An electrical fault is when an appliance, electrical fitting or cable doesn’t work and becomes a safety issue.
The three main types of faults are short circuits, overloads and ground faults.
Short circuits produce large amounts of heat which is a fire risk.
Overloads produce heat which can eventually cause a fire.
Ground faults (earth leakage) result in giving people electric shocks.
These electrical faults have the potential to cause severe personal and property damage. This is why ASNZS:3000:2007 and Electrical Safety Regulations 2010 exist to ensure that wiring installations are done competently and to a specific standard.
The main devices to protect against short circuits and overloads are MCBs and HRCs. Overloads are also avoided by using appropriate sized cables rated for the appliance current load. RCDs are used to protect against ground faults.
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