Residual Current Devices
[ Last Updated 3 July 2007 ]
An RCD constantly monitors the current flowing along a circuit. If it senses any loss of current, where electricity is diverting to the ground rather than through the circuit, it will immediately shut off.
If your body is providing the path for the electricity to divert to the ground, you could be seriously injured, burned, severely shocked or electrocuted.
- An RCD will prevent the shock being fatal by shutting the system down instantly.
- RCDs should be installed in damp areas of your home where there are electric fittings, such as bathrooms, laundries, kitchens, garages, pools and external electric outlets.
Different types of RCDs include fixed RCDs, which can be installed in standard socket outlets and wired in a way that protects other outlets downstream, circuit RCDs, which are wired into your switchboard, and portable RCDs.
Testing Your RCD
Test your RCD regularly by plugging in a small electric appliance.
- Press the test button.
- If the appliance turns off, the RCD is working.
- If it stays on, get your RCD checked by a licensed electrical worker.
- Make sure you press reset once the test is complete.
Link to the Residual Current Devices' publication [PDF]
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