Safety switch: do you have one, and does it work?

07 September 2026
Media Releases

Electrical Safety Week runs from 7 to 11 September, with Territorians encouraged to check their switchboard and test their safety switch.

During the week, we’re asking Territorians to check their switchboard to see if they have a safety switch installed. If they do, test it to make sure it works.

What is a safety switch?

A safety switch is an electrical device which may be installed in your switchboard that helps protect you and your loved ones from electric shock.

It monitors the flow of electricity in your home and switches the power off quickly if it detects electricity going somewhere it shouldn’t, such as through a person.

A safety switch can help save a life, but it needs to be working properly. That’s why it’s important to test it regularly.

How do I know if I have a safety switch?

A safety switch will have a button marked with the letter T or the word TEST. It may look similar the other switches in your switchboard.

The TEST button is used to check whether the safety switch is working.

Download the guide to learn how to test your safety switch.

If you don’t have a safety switch, contact a licensed electrical contractor to find out about having one installed.

Talk to an expert

NT WorkSafe staff, including Electrical Safety Inspectors, will have interactive displays demonstrating a safety switch in action at various locations during Electrical Safety Week.

Come along, see a safety switch in action and talk to our team about how you can make your home safer from electrical hazards.

Monday 7 September 10.00am to 2.00pm

  • Casuarina Square
  • Coolalinga Central
  • Gateway Shopping Centre Darwin
  • Yeperenye Shopping Centre

Tuesday 8 September 10.00am to 2.00pm

  • Casuarina Square
  • Coolalinga Central
  • Gateway Shopping Centre Darwin
  • Yeperenye Shopping Centre

Wednesday 9 September 10.00am to 2.00pm

  • Casuarina Square
  • Gateway Shopping Centre Darwin
  • Mitchell Centre
  • Yeperenye Shopping Centre

Thursday 10 September 10.00am to 2.00pm

  • Casuarina Square
  • Gateway Shopping Centre Darwin
  • Smith Street Mall
  • Yeperenye Shopping Centre

Friday 11 September 10.00am to 2.00pm

  • Casuarina Square
  • Gateway Shopping Centre Darwin
  • Mitchell Centre
  • Yeperenye Shopping Centre
Contact:
Communications Unit
Phone:
0401 114 569
Email:
ntworksafe@nt.gov.au
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