What is RCD Test?
What is an RCD?
You might have heard of a 'Safety Switch'. An RCD is the technical name for a safety switch, It stands for 'Residual Current Device'. They are there to protect you and me from possible harm from electrical circuits. If there is danger present in an electrical circuit, the RCD turns the electricity off so fast it doesn't have time to electrocute anyone. You will find fixed RCDs in your switchboard. (Hopefully - if not you ought to consider upgrading your switchboard). There are also portable RCDs available, frequently used in construction sites, damp areas, outdoor areas, and anywhere where added protection with electrical equipment is required.
What is RCD Testing?
To test your RCDs are keeping you safe, a qualified technician tests just how quickly they are breaking or 'tripping' electrical circuits. We need to know they will operate fast enough in case of an electrical incident.
What do you need for RCD Testing?
In order to carry out RCD testing you need:
- An RCD tester, which is the equipment required to carry out RCD testing.
- An A Grade electrician. Only qualified electricians can perform RCD testing due to the danger of working with live electricity.
Wait a minute, isn't there an RCD test I can do myself?
Yes! You can perform a push button test yourself. But this is as well as, not instead of, 'operating time' RCD testing carried out by a qualified electrician.
What are RCD testing requirements Victoria?
| Frequency | Site/Business |
|---|---|
| Every 12 Months | Factories, workshops, places of work or repair, manufacturing, assembly, maintenance or fabrication. |
| Every 2 Years | Residential - including houses, hotels, boarding houses, etc |
Call DJD Electrics on 03 8819 1596 to have your equipment tested and tagged.