CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorEquipment and InstallationMedium
A commercial kitchen is undergoing renovation. A new 120-volt, 20-ampere receptacle is being installed on a countertop. According to the California Electrical Code (CEC), what is the maximum distance this receptacle can be from the edge of the sink without requiring ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection?
- AIt must always be GFCI protected regardless of distance.
- B6 feet (1.8 m)
- C2 feet (600 mm)
- D4 feet (1.2 m)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. It must always be GFCI protected regardless of distance.
NEC 210.8(B)(6) specifically requires all 120-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed in commercial kitchens to have GFCI protection, regardless of their distance from a sink. The distance rule applies to other non-dwelling locations like bathrooms, rooftops, etc., but not commercial kitchens.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This distance is incorrect for commercial kitchens; the distance rule does not apply.
- C. This distance is incorrect for commercial kitchens; the distance rule does not apply.
- D. This distance is incorrect for commercial kitchens; the distance rule does not apply.
GFCI in Commercial Kitchens
All 120-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles in commercial kitchens are required to have ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection, regardless of their location or proximity to water sources.
- Applies to 15A and 20A, 120V receptacles.
- Mandatory in commercial kitchens.
- No distance exemption for sinks (unlike other non-dwelling locations).
Memory trick: GFCI for Non-Dwellings: Wet, Work, Wash, Water.