When it comes to electricity, safety is our utmost concern. One of the ways we protect you and your home is through correct earth leakage. But what is earth leakage, and why is it important? Let’s take a look at how we use the ground beneath our feet to protect against short-circuits.

What on Earth?

When a structure is built, one of the important steps taken by electricians is called the earthing system. An earthing wire is used to ground the electrical system, allowing for safe dissipation of electrical energy into the ground in the event of a short circuit due to electricity reaching earth via an unintended path. This could be via the metal framework of a house, or the outside of electrical conduit due to a break in the insulation.

When a short circuit occurs, the Earth-leakage circuit breaker in your DB board detects any stray voltage and shuts the power off. Most people refer to this event as the DB board tripping. This abrupt loss of power prevents the stray voltage from endangering or damaging any people, animals or equipment.

Earth-leakage circuit breakers should be tested regularly to make sure that they will activate if there is any leakage. A small button on the breaker will test if the breaker will trip the power if it detects a leakage, but a more thorough test requires a device that checks how long it takes to break the circuit, and how much leakage it takes to trip the breaker. 

Sensitive systems

In a situation where people will come into direct contact with electrical equipment, such as a lab, school, workshop or the home, then earth leakage detection has to be really sensitive. A 30mA sensitivity is used in these situations, as any current beyond 30mA can be lethal. 

In more industrial settings where there is less chance of direct contact with equipment, a different sensitivity is used to protect the electrical equipment from damage.

Here at Sunburst, one of the many services we offer is earth leakage testing. Correct insulation and grounding of your electrical systems will protect your devices from damage, magnetic field interference as well as making sure they are safe to operate. Consider having your electrical systems inspected to ensure the safety of your family or employees and prevent possible electric shocks or electrocution.

Contact us today for Expert Electrical Service.