Safe use of powerboards

Australian Standards require that all power boards incorporate minimum safety requirements, including a circuit breaker to prevent overloading if fitted with three or more outlets.

Some older models of powerboards probably don't have a circuit breaker and you should look at replacing these units with a more recent model.

Recommendations

Don't

• cascade or piggy-back power boards
• use double adaptors in conjunction with a power board
• use power boards outdoors or in dusty or polluted environments, such as workshops and building sites
• use power boards in locations accessible by infants, children or pets
• use power boards in wet areas or areas where there is likely to be water present (eg beneath aquariums, in a kitchen or bathroom, etc)
• continue to use a power board if it has been subjected to moisture or water, or has in any way been damaged.
• regular checks to ensure that power boards are showing no obvious signs of damage and that socket contacts firmly grip the plug when inserted (ie there is no sloppiness when inserting the plug or when it is inserted)

Do consider

• permanently installing fixed power points as a long term solution
• when using power boards on power circuits that you protect them with a safety switch (Residual Current Device - RCD)

 RCDs - A switch to safety (ESS011)