1. RCDs and Electric Shock:
An RCD is a safety device that reduces the risk of electric shock. RCDs can fail! This is why it is important to regularly test them every three months. It’s a simple test anyone can do at home. Simply press the test button (as above). If the RCD trips quickly and you can switch it back on, then it is working. For more information, please view this video. In the event of electric shock it is important to get an ECG as soon as possible at your closest emergency clinic. An electric shock can cause cardiac arrest up to 48 hours afterwards.
2. Smoke alarms and fires in the house:
We all know what a smoke alarm is, but how does it work? There are 2 types of smoke alarms in WA, ionisation and photoelectric. Photoelectric smoke alarms are the recommended choice for households because they are more effective at detecting smouldering fires. A photoelectric smoke alarm works by aiming a light source into a chamber and if any particles are present the light will reflect into a sensor. A smoke alarm can be simply tested by holding the test button in for up to 5 seconds, and it should sound. If the other smoke alarms also sound, they’re interconnected. The backup batteries must be tested regularly, because if the mains power fails during an electrical fire, the battery is what keeps the alarm working. Testing the battery is as simple as turning the power off at the switchboard and checking that a light flashes at least twice within 60 seconds.
3. Electrical safety and switchboards:
Old switchboards pose a fire risk due to poor connections resulting from brittle wires and ingress. The older style fuse holders pose an electric shock hazard. If a switchboard is made from asbestos it must not be altered or modified in any way that would disturb the asbestos. Quite often this results in the replacement of the switchboard. All new switchboards installed since 2019 must have RCD protection on every final subcircuit. If a final subcircuit is installed or altered in any way, then an RCD must be installed in accordance with the wiring rules. It is always recommended that old switchboards be replaced with new ones to reduce the risk of electric shock in the household.
4. Electric Shocks from Plumbing & Taps:
If you receive an electric shock from your tapware or pipework, the first thing you should do is go to your closest emergency clinic and get an ECG. Then contact Western Power and notify them of the incident. The electric shock could be the result of a few different things: bad neutral connections, induced voltages from heavy loads or a faulty earth connection. Once Western Power has completed an inspection, they will either advise you to get an electrician to fix the issue on the property side, or fix the issue on their side.
5. Signs of Electrical Arcing:
Any arcing can result in an electrical fire. If it is safe to do so, isolate the power at the switchboard or meter box and call an electrician to investigate. If it is a switch or power point, make sure the switch is turned off or the load is disconnected. To do this safely, isolate the circuit or the whole house at the switchboard or meter box to prevent burns, electric shock or fire.
6. Exposed Live Parts:
An electrical system must be designed in such a way that there are no accessible exposed live parts. If any live parts of an electrical system become exposed (open cores, faulty enclosures, damaged insulation, etc.), it is important to stay clear, create a barrier between you and the exposed part and notify an electrician to rectify the issue.
Need help making your home safer?
Daly & Co Electrical can help with switchboard upgrades, RCD testing and installation, hardwired smoke alarms and general electrical repairs across Armadale, Kelmscott, Roleystone and Perth’s south-east. Call David on 0404 241 051 or request a free quote.
