Safety switches in workplaces
Managing electrical risks in workplaces is important to ensure that you, your workers and visitors to your premises are safe.
Safety switches help to protect people from electric shocks. They do this by disconnecting electrical circuits when a leakage of current is detected. This may happen when electrical equipment or a power point is faulty, or if someone accidentally makes contact with a live cable or a live part in equipment.
You should engage a licensed electrician to make sure that safety switches are installed on all circuits in your workplace and are functioning correctly. Click on the links below to find out more.
Read the brochure
Read this brochure (PDF, 1.2 MB) which explains what safety switches are, the benefits of having them installed and how to test them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will safety switches always protect against electric shock?
No, safety switches are extra protection only. Defective or damaged wiring or equipment is still a safety risk.
There may be some situations where a safety switch will not operate because a leakage of current to earth is not detected. This may happen if wiring has degraded over time.
Therefore it is also important to make sure that electrical equipment and installations at your workplace are inspected and tested regularly. Any damaged electrical appliances, wiring, extension cords and other electrical equipment at your workplace must be repaired or replaced immediately.
It is also important that other practices are in place to manage electrical risks in your workplace, and that these procedures are followed by everyone.
For more information, read the Managing Electrical Risks in the Workplace – Code of Practice available on the WorkSafe Tasmania website (external link).
This webpage is based on information originally produced by the Electrical Safety Office, Queensland Government, and has been reproduced and published with their permission. It is a resource and reference document for general information only. For more information, read ourDisclaimer and copyright notice.
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