ICC Residential Electrical Inspectors Practice Exam

Which of the following is a required protection for personnel when using bathroom receptacles?

1. Overload protection

2. Ground fault circuit interrupter

3. Surge protector

4. Voltage stabilizer

The correct answer is: Ground fault circuit interrupter

Using bathroom receptacles necessitates specific protections due to the potentially hazardous conditions associated with water and electricity. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are crucial in these environments because they are designed to protect individuals from electrical shock. A GFCI monitors the current flowing through a circuit and interrupts the flow if it detects an imbalance, which can indicate that current is leaking through an unintended path, such as through a person's body. This immediate disconnection of power is critical in preventing severe injuries or fatalities that could arise from electrical shock. The other options, such as overload protection, surge protectors, and voltage stabilizers, address different concerns. Overload protection prevents too much current from flowing through a circuit, which can cause overheating and potential fire hazards, but does not specifically shield against shock risks posed by contact with damp surfaces. Surge protectors are effective at defending against voltage spikes, usually from lightning or power surges, protecting equipment rather than personal safety directly. Voltage stabilizers regulate and maintain voltage levels to equipotentialize instrumentation that requires a stable voltage; however, they do not provide direct protection from shock hazards. Given the inherent risks of using electrical outlets in bathrooms—where moisture is prevalent—the requirement for GFCIs aligns directly with safety standards