Safety Switch Testing

How does a safety switch work?

On a normal power circuit, the current flowing to an appliance returns through the neutral wire. If the circuit is compromised, the electricity can leak to earth through a person in contact with the appliance, causing death or serious injury.

A safety switch detects the loss of power from the circuit and cuts the supply of electricity in as little as 30 milliseconds or 0.003 seconds. Importantly, this response time is faster than the critical section of a heartbeat, and therefore significantly reduces the risk of death or serious injury.

Are safety switches compulsory in Qld?

Yes - safety switches have been compulsory on the power outlet circuits of new homes since the early 1990s, and on the light and power circuits of new homes in most states since 2000. Safety switches provide a higher level of protection against electrocution or electric shock and have a proven track record of saving lives.

We recommend installing safety switches on all the circuits in your home to fully protect your family from electrical accidents.