gfci requirments for a plant

[wireman1]

In a new manufacturing plant the contractor has mounted duplex receptables on the steel columns ,forconvience outlets for extenshion cords etc for use in the plant. the receptables are not gfci ptoteced extenshion cords get damaged ,grounding pins get broken off plugs greacting a dangerous situation for plant personel. atricle 210 8 b does not address manufacturing plants ,yet they are required in kitchen areas of resturants .can the inspector use 9o - 4 to require gfci ptotection for the outlets ?If not this looks like a good proposal for a code change .

 

[iwire]

No an inspector can not simply add a GFCI requirement where one does not exist.

You can certainly put in a proposal and certainly GFCI receptacles can voluntarily be placed in those locations.

 

[George Stolz]

Does OSHA require GFCI protection for workers in a lumber mill?

We were forced to change them out a while back. I might have asked this question and forgot the answer.

 

[ramsy]

Re: gfci requirments for a plant

In a new manufacturing plant the contractor has mounted duplex receptables on the steel columns (where) ..extension cords get damaged, grounding pins get broken off plugs creating a dangerous situation

GFCI's wont make damaged cords safer. The contractor could have made those duplexes Cord Pendant Receptacle outlets, suspended from the ceiling. 99NEC 210-50a & 400-8 Exception, which helps avoid extention cord damage.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

George,
For the most part, portable tools and equipment used in industrial applications must have GFCI protection just like on construction sites per the OSHA rules.
Don

 

[George Stolz]

Thanks Don - maybe this time I'll remember.

 

[haskindm]

GFCI is not a substitute for proper bonding and grounding. It is up to the plant maintenance personell to keep the cords, receptacles, etc. in good repair. An OSHA inspection will not accept GFCI protection instead of proper grounding. Remeber that you may still get shocked from a GFCI protected receptacle and there are hazards from shocks besides electrocution, such as falling.
GFCI wil NOT replace propoer maintenance.