Final answer:
Modern electrical safety systems, such as the three-wire system with circuit breakers and fuses, along with ground fault interrupters (GFIs) and isolation transformers, are critical to preventing thermal and electrical shock hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Electrical Safety Systems and Devices
Electrical safety systems and devices are crucial in preventing accidents such as thermal and shock hazards. One key element is the circuit breaker or a fuse, which serves to interrupt excessive currents in order to prevent thermal overload. When it comes to wiring, the modern approach involves a three-wire system, incorporating live/hot, neutral, and earth/ground wires, with the neutral wire and the case of the appliance both being grounded. This is essential for guarding against both thermal and electrical shock hazards.
A step further in ensuring electrical safety is the inclusion of a ground fault interrupter (GFI). A GFI is a device that detects the loss of current in a circuit that may occur if electricity is flowing along an unintended path, such as through a person's body, and promptly interrupts the flow to prevent shock.
In addition to GFIs, isolation transformers are used to insulate the device being powered from the original power source, adding another layer of protection against electrical shock. These devices, along with circuit breakers and GFIs, often employ induction to perform their functions.
To ensure that various devices operate independently and maintain the same voltage, connections are typically made in parallel. This allows each device to function independently without affecting the others tied to the same power source.