RCD Protection for non-residential installations direct-connected equipment

After an analysis of reported shocks over the past five years, Building and Energy recently announced changes for RCDs on directly connected equipment in non-residential installations.

Building and Energy recommend that RCDs should be fitted to all final sub-circuits of fixed wired equipment up to and including 32A, where employees and visitors can come into contact with this electrical equipment.

If an electrician decides against installing an RCD, they will need to provide a reason and attach a Risk Assessment Statement to their Notice of Completion. 

See below for the full announcement from Building and Energy.

Click here to view AS/NZS 3000:2018, Clause 2.6.3.2.3.3(d) on our TKB.

Are you looking for a more convenient and inexpensive way to complete Risk Assessments? The NECA Safe Digital App allows you and your workers to complete Risk Assessments via your phone or tablet, then access every submission in PDF form so that they can be easily attached to your Notice of Completion, when required. Find out more here >

Non-residential installations direct-connected equipment - RCD Protection

Building and Energy has analysed the records of reported shocks from direct-connected equipment during the past five years in Western Australia. There have been close to 300 incidents – far too many. Of these, water heaters accounted for one third.

To ensure fundamental electrical safety, RCDs should be fitted in the relevant switchboard to all final sub-circuits supplying direct-wired equipment in non-residential installations that employees or visitors can or must touch in the course of their visit or work.

If an electrical contractor decides not to install RCDs in such cases, they need to provide documented reasons for the decision, including the risk assessment carried out. AS/NZS 3000: 2018, Clause 2.6.3.2.3.3(d) mentions exceptions which contractors may cite where relevant.

Inspectors would expect to see separations, insulation levels, mechanical protection and correct earthing complying with all relevant standards in such cases. The document should be attached to the Notice of Completion for the installing work.

Contractors also may wish to draw their client’s attention to the occupational health and safety benefits and visitor protection arising from RCDs.

Electrical contractors are urged to fit RCDs for all final sub-circuits up to 32A in all non-residential installations where employees and visitors can come into contact with direct-wired electrical equipment.

Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety