ICC Residential Electrical Inspectors Practice Exam

All 120 volt, single phase, 15 and 20 ampere receptacles located within _________________ of the outside edge of a bar sink require ground fault circuit interrupter protection.

1. 3 feet

2. 4 feet

3. 6 feet

4. 8 feet

The correct answer is: 6 feet

For receptacles located in proximity to a bar sink, the requirement for ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection is vital due to the increased risk of electrical shock in wet locations. The National Electrical Code (NEC) mandates that any 120-volt, single-phase, 15 and 20 ampere receptacles situated within 6 feet of the outside edge of a sink must have GFCI protection. This is because water is a significant conductor of electricity, and having outlets near sinks can pose a danger if they are not properly protected. By specifying a distance of 6 feet, the code aims to ensure that any receptacles that might be accessible to individuals working in or around that area, where splashing or moisture might occur, are equipped with GFCI devices that can quickly cut off the electrical supply in the event of a ground fault, significantly reducing the risk of electrical shock. Choosing a distance of 6 feet reflects a balance between accessibility for use and safety, aligning with best practices in residential electrical installations.