Which of the following safety features is commonly found in switchgear designs?

Protective relays are critical safety components in switchgear designs, serving as the primary means of monitoring electrical parameters and ensuring system protection. They continuously analyze electrical currents and voltages. When they detect abnormalities, such as overloads, short circuits, or ground faults, protective relays initiate tripping of the associated circuit breakers. This action helps isolate faulty sections of the electrical system, thereby safeguarding equipment and personnel.

While directional relays are used in specific applications to determine the direction of fault current flow, and insulation barriers play a role in preventing electrical contact and enhancing safety, protective relays specifically focus on system protection and are an integral part of switchgear functionality. Flow regulators, on the other hand, are more associated with fluid management rather than electrical safety and protection, making them less relevant in this context.