ICC Residential Electrical Inspectors Practice Exam

For receptacles located near sinks, what is the distance that mandates ground fault circuit interrupter protection?

1. More than 6 feet

2. Less than 3 feet

3. Within 6 feet

4. More than 8 feet

The correct answer is: Within 6 feet

Receptacles located near sinks are required to have ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection when they are within 6 feet of the sink. This requirement is based on safety considerations to minimize the risk of electrical shock, particularly in areas where water is present, such as kitchens and bathrooms. When outlets are positioned close to a sink, there is an increased potential for water exposure, which can lead to serious electrical hazards. GFCI devices are specifically designed to cut off the electrical circuit if they detect a ground fault, thereby offering enhanced protection for users in these wet areas. Other distances mentioned, such as more than 6 feet or less than 3 feet, do not align with the established safety standards, which explicitly define the 6-foot range as the threshold for GFCI requirements in relation to sinks. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the crucial boundary that enhances safety in residential electrical systems around water sources.