Red Seal Industrial Electrician Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a safety switch in electrical installations?

1. To improve the energy efficiency of circuits

2. To prevent accidental electrical shock

3. To regulate voltage fluctuations in the circuit

4. To provide a backup power supply

The correct answer is: To prevent accidental electrical shock

The purpose of a safety switch, often referred to as a residual current device (RCD) or ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), is primarily to protect individuals from electric shock by detecting imbalances in electrical current. When a fault occurs, such as when current is leaking through a person to the ground due to poor insulation or accidental contact with live parts, the safety switch will quickly interrupt the circuit, cutting off the electrical supply. This rapid response helps to reduce the risk of serious injury or fatality from electrical shocks. While other devices may play roles in energy efficiency, voltage regulation, or backup power supply, these functions are not the primary purpose of safety switches. The standout feature of safety switches is their role in ensuring personal safety by minimizing the risk of electric shock, thus making them a critical component in electrical installations for both residential and industrial applications.