Persons here in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are being encouraged to seriously consider installing Residual current devices (RCDs) in their homes.
RCDs also known as residual current circuit breakers (RCCBs) or simply safety switches are designed specifically to prevent electrocution, and work in addition to fuses and circuit-breakers by monitoring circuits for signs current is leaking out.
Over the years, the St. Vincent Electricity Services Limited (VINLEC) has been pushing for the installation and usage of RCDs.
A reminder in this regard was issued earlier this year as part of VINLEC’s Environmental Health and Safety Awareness month in May, and Tamara Job-Sprott, VINLEC’s Communications Officer in a recent interview with WEFM News reiterated the importance of having RCDs installed in homes here.
According to Mrs. Job-Sprott having a residual current device (RCD), or safety switch, installed within homes is very important as it can reduce the risk of electrocution and can also provide some protection against electrical fires.
Mrs. Job-Sprott said RCDs are available at local hardware stores and explained that these devices are to be installed by a certified electrician.
She noted that residual current devices are being used widely across the Caribbean and in other parts of the world.
