Quiz 1 – Basic Electrical Knowledge

Whilst we accept that electricity flows around a circuit (similar to water flowing in a pipe), in an AC circuit, the current flows down the live wire but then changes direction and flows back down the neutral. This change of direction - alternating between the live and neutral - happens 50 times a second (50Hz)

Using equipment in the correct environment is important.  An item marked as 'indoor use only' indicates it shouldn't be exposed to the environment i.e. it won't be safe if used in damp or wet conditions

When we need to use an extension lead, it is always good practice to use a single lead of the correct length. Connecting multiple leads together introduces potential 'hot-spots' (poor connections), leads of different grades (some leads have a greater capacity than others) and by adding extra sockets we are encouraging people to plug more items in and overloading the circuit

While an earth path is a safety device, it can be problematic.  It is arguably better to prevent electricity leaking out of the equipment by using more insulation, rather than dealing with electricity which has already leaked out by sending it down an earth wire.

All fuses designed for a standard BS1363 3-pin plug used in the UK are made to BS1362.  3 Amp fuses are red and 13 Amp fuses are brown.  All of the non-standard fuses are black (1A, 2A, 5A, 7A and 10A). Fuses of the wrong colour or carrying incorrect information are potential counterfeits

Many electrical items are made in other countries and will have travelled, so there is a possibility damage could have been caused in transit. The instruction manual doesn't just tell you how to use an appliance, but also where and for how long. The majority of appliances are designed for domestic use i.e. a limited amount of time, as excessive use can lead to breakdown, overheating and fires

The correct wiring of a BS1363 plug is:

• Live (brown) to the right
• Neutral (Blue) to the left
• Earth (green/yellow) to the top

Don't forget, a plug needs a cord-grip to secure the flex to the plug.  One of the answer images has this vital part missing, so the plug is not acceptable, even though the wires might be in the correct positions.

Passing electricity through a flex will cause it to heat up a little.  If the flex is coiled, the heat cannot escape and will build up, leading to fires.  Care should be taken to not overload the extension lead, while also making sure it fully unwound before use

In 2006, the wiring colour designations within the UK were harmonised with countries in mainland Europe to fulfil the specification of international standard IEC 60446.  Live is brown, neutral is blue and earth is green/yellow

All fuses designed for a standard BS1363 3-pin plug used in the UK are made to BS1362.  3 Amp fuses are red and 13 Amp fuses are brown.  All of the non-standard fuses are black (1A, 2A, 5A, 7A and 10A). Fuses of the wrong colour or carrying incorrect information are potential counterfeits