Loose GFCI Outlets Under Hydrotherapy Bathtubs

[Cimmaron_Sailor]

It is very common to see GFCI type electrical outlets installed under hydrotherapy bathtubs. There are covers installed so the opinion is that these are not readily accessible to a person using the bathtub however, should the device become wet (say from a pump or plumbing leak) it would likely become inoperable or be circumvented by the water contacting the wiring conductors ahead of the device. They are also seldom mounted above the floor. Does anyone know what the NEC requires on these installations?

 

[mdshunk]

Re: Loose GFCI Outlets Under Hydrotherapy Bathtubs

Circumvented? I think not.

What you describe is a compliant and normal installation (as long as it's not face up). The code makes no special provisions for receptacles mounted in dry locations, but below a pipe that might leak at some point in time. A hurricane could blow through town and take your whole roof off, and the NEC makes no special requirements for the devices in the house in that case either.