Code Q&A

Aug. 20, 2009

Q. What are the GFCI requirements for vending machines?

A. According to 422.51, cord-and-plug-connected vending machines must include a GFCI as an integral part of the attachment plug, or within 12 in. of the attachment plug. Older machines that aren’t so equipped must be con¬nected to a GFCI-protected outlet. The term “vending machine” means a self-service device that dispenses products or merchandise and requires coin, paper currency, token, card, key, or receipt of payment by other means.

Because electric vending machines are often located in damp or wet locations in public places, and are used by people standing on the ground, reliance on an equipment grounding conductor for protection against electrocution is insufficient.

About the Author

Mike Holt

Mike Holt is the owner of Mike Holt Enterprises (www.MikeHolt.com), one of the largest electrical publishers in the United States. He earned a master's degree in the Business Administration Program (MBA) from the University of Miami. He earned his reputation as a National Electrical Code (NEC) expert by working his way up through the electrical trade. Formally a construction editor for two different trade publications, Mike started his career as an apprentice electrician and eventually became a master electrician, an electrical inspector, a contractor, and an educator. Mike has taught more than 1,000 classes on 30 different electrical-related subjects — ranging from alarm installations to exam preparation and voltage drop calculations. He continues to produce seminars, videos, books, and online training for the trade as well as contribute monthly Code content to EC&M magazine.