Safety switches, often referred to by some other names including Residual Current Device (RCD) protect you and your family from electric shock. They can help save a life, but only of they are working. The only time most people look at their safety switch is when a faulty appliance has caused it to trip or following some heavy rain. In most cases, it is simply reset and forgotten about.

Most homes have had a safety switch installed in the switchboard from the original electrical installation. These devices sit in the heat and dust of the switchboard and the mechanisms can become seized. Regular testing not only checks the internal components move freely but also give you peace of mind that they are going to operate if a potentially dangerous situation occurs.

As a bare minimum the power sockets should be protected and lighting maybe protected. It is a requirement now that all circuits in a home are protected by a safety switch. It will depend on the age of the installation and if any recent work has been undertaken as to how many circuits are currently covered.

How do they work? - they monitor the flow of electricity through the electrical circuit. If there is a imbalance between the outgoing current and the returning current (only a small amount of less than 30mA) the device switches off the supply within hundredths of a second before harm is caused.

What do they look like? - your switchboard can contain a variety of different switches and/or fuse holders depending of the age of the installation. Safety switches can be identified by a TEST button.

How to test? - firstly, turn off any computers, televisions and other sensitive electric equipment. It’s likely the home internet will go off too so best to warn anyone on mobile devices too! Proceed to the switchboard and press the TEST button on the safety switch(es) you may have one or several, you need to perform the test on each one. A short, brief press should cause the switch toggle to switch to the OFF (O) position. This should happen quickly and without hesitation. Once the switches are off it is advised to go around you home to test that all the power (and lights if installed to them) are off. If you find power to a socket or light that you believe should be protected then contact a licensed electrical contractor, such as ELEXCEL to check the circuit. Once you are satisfied with the test completed you can then reset the switch by flicking up the switch to the ON position (I). Again, if the switch fails to hold on you should call on an electrician.

Remember to retest - perform the test again every 3 months, so set yourself a reminder or perform it once your quarterly electricity bill arrives.

This video is one of many that is a great example of following the testing process.