When it comes to electrical safety awareness, there are no shortcuts around knowing vital precautions to take in your home, commercial, or industrial building. A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) can help avoid electrocution.
GFCI senses when a person’s body starts to receive shock and cuts off power before he or she can be injured. They are generally installed where electrical circuits accidentally can come into contact with water, such as kitchens, bath and laundry rooms. Outdoor spaces like garages are common because electric power tools might be used.
Prevention from Shock Hazards
According to an OSHA article on GFCIs, a ground-fault happens when there is a break in the path from a tool or electrical system. The electrical current then can take an alternative path to the ground through the user, resulting in serious injuries or sometimes death.
A GFCI is a fast-acting circuit breaker built to switch off power after a ground-fault within as little as 1/40th of a second. It works by comparing the amount of current going to and returning from equipment along the circuit conductors. When the amount going differs from the amount returning by approximately 5 milliamperes, the GFCI interrupts the current.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters Types
There are three types:
- Receptacle-type GFCI – The most often used and similar to a common wall outlet. Most consumers are familiar with this type.
- Circuit breaker GFCIs – Used as replacements for standard breakers and deliver protection to all receptacles on that circuit.
- Temporary or portable GFCIs – Commonly used in construction and other outdoor settings with electric tools, mowers, trimmers, and equipment.
Shockley Electric is a fully licensed and insured residential, commercial and industrial contractor in Georgia. We also offer a lifetime warranty on our labor and 3 years for parts.
Since 2005, we have been serving business owners with their electrical needs. If you would like discuss or learn more about GFCIs for your home or commercial property, contact the electricians at Shockley or call (770) 630-6858 to speak with an expert today!
