C.
In jurisdictions where older editions of the NEC are being enforced, or where the NEC is
not adopted for regulatory use, it is recommended that AFCI protection be installed in all
newly-constructed dwelling units, hotels, motels, and dormitories following the 2008
NEC requirements.
3.2
GFCI Requirements in the 2008 National Electrical Code
When operating properly, the sum of the current on the current-carrying phase and neutral
conductors of any given branch circuit is zero. A ground-fault occurs when circuit current leaks
to ground, finding an alternate return path to back to the source. GFCIs constantly monitor the
leakage current from the current-carrying conductors and instantly disconnect the circuit if the
leakage current equals or exceeds its trip rating.
GFCIs are required in all areas where known electrical shock hazards exist, such as where outlets
are located in close proximity to moisture, water, or water pipes, such as outdoors, swimming
pools, saunas and hot tubs, kitchens, basements, bathrooms, and garages.
3.2.1 GFCIs
Required
A.
Dwelling Units
: GFCI protection for personnel is required for all 120 Volt, single-phase
receptacles rated 15 A and 20 A located in the following locations [NEC 210.8]:
1)
Bathrooms
2)
Garages and accessory buildings that have a floor located at or below grade level
not intended as habitable rooms and limited to storage areas, work areas, and
areas of similar use
3)
Outdoors
4)
Crawl spaces at or below grade level
5)
Unfinished basements or unfinished rooms within basements
6)
Kitchens where the receptacles are installed to serve the countertop surfaces
7)
Laundry, utility, and wet bar sinks where the receptacles are installed within six
feet of the outside edge of the sink
8)
Boathouses and boat hoist outlets not exceeding 240 volts
The GFCI protection for 15 A and 20 A receptacle branch circuits required by NEC 208.8
is permitted to be provided by GFCI protection for personnel on the feeder that supplies
those branch circuits [NEC 215.9].
Guest rooms and guest suites that are provided with permanent provisions for cooking
must have branch circuits installed to meet the rules for dwelling units [NEC 210.18].
B.
Other Than Dwelling Units
: GFCI protection for personnel is required for all 120 Volt,
single-phase receptacles rated 15 A and 20 A located in the following locations [NEC
210.8]:
1)
Bathrooms
