In a case where electrical current leakage from the circuit occurs, the GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) first senses the current leakage by detecting any imbalance between the current flowing into the circuit and the current returning. Once the GFCI detects this leakage, it quickly trips the circuit to interrupt the flow of electricity, which effectively cuts off the electricity supply to prevent electric shock or electrocution.
This protective mechanism happens swiftly, typically within milliseconds, to ensure safety from potentially lethal electrical faults.
