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Monday, October 3, 2022
Question:
Hello Charlie,
The 2018 Edition of NFPA 99 Healthcare Facilities Code 6.3.2.3.4 States that an operating room shall be considered a wet location unless the Hospital Governing body determines otherwise. The NEC 406.9(B) states in wet locations it must be in a weather-resistant enclosure with WR cover. I have been in many operating rooms and have never seen WR enclosures, covers, or receptacles in the headwall. Is it required by the NEC?
Sincerely,
Kelly Wafford.
A
Answer:
Good Morning Kelly,
Section 406.9(B) pertains to "Wet Locations" as defined in NEC™️ Article 100: Installations underground or in concrete slabs of masonry in direct contact with the earth; in locations subject to saturation with water or other liquids, such as vehicle washing areas; and in unprotected locations exposed to weather. Section 6.3.2.3.4 of NFPA 99 is referring "Wet Procedure Locations" this is a term specifically defined in Section 3.3.183 of NFPA 99: The area in a patient care space where a procedure is performed that is normally subject to wet conditions while patients are present, including standing fluids on the floor or drenching of the work area, either of which condition is intimate to the patient or staff.
Section 517.20(A) of the NEC™️ does address receptacles installed in "Wet Procedure Locations".