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Residual current devices (also known as safety switches) require regular testing to ensure safety and compliance.
At Thermal Scanners, we specialise in providing professional and compliant RCD trip time testing services across Australia. Our services align with the latest Australian Standards (AS/NZS 3760:2022), offering comprehensive solutions for a variety of environments, including commercial and industrial properties.
A residual current device (RCD) protects against electrocution and fires by monitoring for electrical current imbalances. When an imbalance is detected, the device rapidly disconnects the power. These imbalances can occur for a number of reasons such as:
If the RCD is not functioning correctly, faults could escalate, causing severe electrical shocks, damage to equipment, or fire risks. Regular testing ensures the device operates quickly in case of an electrical incident.
The first type of test is the 'push-button' test, which can be carried out by a reasonably competent operator. The second test type is the 'trip time' test, which must be performed by a licensed electrician using precision instruments that record the time taken for the RCD to activate in milliseconds.
Get in Touch to arrange a test of your RCD safety switches.
According to Australian Standards, the required frequency for RCD testing varies depending on the site:
Type of environment and/or equipment | Equipment including | Interval between inspection and tests | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Class 1 equipment, cord sets, cord extension sets and EPODS | Residual current devices | Push-button test - by user | Operating time and push-button test | |||
1. Factories, workshops, places of manufacture, assembly, maintenance or fabrication | 6 mths | Daily, or before every use, whichever is the longer | 6 mths | 6 mths | 12 mths | 12 mths |
2. Environment where the equipment or supply flexible cord is subject to flexing in normal use OR is open to abuse OR is in a hostile environment | 12 mths | 6 mths | 6 mths | 6 mths | 12 mths | 12 mths |
3. Environment where the equipment or supply flexible cord is NOT subject to flexing in normal use and is NOT open to abuse and is NOT in a hostile environment | 5 yrs | 3 mths | 6 mths | 6 mths | 2 yrs | 2 yrs |
4. Residential type areas of: hotels, residential institutions, motels, boarding houses, halls, hostels accommodation houses, and the like | 2 yrs | 6 mths | 6 mths | 6 mths | 2 yrs | 2 yrs |
5. Equipment used for commercial cleaning | 6 mths | Daily, or before every use, whichever is the longer | N/A | 6 mths | N/A | N/A |
6. Hire equipment: Inspection Test and Tag | Prior to hire | Including push-button test by hirer | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
7. Repaired and service equipment | 3 mths | N/A | N/A | 3 mths | 12 mths | 12 mths |
8. Second-hand equipment | For second-hand equipment AS/NZS 5761 applies (refer to clause 2.2(c)) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
RCD trip time testing involves measuring the response time of residual current devices to detect faults and disconnect the power. At Thermal Scanners, our qualified technicians conduct testing directly at the electrical board, rather than at individual power points, ensuring that both power and lighting circuits are tested for a thorough inspection.
We test the RCD on both the positive and negative sides of the wave, identifying the worst-case trip time. This provides a more comprehensive assessment of the device's performance, ensuring the highest level of safety.
Upon completing the testing, we provide a detailed compliance report documenting the results for all breakers on-site. This report helps maintain records for safety audits and regulatory compliance.
For clients in Queensland, if a property is RCD-protected and has undergone testing, it exempts the need for Test & Tag requirements, simplifying compliance processes and reducing maintenance costs.
Choose Thermal Scanners for your RCD testing needs to ensure your premises remain safe, compliant, and up to date with the latest standards.
Get in Touch to arrange a test of your safety switches.
Thermal Scanners will assist in understanding the requirements of legislated RCD testing. As part of our service, we provide a detailed report which includes:
Download a sample report.
Protect your assets today! If you’re looking for the following:
Fast and effective way to prevent costly electrical repairs
Ensure the safety of your facilities, employees and the general public
Ensure the highest level of performance for all electrical systems
Reduce the risk of breakdowns, critical faults and downtime
Call us at Thermal Scanners today to book your thermal inspection or for a free no-obligation quote - 1300 309 562
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