Residual Current Devices (RCDs) recall
Published: 12.03.2008
Schneider (NZ) Ltd has recently issued a recall for a batch of PDL branded Residual Current Devices (RCDs) models:
- PDL POWERGUARD Vertical Switched Socket – PDL Cat: 961RCD30WH and
- PDL POWERGUARD Rewireable RCD Cord-set – PDL Cat: 955RW; 953/15; 954; 955; 955/10; NT955BULK; 956. (These portable RCDs were sold as a rewireable component unit or as a completely assembled cord-sets, including a plug, cord, and socket, in various versions.)
These RCDs may not provide any protection against electric shock or fire if there is an electrical fault in electrical equipment connected to the RDCs.
The specific batch affected, that may fail to operate correctly, is marked with the batch code 0507. Information about the recall is available in the Energy Safety website.
If you have one of these RCDs with the 0507 batch code, or cannot read the batch number for whatever reason, you should stop using the products and immediately contact Schneider Electric (NZ) on the free phone number below:
Even if the RCD appears to operate correctly people need to check for the faulty batch number and call the free phone number.
These RCDs were sold throughout New Zealand between March 2007 and January 2008.
An RCD is a protective device intended to help protect persons and property, from the effects of a prolonged electric shock or property fire in the event of an electrical or insulation fault occurring in that circuit.
Generally in an RCD protected circuit, in the event of a fault, e.g. if someone touches a part at 230 volts, this would cause the RCD to disconnect the electricity supply to that circuit in a fraction of a second. The RCD is the electrical equivalent of a car safety belt or airbag, in that the RCD helps prevent a more serious injury or death to the user but serves no apparent purpose, until an accident occurs.
RCD are fitted with test buttons that should be used regularly to ensure that the RCD operates correctly. (Note: the faulty batch above may operate correctly using the test buttons, however this does not mean that the RCD is not faulty and it must therefore be replaced as soon as possible).
An RCD is especially recommended when using electrical equipment outside or in other areas where there is water such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry's.
RCDs are important electrical safety devices and the recall shouldn't detract from their ongoing use by homeowners.
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