safety switch

[ˈseɪfti swɪtʃ]
nounpl: safety switches
interruptor de segurança
1. An electrical device designed to automatically disconnect power in case of a fault or dangerous condition, protecting people and equipment from electrical hazards
The safety switch automatically cut off the power when it detected a ground fault.
O interruptor de segurança desligou automaticamente a energia quando detectou uma falha de aterramento.
2. A mechanical or electronic switch that prevents a machine or device from operating unless specific safety conditions are met
The washing machine has a safety switch that prevents it from running when the lid is open.
A máquina de lavar tem um interruptor de segurança que impede o funcionamento quando a tampa está aberta.
3. A circuit protection device commonly used in residential and commercial electrical systems to prevent electric shock and electrical fires
Modern homes are required to have safety switches installed in bathrooms and kitchens.
Casas modernas são obrigadas a ter interruptores de segurança instalados em banheiros e cozinhas.
Safety switches are mandatory in modern electrical installations in both the USA and Brazil due to safety regulations. In Brazil, they are especially common in residential installations (required in new builds and renovations), while in the USA, similar devices like GFCI outlets are mandated in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. These devices represent a significant advancement in electrical safety, preventing electrocution deaths and electrical fires.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
circuit breakerresidual current device (RCD)ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)earth leakage circuit breaker (ELCB)safety cutout
Antonyms / Antônimos
unsafe connectionunprotected circuit

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
interruptor de segurança
Standard term used throughout Brazil
Brazil (technical)
dispositivo de proteção
More formal technical term
São Paulo
disjuntor de segurança
Alternative term commonly used in technical contexts
Portugal
disjuntor diferencial
Portuguese standard term for RCD-type safety switches

Related Words

electrical outletcircuit breakergroundingelectrical faultoverload protectionpower disconnectsurge protector

Related Idioms & Phrases

flip the safety switch
throw the safety switch
safety switch tripped
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