GFCIs in a Commercial Installation

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Jon456

Jon456

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Colorado
[Note: I posted some GFCI questions in another thread (Sump Pump on a GFCI) but didn't get any answers to my questions regarding commercial applications.]

1. For a commercial facility (like an auto repair shop or small machine shop) is GFCI protection required on all outlets?

2. Besides portable tools, many stationary tools (e.g., compressors, saws, lathes, etc.) are corded and intended to be plugged into outlets (usually dedicated for that particular machine's use). Some of the motors on those stationary tools draw considerable current, particularly on start-up. Must each outlet serving those stationary tools also be GFCI protected? And if so, how does one handle the current requirements? All the standard GFCI devices I've seen are either 15A or 20A.

3. What if the tool is 230V (with a cord & plug)?

4. If GFCI is required (or recommended) on outlet branch circuits in a commercial workshop, would you use individual GFCI outlets, a single GFCI outlet with downstream protection, or a GFCI breaker?

5. I read elsewhere that GFCI will be mandated for lighting circuits. Is this a 2008 code change? And will it apply to commercial facilities?

Applicable code references would be appreciated!
 
1. There are some special gfci requirements for special occupancies, such as commercial garages, as identified in Chapter 5 of the NEC. Otherwise, the rules of 210.8(B) apply.

2. Other than following the manufacturer's instruntions, the general rules of Article 210, 422, and 430 would apply.

3. Again, follow the instructions, otherwise gfci protection is an option.

4. This is a design consideration, each option has it pros and cons.

5. Nothing that applies generally or code wide.
 
Jon456 said:
[Note: I posted some GFCI questions in another thread (Sump Pump on a GFCI) but didn't get any answers to my questions regarding commercial applications.]

1. For a commercial facility (like an auto repair shop or small machine shop) is GFCI protection required on all outlets?
Click to expand...

Look in the index at Ground-fault Circuit Interrupters, scan down until you come to "Garages, Commercial" then, as directed, go to 511.12 on page 70-390 of the '05 NEC. You can use this method to answer many of your questions. :smile:
 
lpelectric said:
Look in the index at Ground-fault Circuit Interrupters, scan down until you come to "Garages, Commercial" then, as directed, go to 511.12 on page 70-390 of the '05 NEC. You can use this method to answer many of your questions. :smile:
Click to expand...

Sorry, I really wasn't being lazy. I did look at the NEC first (I'm using the online version), but couldn't find what I was looking for. The online version is not searchable and so I've been finding things by clicking the button to open the Table of Contents and then scanning through that long list by eye.

Mea culpa -- I didn't realize there was also an index. Now I know better! (Too bad the online version doesn't also have a button to open the index.)
 
Jon456 said:
4. If GFCI is required (or recommended) on outlet branch circuits in a commercial workshop, would you use individual GFCI outlets, a single GFCI outlet with downstream protection, or a GFCI breaker?!
Click to expand...

Each way would meet code, without a doubt the least troublesome method for the user is GFCI receptacles at each point of use.

A few reasons for this

1) Each thing added to a GFCI circuit has some 'leakage current' and gets the GFCI closer to the trip point.

2) If it does trip it will not effect a large amount of equipment

3) If it does trip it will be easy to reset.
 
Jon, being that you are a trainee, you really need to invest in a code book. It will help you when researching and following the advice members are giving you. The online version is not user friendly by design.

Roger
 
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