What exactly is a safety switch and how does it help?
In essence, a safety switch is a device that can immediately detect when there is an electricity leak and will cut the flow at the source immediately. This could be when a person has accidentally made contact with the current or there is a perceived threat of leakage. Potentially this simple device could and does save lives.
How do I go about getting a safety switch installed?
A good electrician will be able to install them for you. They will also be able to advise you of the best places to locate them. The good news is that they are inexpensive to buy. The price of the job will vary due to the size of the house, the number of switches to be installed.
How do I know if it's working or not?
The answer is to carry out a quick test. Although safety switches come in different designs and models, they will all have a ‘test’ button that you can press. If it’s working it should immediately trip the electrical circuit that it’s connected to. The switch then just needs to be reset. If it appears not to be working, then contact a skilled electrician (we recommend Rolly’s Electrical 😁 ) who can either repair the existing switch or replace it for a new one. As for the frequency of testing….a quick test once a month should be more than sufficient to give you total peace of mind.
How to test a
- Locate the safety switch on your switchboard.
- Press the T button.
- The safety switch should automatically trip to the off position.
- Reset the safety switch by pushing it back to the ON position.
- If the safety switch doesn’t reset, call a licensed electrician to assess the issue.
Commercial Properties
All portable electrical appliances that meet the criteria set out in the standard AS/NZS 3760 need to be checked. That means any device that has a flexible cable, a removable plug and a voltage in excess of 50V should be tested and certified as safe to use. In addition to your business-related equipment, this also includes ancillary appliances such as kettles, microwaves and refrigerators. It also includes extension leads, cord sets, and portable residual current devices (RCDs).
TALK TO ROLLY’S ELECTRICAL TODAY!
We are located in the Queensland’s Greater Townsville region and office hours are 9:00 am-5:00 pm and the boys are on site 7:30 am-4:30 pm mon-thurs and 7:30 am-3:30 pm Friday. You may also reach out to us on email.
Rolly services cover Magnetic Island, Kirwan, and the greater Townsville region.
Count on our dedicated team of skilled electricians to first visit you and survey all your portable electrical equipment before giving you a free and fair quote for all Test and Tag Townsville services.
