How many safety switches are needed in a house?

Safety switches, also known as RCDs, (Residual Current Devices) are crucial life saving devices fitted into the switchboard of your home. They are designed to prevent you from getting a fatal electric shock if you touch something live.

It is important that you not only have a safety switch fitted but that you make sure it is tested at least every six months. This will ensure it is working properly, protecting you and your family in case of an emergency.

Safety switches are designed to automatically switch off the electricity to your home if leakage of the current is detected, this will minimise the chance of electrical-related fires, electric shock or in extreme cases, death.

Is there a legal requirement to have safety switches in QLD homes?

Absolutely, safety switches have been compulsory in Queensland since 1992.

Queensland homes built after 2000 must have safety switches on all powerpoints and lighting circuits. All property owners are responsible for having at least one safety switch fitted by a licensed electrician in their home.

In Queensland, landlords have the responsibility to have at least one safety switch fitted to the power point circuit in all rental properties that are tenanted. Property agents and landlords must be aware that testing the safety switch is the only way to confirm whether it is working at the start of a tenancy. Should a landlord fail to comply with this requirement they may be fined up to $1,500.

Important note - New safety switches must be installed by a licensed electrician.

How many safety switches do I need?

According to the Queensland Government electrical safety website, the best practice is to have safety switches installed on all circuits in your home, including power points, lights, air conditioners, oven, hot water, and pool equipment circuits, even if they are on a separate tariff.

This will ensure you are covered 100% if you encounter an electrical problem, have a fault in your house wiring, or one of your electrical appliances is faulty.

All PurposeTrade Solutions electricians have years of experience installing, testing and repairing safety switches throughout Brisbane, Logan, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast regions.

Reference: https://www.electricalsafety.qld.gov.au/frequently-asked-questions