GFI protection

[Crw16]

Recently had numerous outlets in a medical procedure area where plug tester was showing open ground. I had been asked to install gfi protected outlets as this is considered a "wet" area. Medical equip tech informed me that there is a "floating ground system" present. What is this? How does it work? Does it negate the need for GFCI protection of personnel?

 

[roger]

Sounds like an Isolated Power System, see 517.160. Is there a panelboard with a Line Isolation Monitor in the area?
If it is an Isolated Power System your plug tester will show faults, the system does not have a neutral, it is 60v / 60v L-L. You do not need GFCI's on these systems.

Roger

 

[kwired]

Sounds like an Isolated Power System, see 517.160. Is there a panelboard with a Line Isolation Monitor in the area?
If it is an Isolated Power System your plug tester will show faults, the system does not have a neutral, it is 60v / 60v L-L. You do not need GFCI's on these systems.

Roger

Yes, make sure it isn't one of these before proceeding with anything. GFCI could even be undesired here, there is a reason it is set up like it is, if that is what it is.