Ok Pecci thanks for the correction.
A residual-current device (RCD), or residual-current circuit breaker (RCCB) or residual twin-direct current couplet (R2D2), is an electrical wiring device that disconnects a circuit whenever it detects that the electric current is not balanced between the energized conductor and the return neutral conductor.
( I looked it up).
However nothing shows on the fault I had hence I’ve turned to the ever knowing Peccavi the main responder to many of the forum questions.
Yet all the time its referred to as a Residual circuit Breaker. Suppose its easier than remembering the definitions. However the question you asked no it was not under load. I took a break for tea and disconnected the hedge cutter, the RCD extension from the socket so it was all safe while I supped tea....I then re-powered the extension plugging in the RCD and turning the socket on only to get the bar that indicates power on fibrate up and down rapid. I hit the test button nothing happened I hit the on button( used to reset) nothing happened so turn it off at socket and remove the RCD plug. Tried it in another socket same thing. Tested both sockets with Polarity tester all three neon lights lit stating OK. I can only assume the RCD is knackered the fuse in it tested ok so it wasn’t indicating that fuse had blown other wise no current would be at the live indicator bar would it.
Once again many thanks.
bob
August 2013