RCDs (residual current devices), or safety switches as they are often called, are important electrical safety devices that can save lives; but only if they are working and react fast enough.
Unfortunately many workplaces overlook including regular testing of the RCDs in their test and tag program.
There are two ways to test and
RCDRCD is an acronym for Residual Current Device. They are also known as safety switches. RCDs are designed to protect people from electric shock. ;
- Push Button Test
This is a recommended test to perform before using a portable RCDRCD is an acronym for Residual Current Device. They are also known as safety switches. RCDs are designed to protect people from electric shock. or appliances, or when incorporated into appliances such as some leads and powerboards etc. The test method involves quickly pressing the RESET button and noting if the RCDRCD is an acronym for Residual Current Device. They are also known as safety switches. RCDs are designed to protect people from electric shock. trips “without undue delay“. It is not a particularly accurate test however it does provide some indication the RCDRCD is an acronym for Residual Current Device. They are also known as safety switches. RCDs are designed to protect people from electric shock. is working.
- Trip timeThe trip time is the measurement of the time taken for a Residual Current Device (RCD) to trip (break the circuit). This should occur when a value greater than the rated tripping current of the RCD is detected. The measurement is recorded in milli-seconds. We provide RCD or trip time testing in Melbourne for any business or workplace. test
This is a more accurate method that requires the use of test equipment that can simulate a fault and measure the trip timeThe trip time is the measurement of the time taken for a Residual Current Device (RCD) to trip (break the circuit). This should occur when a value greater than the rated tripping current of the RCD is detected. The measurement is recorded in milli-seconds. We provide RCD or trip time testing in Melbourne for any business or workplace. to within 1 mSmilliSecond = 1/1,000 of a second The symbol is mS ( 1/1,000th of a second).
Over time most RCDs slow down or stop functioning due to normal wear and tear. Without regular testing you would never know if this was the situation. As a result, you, your business and your people would be exposed to the consequenses of electric shock incidents. The best way to stay protected is to include regular
trip timeThe trip time is the measurement of the time taken for a Residual Current Device (RCD) to trip (break the circuit). This should occur when a value greater than the rated tripping current of the RCD is detected. The measurement is recorded in milli-seconds. We provide RCD or trip time testing in Melbourne for any business or workplace. testing into your test and tag program.
Recommended testing intervals can range from monthly on construction sites to 2 years in office and administration centres. Different protocols apply for RCDs used in medical equipment and facilities.