Code Quiz

According to the 2005 NEC, in which of the following scenarios would GFCI protection be required on 20A branch circuits in the kitchen area of a small college cafeteria?

A) On all 15A and 20A receptacles in the entire kitchen area if it has a sink and a portable microwave oven that is occasionally moved from one location to another
B) Only on the countertop areas of the kitchen
C) On all 15A and 20A receptacles in the entire kitchen area if it has a sink and a built-in (permanently installed) microwave oven
D) This isn't required by any edition of the NEC

Answer: C)

Explanation: Per a 2005 NEC change, including a new description of commercial and institutional kitchens, GFCI protection is required for all 15A and 20A receptacles installed in these kitchens. For the purposes of this section, a kitchen is an area with a sink and permanent facilities for food preparation and cooking.

Owen is the owner and president of National Code Seminars and the holder of master electrician certifications in 46 states.