Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects today said the Federal Government insulation program had dramatically highlighted the problem of homes without the life saving safety switches.

Michael Cooper, Tasmanian State Manager Archicentre said an electrical safety switch monitors the flow of electricity through a circuit. It detects a problem as soon as the current leaves the circuit, and turns the power off within 0.03 of a second. This is quick enough to help save your life and help prevent costly fires or damage to your property.

Mr Cooper said new homes and renovations by law have to install the safety switches to minimize the risk of electrocution, however, the issue occurs in older and heritage style homes. The protection these electrical safety switches offer extends to everyone in the home using an electrical appliance.

"If you are having an electrician alter the wiring on an existing home, for example putting in extra power points for new appliances, Archicentre suggests the electrician also installs electrical safety switches in the main switchboard for your protection."

Mr Cooper said homeowners getting an electrical safety inspection as a result of the Home Insulation Program investigation are urged to get the electrician to put in safety switches if they don't already have them, even if their insulation is fine.