HOLT Electricians Practice Exam

Are all 125 volt, 15 and 20 ampere receptacles in machine rooms required to be GFCI protected?

1. True

2. False

3. Only in wet conditions

4. Only for new installations

The correct answer is: True

All 125 volt, 15 and 20 ampere receptacles in machine rooms are indeed required to be GFCI protected because these areas often present potential electrical hazards due to the presence of moisture, equipment, or other factors that could increase the risk of electric shock. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is essential in any location where electrical equipment may interact with wet conditions or where personnel might be more vulnerable to electric shock. The GFCI works by detecting imbalances in electrical current and quickly disconnecting the power, providing an additional layer of safety to reduce the risk of serious injury or fatality. This requirement aligns with the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards, which prioritize safety in environments that could promote hazardous conditions. Therefore, having GFCI protection is not only prudent but a code requirement for receptacles in machine rooms.