NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

Which 125-volt single-phase 20-amp receptacles in dwelling unit garages are required to have ground fault circuit interrupters?

1. Receptacles in storage areas

2. Receptacles in work areas

3. Receptacles near entrances

4. Receptacles in laundry rooms

The correct answer is: Receptacles in work areas

In dwelling unit garages, the National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies that 125-volt single-phase 20-amp receptacles installed in work areas must be equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to enhance safety. This requirement is based on the recognition that work areas often involve various electrical tools and equipment that can pose a risk of electric shock, especially in environments where water may be present, such as garages. GFCIs are designed to protect individuals from electrical shock by interrupting the circuit when they detect ground faults, which can occur when electricity escapes its intended path. Since work areas in garages frequently involve activities that require the use of power tools or machinery, the installation of GFCI-protected receptacles is vital to ensure user safety. Other settings like storage areas, near entrances, and laundry rooms may not have the same inherent risks associated with the use of electrical equipment and do not have the same GFCI requirements as stated in the NEC for work areas in garages. Therefore, the NEC focuses specifically on work areas for this safety measure.