Residual Current Device (RCD) Testing or a Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCCB) are more commonly known as safety switches mounted in your switchboard. These are designed to isolate power when an imbalance is detected between active and neutral conductors (a change of < 30 milliamps). These imbalances are commonly caused by current leakage through earth. The leakage itself can be caused by a faulty appliance or through the body of a person whom accidentally touches an energised piece of equipment. RCD/RCCB’s are designed to disconnect power to the circuit when a difference of 30 mA is detected. This disconnection, or tripping of the breaker, should occur without delay, if the RCD/RCCB takes too long to trip, the results could be fatal.
Under Work cover NSW Code of Practice 2007, paragraph 5.8 states that ‘all RCD devices either portable or fixed are subject to a tripping time test using a RCD tester that is carried out by a licensed electrician.’
Testing of all permanent and/or portable personal equipment used for both business and personal applications, are required to be inspected and tagged by a licensed electrician at regular intervals. In doing this it maintains a safe work and home environment, free from faulty appliances and equipment.
If you wish to talk to us about your safety switches (RCD testing) or Test & Tagging requirements, please call CQ Electrical Group on 1300 295 811 for a free onsite quotation.
