Journeyman Electrician Practice Exam

In terms of safety, which type of receptacle in a commercial kitchen must be protected by GFCI?

1. Only wall sockets

2. All 208-volt receptacles

3. All 120-volt kitchen outlets

4. All outlets supplied by single-phase circuits up to 50 amperes

The correct answer is: All outlets supplied by single-phase circuits up to 50 amperes

The requirement for GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection in a commercial kitchen is rooted in safety standards aimed at reducing the risk of electric shock, especially in areas where water and electricity may come into contact. The correct answer highlights that all outlets supplied by single-phase circuits up to 50 amperes need to have GFCI protection. In a commercial kitchen, various appliances are frequently used, and many of them can be in high-moisture areas, increasing the risk of ground faults. The National Electrical Code (NEC) mandates that all 120-volt receptacles used in such settings receive GFCI protection to ensure a safe working environment. This includes not only wall sockets but also any receptacles that may be used for food preparation, dishwashing, or cleaning. While some options may refer specifically to voltage ratings or particular receptacles, the requirement for GFCI protection is broad and includes a range of outlets when operating under certain circumstances. Single-phase circuit receptacles, especially those handling up to 50 amperes, are classified accordingly to support this safety measure. Thus, adhering to these codes is crucial for compliance with safety standards in commercial kitchen settings.