Which device is designed to prevent electric shocks?

The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is specifically designed to prevent electric shocks by disconnecting the power supply in the event of a ground fault. A ground fault occurs when electricity flows through an unintended path to the ground, which can happen, for instance, when a person comes into contact with water while using an electrical device. The GFCI continuously monitors the current flowing through the circuit and can detect any imbalances between the outgoing and incoming current. If it senses a discrepancy, it reacts quickly—typically within milliseconds—by cutting off the electrical supply, thereby reducing the risk of serious injuries from electric shock.

In contrast, other devices like fused switches or surge protectors serve different functions, such as protecting circuits from overloads or voltage surges, and do not directly address the safety issue of electric shocks. A voltage regulator stabilizes voltage levels but does not provide any shock protection. Thus, the GFCI stands out as the best choice for protecting people from electric shocks.