Ensuring your property is equipped with working safety switches is not only essential for your safety, but also required on any new electrical works at new or existing domestic properties. There are also new legal requirements and regulations for rental properties under the Victorian Tenancies Act, requiring safety switches to be installed on all power and lighting circuits.
Peace of Mind
With safety switches installed by our experienced professionals, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones and assets are protected against electrical dangers.
Contact Us
Get in touch with us to find the best solution for your electrical needs!
ben@integratesolutions.com.au
0403 147 430