Glad someone is paying attention, even if that part wasn't mentioned.
Actually, this is the one part of the code that I personally would like to know how to write up a request for a change... As I feel that with the advent of GFCI and now in 2020 AFCI rules amandating every circuit in the house to have at least one if not both, and with the failure in certain countries or maybe possibly certain places in the USA to have access to breakers at reasonable prices that do the job, and such other factors, we need to get a clarification of the rules to allow an outlet above the counters to not be considered part of the two appliance circuits if it is simply put in place to give an accessible location for the dishwasher, or Fridge, or Freezer or Garbage disposal AFCI or GFCI requirements... Deadfronts may be preferred but until we see DP switch/gfci outlets available, would like another option and labeling a GFCI outlet with Fridge supply, or Dishwasher supply, or Washing machine supply, etc... in permanent marking like we have DP switches in UK and Europe above the counter just makes sense to me.
Now, it may not be considered necessary by many, but I do not consider AFCI to be necessary when most of the concerns about Arc Fault are simply gotten rid of by A) using a properly designed stapler rather than a hammer, and B) using proper torque for all connections...
But, current rules in the USA require AFCI, Europe is slowly joiniing in, with it being Optional right now, but slowly picking up pace... And finally, Jamaica seems to be inching closer to adopting the NEC, though the Wire Colors is currently the biggest hang up..lol
So, who could help me write a code proposal better so we could get an exception to the idea that every outlet above a counter must be part of the small appliance circuits?