GFCI Protection required?

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cgorham

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We are placing receptacles and outlets based on FHA reach requirements. On certain kitchen islands this forces us to mount the disposal switch below the counter top (at the same height as a GFI receptacle according to NEC 210-52(B)(5) Exception. I believe since these are flat counter tops with no backsplashes this switch will be exposed to water hence either require a GFI circuit breaker, or be called out as weather proof, however some say since it is a grounded switch there is no hazard to the user. My scenario for potential shock hazard would be if someone is touching the metal surface of the sink and a continous stream of water reaches the load side of the switch the person becomes the ground.

Let me know what action is required and if there are specific code sections that I need to review for this scenario.

Thanks,

Chris Gorham
 
The NEC does not require GFCI protection for switches.

In my opinion it is imposable to call it a wet location unless the construction methods in the area of the switch are also required to be wet location.

Is there a drain in the floor? etc.
 
I agree with Bob.

At the Southwestern Section Meeting, it was agreed upon that a counter top is not a wet location per the definitons. It is more likely that something will be spilled or wiped down, but as many pointed out, you could run a steam cleaner over or spill a glass of water on a floor receptecale and it's not considered to be in a wet location.
 
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