RCD and Safety Switch Testing

RCDs (residual current devices), also known as safety switches play an important part in electrical safety within the workplace.

Is RCD testing mandatory for workplaces in WA?

Yes, the Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2022 requires routine testing of RCDs. Penalties for individuals and for a body corporates may apply if RCD testing isn’t completed at the required intervals and correct records kept.

RCD's in the workplace are generally located in the switchboard and must be periodically tested to Australian Standards to ensure compliance with the WHS Regulations.

Work Health and Safety (General) Regulations 2022 - Division 6 — Residual current devices

“165. Testing of residual current devices

(1) A person with management or control of a workplace must take all reasonable steps to ensure that residual current devices used at the workplace are tested regularly by a competent person to ensure that the devices are operating effectively.
Penalty for this subregulation:
(a) for an individual, a fine of $4 200;
(b) for a body corporate, a fine of $21 000.

(2) The person must keep a record of all testing of a residual current device (other than any testing conducted daily) until the earlier of the following occurs —
(a) the device is next tested;
(b) the device is permanently removed from use.

Penalty for this subregulation:
(a) for an individual, a fine of $1 450;
(b) for a body corporate, a fine of $7 000.”

”164. Use of socket outlets in hostile operating environment

(1) This regulation applies in the following circumstances —
(a) electrical equipment is used in an environment in which the normal use of electrical equipment exposes the equipment to operating conditions that are likely to result in damage to the equipment or a reduction in its expected life span, including conditions that involve exposure to moisture, heat, vibration, mechanical damage, corrosive chemicals or dust;
(b) electrical equipment is moved between different locations in circumstances where damage to the equipment or to a flexible electricity supply cord is reasonably likely;
(c) electrical equipment is frequently moved during its normal use;
(d) electrical equipment forms part of, or is used in connection with, an amusement device.

(2) In a circumstance set out in subregulation (1), a person conducting a business or undertaking at a workplace must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that any electrical risk associated with the supply of electricity to the electrical equipment through a socket outlet is minimised by the use of an appropriate residual current device.”

Here at ECO Test and Tag we can help you meet Australian Standards. RCD testing carried out in accordance to Australian standards outlined in AS/NZS 3760, by a competent, trained person. The RCD testing process involves inspecting, conducting push button tests, electrically testing and then labelling and logging the results of the RCD test.

RCD testing to the Australian standards helps to ensure electrical safety in the workplace and can dramatically reduce the risks of electrocution and fires. ECO Test and Tag can carry out the testing process from start to finish and take all the hassle out for you. We provide you with detailed electronic reports and can provide courtesy email and phone reminders when RCDs approach their re-test date.

Click here if you would like to purchase your own copy of the current Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760 In-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment and RCD's. Alternatively, get in touch with any queries you have.