Circuit Symbols
© John Hewes 2009, The Electronics Club, http://www.kpsec.freeuk.com/ Used with permission
Standard circuit symbols are used in circuit diagrams (an example from the Electronic Club
Website) showing how a circuit is connected together. A circuit diagram is only a schematic of the
actual layout which usually looks quite different from the circuit diagram.
Activity:
A wide range of symbols for common components found in electrical circuits can be viewed from
the following website:
Electrical circuit symbols
(As an alternative a printed sheet of different symbols and their names could be provided).
Step 1
From the symbols provided select those that are commonly encountered in a science classroom
(consult with your teacher if you are unsure).
Within MS Word create and complete a table that provides the following information for each
component selected:
Component Name
Circuit Symbol
Photograph of component
Function of the component
Risks associated with the use of these components.
Within the Risks column you should suggest ways to minimise the risk.
The following websites may help you in this aspect of the task:
(http://web.princeton.edu/sites/ehs/labguide/sec_5.htm)
Note the table describing the hazardous effects of different sized electrical currents is based on a
North American delivery voltage of 110 Volts. Australian standard voltages are 240 Volts. The
table below describes the likely hazardous effects at 240Volts.
© Commonwealth of Australia 2009
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From http://lrr.dlr.det.nsw.edu.au/LRRDownloads/4143/1/elec_energy_part6.pdf
Students might like to explore why there are differences in the North American situation and the
Australian situation.
A site that gives an indication of the attention paid to electrical safety in the workplace and advice
given to apprentices in Australia can be found at:
http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/EnergySafety/PDF/Publications/Apprentices_Safety_A.pdf
Step 2
Use the information you have gathered in the work above to produce a Work Safety Poster. For
one component clearly identify the risks and hazards associated with using that component and
the safety precaution to follow to ensure safe handling and operating procedures.
© Commonwealth of Australia 2009
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