NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

Circuits leading to or through gasoline dispensing equipment must have what protective feature?

1. A means to disconnect all conductors

2. A surge protector

3. A circuit breaker

4. A ground fault interrupter

The correct answer is: A means to disconnect all conductors

The requirement for circuits leading to or through gasoline dispensing equipment to have a means to disconnect all conductors is crucial for safety. This feature is intended to allow for the complete disconnection of electrical supply in emergency situations or for maintenance purposes. In environments where flammable materials like gasoline are present, having a method to quickly and completely disconnect power reduces the risk of ignition from electrical sources. It ensures that maintenance personnel can safely work on the equipment without risk of shock or fire. This feature is part of a broader set of safety measures outlined in the National Electrical Code (NEC), which emphasizes the importance of accessible disconnecting means to enhance overall safety in hazardous locations. While other protective features, such as surge protectors, circuit breakers, and ground fault interrupters, are vital in their own contexts, they do not address the immediate need for disconnection from power sources like a dedicated disconnecting means does. Thus, the presence of a means to disconnect all conductors is specifically mandated for the safe operation of gasoline dispensing equipment.