What safety device is designed to cut off power when it detects a ground fault?

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is specifically designed to protect people from electric shock by detecting ground faults. A ground fault occurs when electricity travels through an unintended path, such as through a person who is touching a faulty appliance. When the GFCI detects a discrepancy between the outgoing current and incoming current, it quickly disconnects the power supply to prevent potentially dangerous electrical situations.

GFCIs are commonly used in areas where electrical equipment is exposed to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor locations, because these environments increase the risk of ground faults. By cutting off power almost instantly upon detection of a ground fault, GFCIs provide crucial safety metrics, reducing the risk of serious injury or fatality from electric shock.

Understanding this function helps highlight the importance of GFCIs in promoting electrical safety, particularly in environments prone to moisture where the likelihood of ground faults is increased.