RCD Testing

Testing of RCDs in rental properties forms part of the Electrical Safety Check now required for rented premises in Victoria.  The Victorian Tenancies Regulation introduced these new requirements in 2021 and has made the installation of RCDs mandatory in rental properties from March 29, 2023. 

The new regulations have been implemented to ensure that electrical safety inspections are carried out regularly and that all electrical installations and appliances are compliant.   These rules cover the connection of power outlets and lighting circuits in the rented premises.  They are to be;

– Connected to a switchboard-type circuit breaker that complies with AS/NZS 3000

AND

– A switchboard-type residual current device that complies with AS/NZS 3190, AS/NZS 610081 and AS/NZS 610091.   

If you are considering buying an investment property or you are a Landlord, Real Estate Agent, or Property Manager, you can read more about the mandatory Electrical Safety Checks and Electrical Safety Reports for rental properties and your obligations here. 

To read more about these new Residential Tenancy Regulation rules, refer to Energy Safe Victoria’s website here and the Victorian Residential Tenancies Regulations 2021 here.

Businesses run best when staff are productive, equipment is in good working order, and insurance claims are minimal.  Employers have a duty to provide and maintain a safe workplace and, where practical, minimize or eliminate risk to health.  Accordingly, part of this process involves identifying electrical hazards, assessing their risk, and implementing controls and procedures to minimize them.  Consequently, as a Business Owner or Manager, understanding your obligations to keep your workplace safe and compliant is paramount. 

RCD installation and testing form part of the ongoing commitment to workplace safety and compliance. RCD testing is part of an ongoing preventative maintenance plan which often includes emergency lighting audits, thermal imaging, and test and tag.  To learn more about our preventative maintenance services, click here. 

Also, to learn more about electrical risks in the workplace, please refer to WorkSafe Victoria here.

RCD testing is the process of evaluating the functionality and performance of residual current devices.  RCDs can become faulty from exposure to dust, grit, lack of use, or physical damage over time.  The internal components can stick or fail to move, slowing down the tripping response or failing to trip at all.  RCDs can be wired incorrectly or installed upside down, which causes them to be ineffective.  Several tests are available to measure the integrity and functionality of an RCD.

RCD testing is paramount to keeping electrical safety. By testing your RCD regularly, you can find potential failures and malfunctions before they lead to accidents and damage to your electrical equipment. RCDs are the primary safety measure installed to protect people and property from electrocution, electrical fire, and other electrical hazards. Certainly, a properly functioning RCD can save lives.

There are many different types of RCDs, each serving a specific purpose. Common types include:

• Fixed RCDs: They tightly integrate into electrical installations and protect specific circuits or groups of circuits.
• Portable RCDs: Also known as plug-in RCDs, these devices protect appliances and extension cords by simply plugging them into a socket.
• Socket Outlet RCDs: These RCDs attach to a socket outlet and supply local protection for equipment connected to that particular socket.
• Time-Delay RCDs: These RCDs have a time-delay feature that compensates for temporary current imbalances, such as those resulting from appliance activation, without tripping the circuit.

Most RCDs in Australia are 30 mA type. This means that they can trip as low as 15 mA and must trip at 30 mA. Interestingly, they differ from other protection devices that usually trip when the value surpasses the set point.

RCD testing includes various steps to ensure that the device functions properly. Testing procedures may include:

• Visual Inspection: This includes inspecting the RCD for visible signs of damage, wear, or improper installation.
• Push-Button Test: Pressing the RCD’s test button trips and powers down the RCD, simulating a fault scenario.
• Ramp Test: This test determines the trip sensitivity of the RCD by stepping the residual current.
• Trip Time Test: This involves measuring the time it takes for the RCD to trip when a fault current is applied.
• Earth Leakage Test: Finally, this test checks the ability of the RCD to detect and cut power in the event of an earth leakage.

• Visual Inspection: First, visually inspect the RCD for signs of physical damage, loose connections, or overheating. Make sure the RCD is properly installed and free of obstructions.
• Push-Button Test: Next, press the test button on the RCD to see if it trips and turns off. If it does not trip, or shows unusual behaviour, this warrants further investigation.
• Ramp Test: A special device is used to perform the ramp test, gradually increasing the fault current and seeing the response of the RCD. This test helps decide the sensitivity and accuracy of the device.
• Trip Time Test: A special RCD tester measures the time it takes for the RCD to trip when a fault current is applied. Compare the results to the specified trip time limits.
• Earth Leakage Test: Finally, conduct an earth leakage test to verify that the RCD effectively detects and cuts power in the presence of earth leakage.

The frequency of RCD testing depends on many factors, including RCD type, operating environment, and applicable regulations. In general, it is recommended that the RCD test be performed at least every 12 months, per AS/NZS 3760. However, certain environments with high electrical risks, such as construction sites, may require more frequent testing.  For more information on the frequency of RCD testing, please contact the team at Hit the Switch here.