NEC Clause on Non-GFCI Outdoor Receptacles for Industries and Data Centers

[julianov]

Hello All. I wanted to ask if in the USA, there is any clause in the NEC that allows outdoor receptacles in industries or data centers to not be GFCI. If they are WP and located outdoors, can they be non-GFCI?

 

[Joe.B]

210.8(B)(4) Exception No. 2 May be applicable, if the right conditions are present.

 

[tom baker]

If the GFCI is tripping then the connected equipment has a ground fault. It could be 8 mA or 80.
The exception is very difficult to comply with. It used to be allowed on construction sites but using GFCIs was much easier. It some cases it would be up to the ACJ to allow

 

[Joe.B]

210.8(B)(4)
Exception No. 2 to (4): In industrial establishments only, where the conditions of maintenance and supervision ensure that only qualified personnel are involved, an assured equipment grounding conductor program as specified in 590.6(B)(2) shall be permitted for only those receptacle outlets used to supply equipment that would create a greater hazard if power is interrupted or having a design that is not compatible with GFCI protection.

 

[julianov]

But it is difficult to follow Exception No. 2 because the receptacles are outdoors. How can one ensure that only qualified personnel will access them?

 

[tom baker]

That’s not an NEC issue. Look at definition of qualified person, it’s a management issue as to who and how

 

[winnie]

What is the problem being solved by eliminating a GFCI?

Is a particular piece of equipment tripping a GFCI in circumstances that make this more of a nuisance than simply pressing the reset button?

Jonathan

 

[Joe.B]

The OP mentioned Data Center, they have extensive lightning protection systems that include monitoring and alarm systems requiring power. I imagine those could have issues with GFCI outlets. I was quite surprised at the extent they go to to make sure they have uninterrupted service.