It's always a good practice to turn your face away from the panel before flipping a breaker, particularly if you suspect that you have a defective one. Occasionally, they physically fall apart internally and they will short out when you are flipping the toggle. I only had it happen once, but once was enough:shocked: And yes, breaker failures are quite common, particularly if it's the low end units, like the universal fit "Homeline" type, or older junk like Zinsco. The other common failure is GFCI receptacles. I avoid doing most service work, but I still keep a few new GFCI outlets around for the friends and neighbors who call in a panic because the bathroom has no power, or the pool pump is dead. At least 50% of the time it's a failed GFCI. I have also had run- ins with garbage quality, brand new GFCI outlets that were defective right out of the box. Nothing like having two or three to change in a new home. The made in China label and the total lack of product quality and testing are certainly inspiring.