Test your safety switch, protect your family and yourself!

Every year, fire brigades rush to the scene of over 300 domestic electrical fires. Too often, these blazes erupt from ageing wiring unable to handle today’s electrical demands. The danger goes beyond flames; encountering degraded wiring can have fatal consequences.

Taking a moment to test the safety switch on your switchboard isn’t just a precaution — it protects you from faulty wiring and is a simple step that could save lives.

The insulation around household wiring wears down over time, leaving wires vulnerable to exposure. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue — it’s a potential fire hazard waiting to happen. Exposed wires can also put you at risk of dangerous electric shocks from everyday switches and appliances in your home.

Ensuring electrical safety in your home

Watch for these warning signs that your wiring might be compromised:

Outdated switchboards, especially those lacking a safety switch
Aging power switches or sockets, especially if they’re damaged
Lights that flicker unexpectedly
Sparks coming from switchboards, switches, or power outlets

If your home is more than 30 years old, it’s worth considering what might be lurking behind your walls. Protect your home and family by scheduling a thorough inspection of your wiring with a qualified electrician.

How can you test your safety switch?

Making sure your home has a safety switch on the switchboard is crucial. It acts as an early warning system for any issues with your household wiring. Understanding its function, knowing how to test it regularly, and being prepared to address any wiring concerns are essential for your safety. Check out this video for clear, step-by-step instructions.

The safety switch is your home’s vigilant protector, constantly monitoring the electrical current in circuits to swiftly detect any potential hazards that could endanger you. When it detects trouble, it acts immediately, cutting off power within milliseconds. But remember, it can only do its job if it’s functioning correctly and is connected to the affected circuit.

Spotting a safety switch on your switchboard is easy — it’s typically labeled as such, though its look may vary slightly. Here’s how to ensure it’s always ready to protect you:

Alert everyone at home that you’re about to test the safety switch.
Press the test button on each safety switch; you’ll hear a distinctive clunk as it trips and cuts the power.
Inside, verify that lights, appliances, and switches on the tested circuit have lost power.
Once confirmed, reset your safety switches by returning them to the ‘on’ position.

If any lights or appliances remain powered, your safety switch may have malfunctioned. Don’t wait — contact a licensed electrician immediately for a thorough investigation.

If you’re unsure whether a safety switch is installed in your home, reach out to a registered electrical contractor. You can find one through local newspapers or an online search.

Remember: Not all electricians are equal. Look for an A-grade electrician—they have the qualifications and expertise needed to inspect and install household wiring safely and effectively.

All our electricians are qualified A-grade electricians and can help you with making sure your safety switch is working and your wiring is safe. Just give us a call on 03 9578 4999 regarding a thorough inspection if you need one. We’re happy to help!