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Friday, May 31, 2019
Question:
Hi Charlie,
Question in regards to requirement for GFCI receptacles or GFCI breaker protection for an eye wash and emergency shower for a lab. or any other codes that may state the need for GFCI. What about GFCI requirements for 208vac single phase, 208vac 3-phase, and 480vac 3-phase receptacles? Possible solution to use outdoor rated protective covers or Nema 4 covers?
Best regards,
Frank
A
Answer:
Hey Frank thanks for your question. GFCI protection is required for specific receptacles at other than dwelling units as stated in 210.8(B). The voltage to ground is not more than 150 so 480 volt receptacles are not included, three phase receptacles up to 100 amperes and all single phase receptacles are included. Indoor wet locations would include places that need receptacles with those ratings to have GFCI protection as stated in 210.8(B)(6). See the definition of Location, Wet in Article 100 for more information.
NFPA 45, Standard on Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals - 2019, 5.5.1 requires electrical receptacles, switches and controls to be located so as to not be not subject to liquid spills. This is a good practice for all occupancies, even if NFPA 45 does not apply.
If the receptacles in the vicinity of emergency showers and eye was stations are located so they are not in a wet location then GFCI protection is not required.