RCD safety switch testing in Hobart
We test the safety switches in your switchboard and your portable RCDs, to check they cut the power quickly when something goes wrong.
- Switchboard and portable RCDs
- Push-button and trip-time testing
- Results recorded for your records
- Easy to add to a test and tag visit
Book on: 0470 682 815
Why safety switches need testing
An RCD (residual current device), usually called a safety switch, watches the current flowing through a circuit. If some of that current leaks away, for example through a person, it cuts the power in a fraction of a second.
RCDs can wear out or stick over time, and you can’t tell by looking at one. Testing is the only way to know a safety switch will still trip when it needs to.
What we check
Push-button test
Checking each RCD trips when its test button is pressed.
Trip-time test
Measuring how fast each RCD cuts the power, using an RCD tester.
Switchboard RCDs
The fixed safety switches protecting the circuits in your board.
Portable RCDs
Plug-in RCDs and RCD-protected power boards used on site.
Recorded results
Results for each RCD are recorded for your records.
Faults flagged
Any RCD that fails is pointed out so it can be dealt with.
Who it’s for
- Workplaces and offices
- Builders and trades using portable RCDs
- Landlords and property managers
- Homes with safety switches in the board
Pricing
This service is quoted per job. Tell us roughly how many safety switches and portable RCDs you have and where the property is, and we’ll give you a price before we book anything in.
Booking test and tag as well? Mention your RCDs and we can do them on the same visit.
How booking works
Four steps from first call to finished job.
Tell us what needs testing
Call or email with the service you need and a rough idea of how many items, alarms or lights are involved.
Agree on a price and a time
We’ll confirm the price and arrange a time that suits you.
Testing is carried out
Each item is checked as part of the service you’ve booked.
Go over the results
We’ll let you know what passed and point out anything that needs attention.
Common questions
What is the difference between an RCD and a circuit breaker?
A circuit breaker protects the wiring from overloads and short circuits. An RCD protects people, by cutting the power when it detects current leaking to earth.
How often should RCDs be tested?
Pressing the test button is quick and worth doing regularly. Trip-time testing with an instrument is done at longer intervals, which AS/NZS 3760 sets based on where the RCD is used. We’ll recommend a schedule for your site.
What happens if a safety switch fails?
We’ll let you know straight away. Replacing a fixed safety switch in your switchboard is a job for a licensed electrician.
Can you test portable RCDs on a building site?
Yes. Portable RCDs and RCD-protected power boards can be tested along with your other equipment.
Need something tested? Let’s get it booked in.
Tell us what needs checking and where, and we’ll come back to you with a quote.