What Is a Safety Switch?
A safety switch (Residual Current Device — RCD) continuously monitors electricity flow and disconnects a circuit within milliseconds when it detects current leaking to earth — the tell-tale sign of an electric shock.
What’s the Difference? Circuit-Breakers vs Surge Devices vs Safety Switches
| Device | Main Job | Trips on Over-current? | Trips on Earth Leakage? | Shields from Voltage Spikes? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit-breaker (MCB) | Protects wiring from overloads & short-circuits | Yes | No | No |
| Surge protective device (SPD) | Diverts lightning & network spikes | No | No | Yes |
| Safety switch (RCD/RCBO) | Protects people from electric shock (RCBO also includes breaker) | Yes (RCBO) | Yes | Limited |
Electrical Fire Statistics in Queensland
| Category | Number of Incidents | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| House fires in QLD (2024) | 1,600+ | Source: Queensland Fire Department |
| House-fire claims caused by electrical issues | 27% | Source: RACQ Insurance Claims Data |
| Lithium-ion battery fires (Jan–Sep 2023) | 93 | 47 residential, 8 non-residential, 38 other fires |
Why Safety Switches Matter on Every Circuit
- Modern loads: Today’s appliances, solar installations, EV chargers and pools push older boards to their limits.
- Regulatory expectations: Queensland standards and rental compliance emphasise comprehensive safety switch installation across final sub-circuits.
- Fire prevention: Ageing wiring and DIY additions are common fire risks — upgrading reduces danger to people and property.
Planning Your Switchboard Upgrade in Brisbane
- Full-board RCBO retrofit: Replace each breaker with a combined RCBO so every circuit — power, lights, air-con, pool, oven, EV — gets shock and overload protection.
- Surge add-on: Fit a Type 2 SPD at the mains to shield sensitive electronics from storms and network spikes.
- Label & test: Clear labelling and quarterly RCD test-button checks keep your home safer and compliant. Have you considered adding a smoke alarm installation for early-warning protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need safety switches if I already have circuit-breakers?
Yes. Circuit-breakers protect wiring from overloads and short-circuits. Safety switches (RCDs) detect shock current and disconnect fast to protect people. They do different jobs, and homes benefit from both.
What’s involved in a full switchboard upgrade?
We replace ageing breakers with RCBOs (breaker + RCD), add surge protection, tidy and label wiring, and test every circuit. Most homes are completed the same day with minimal downtime.
How often should I test my safety switches?
Press the “TEST” button every three months. Power on that circuit should drop immediately. Reset to restore power. If it doesn’t trip or won’t reset, switch off the main and contact a licensed electrician.