1.

Residual Current Device (RCD) safety switch test

Introduction
RCD is a piece electrical equipment that monitors electrical circuits and switching off the
electricity when a fault is detected and a provide protection from electrocution.
RCD vary according to the nature of work
RCD test applies only to working environment where plug-in of electrical equipment are
in use.

Reason for this test

RCDs used should be tested regularly to make sure they are working effectively.
RCD testing ensures that the device will operate quickly should there be an electrical
incident. This is also known as safety switch testing. Your RCD is designed to trip, or
switch off all the power to that circuit.

Procedures
I. Plug a lamp into a power point and make sure it works and live it turned on
II. Make sure that electricity is connected to the property and the main switch is in
the on position, the lamp should be on
III. Turn off all electrical equipment
IV. Then push the RCD test button on each RCD. The RCD should operate. If not
operating it must be checked by the electrical contactor
V. Check now that the small lamp is off and check all the power points and lights do
not work by plugging the small lamp into all power points and turn on the power
points.
VI. If the small lamp turns on the electrical contactor must correct the wiring.
VII. When finished testing, turn the TCD back on and check that the lamp works when
plugged into the power points

Comments

 RCD tests should be carried out and documented every three months
 RCD testers usually have a test button that should be pressed to determine
whether the switch is functional. If the power goes off, then the tester is still
functional unless otherwise the electrician is summoned to perform necessary
repairs
2. Live polarity test
Reason for carrying out the test
To verify polarity of supply authorities system.

Procedure
An approved voltage indicator shall be used or test lamp to GS38. Using the approved
voltage indicator, one probe shall be placed on the incoming neutral, and the other on the
incoming line conductor, on the main breaker. The indicator should show it is live. One
probe shall now be placed on the CPC

3. Continuity of protective and bonding conductors test.

Reason for the test.
To check that all circuit protective conductors (green and yellow cables) are continuous
and are present at every electrical accessory on the circuit.
Also to check that the main earthing conductor and main bonding conductors are
continuous and correctly connected.

Procedure

The line conductor is connected to the circuit protective conductor of the same circuit at
the consumer unit and a measurement taken at all accessories on that circuit between line
and circuit protective conductor.

The highest measurement obtained is recorded on the test report.

Test result is R1 + R2. The line conductor and neutral conductor are then connected and
the above repeated to obtain R1 + Rn