ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI),

[Sneath]

just a show of hands, how many of you refer to the term GFCI over RCD?

*Moderator edit - Added Poll

[JamieP]

Isn't GFCI more an American term?

Always RCD for me

[gregmcc]

not me, always been RCD

**moved to General Electrical Discussion**

[Sneath]

Thanks to Greg and Jamie for your reply, btw its RCD for me also,.

The reason for this show of hands to the use of terminology is was asked by my employer to review a training module that could be used for safe working practices with tools and plant. Under electrical safety with the use of electrical appliances in the workplace, the term GFCI was repeatedly used, the module was developed in New Zealand and although I'm from overseas (Uk) and been living and working in NZ for a number of years now, this is the first time iv seen or heard this term used.

[AlecK]

I would suggest that the training module was based on an American original.
My understanding is that the two terms are not directly interchangeable, as not all GFCIs operate on the residual current principle.

Regardless, always best to stick with the official terms; in this case RCD.
Use of GFCI would give the incorrect impression that equipment labelled GFCI could provide equivalent level of protection; and that's not necessarily true.

Whereas all RCDs with approval for sale / supply in NZ comply with applicable AS/NZS Standards based on (IEC Standards)