RCDs protect your employees, contractors, visitors and equipment from the risk of electric shock, injury or even death!
RCDs, or Residual current circuit breakers, or safety switches, protect the user from the most common cause of electric shock, which is transmitted through the body to the ground.
An RCD is a safety device designed to trip or instantly cut off all power to the circuit to which the RCD is connected. These devices work by monitoring the flow of current through the connected circuit and automatically shutting off the power when it detects that a harmful level of current is leaking to ground. The RCD can be connected to a portable distribution board or fixed socket or main distribution board.
What is an RCD test?
RCD tests intentionally trips the RCD to ensure that it is working effectively in the event of an electrical accident or fault to earth. The faster the RCD trips, the less likely it is that someone or YOU will be electrocuted. RCDs must be regularly tested to confirm they`re working to the specified safety standards.
Requirements for businesses
In addition, companies may be required by law to obtain regular RCD tests. In New South Wales, this applies if your business is in a high-risk environment* as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Regulations (WHS Regulations). These regulations require regular RCD testing in accordance with Australian and New Zealand Standard AS / NZS 3000: 2018. As a person who runs a business or undertakes a PCBU (person conducting a business or undertaking), there is a specific obligation under the WHS rules to use the appropriate RCD as needed. Obligations also require the PCBU’s to check its operation and guarantee its functionality regularly and keep a record of the testing onsite.
You could be fined if you don’t meet these obligations
*Equipment with high-risk operating environments
Some operating environments have the potential to seriously affect the safe operation of electrical equipment.
As per NSW WHS regulations, hostile operating environments can include areas exposed to
manufacturing and workshop environments
moisture, heat, vibration
mechanical damage
dust, or corrosive chemicals.
They may include any other environmental conditions that can lead to quicker than normal damage to the electrical equipment used, or shortened service life.
Need expert advice and testing on your sites RCD’s?
MC Controls has extensive know-how and experience in commercial and industrial plants.
We can provide RCD injection testing, a 8-point testing procedure of the operation and tripping characteristics of all RCDs on your site, RCD compliance and other electrical safety requirements.
Contact us now for more information on how we can help you.
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