What safety device is used to protect against electrical shock?

The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is specifically designed to protect against electrical shock by quickly detecting imbalances in electrical current. When it senses that current is leaking to the ground – which can occur when a person comes into contact with a live wire – the GFCI interrupts the circuit, cutting off the flow of electricity in just milliseconds. This rapid response significantly reduces the risk of severe electric shock or electrocution.

GFCIs are particularly important in areas where moisture is present, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor settings, where the risk of electrical shock is higher. By providing this level of protection, GFCIs are a crucial safety feature in residential and commercial electrical systems.

In contrast, while circuit breakers, fuses, and surge protectors play important roles in electrical safety and system protection, they do not specifically target the prevention of electric shocks in the same way that GFCIs do. Circuit breakers and fuses primarily protect against overloads and short circuits, while surge protectors address voltage spikes.