NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

For 125-volt receptacles located within how many feet of the inside wall of a pool or fountain must be protected by a grounding-fault circuit interrupter?

1. 10 ft

2. 15 ft

3. 20 ft

4. 25 ft

The correct answer is: 20 ft

The correct response to this question reflects the safety stipulations established by the National Electrical Code (NEC) regarding receptacles near pools and fountains. According to these regulations, 125-volt receptacles that are located within 20 feet of the inside wall of a pool or fountain must be equipped with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). The requirement for GFCI protection in this scenario is essential due to the increased risk of electrical shock that can occur when water is present, particularly in a swimming pool or fountain environment. The GFCI serves as a critical safety device that quickly disconnects power when it detects a ground fault, such as when there is an unintended path from the electrical current to the ground, which can happen in wet conditions. The 20-foot distance specified is designed to cover areas where an individual is likely to be in close proximity to water, thereby minimizing the potential for dangerous electrical interactions. This provision ensures that any receptacles used for equipment such as pumps, lighting, or other electrical devices near the water will be equipped with necessary safety features to prevent electrical hazards.