Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
Understanding the role of GFCIs in preventing electrical shocks in wet or hazardous environments.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters
A ground-fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, is a device that detects a fault failure by comparing the amount of current flowing to electrical equipment with the amount of current returning from the equipment. Whenever the difference is greater than five milliamps, the GFCI trips and thereby interrupts the flow of electricity. GFCI’s are designed to shut off electric power quickly enough to prevent an electrical incident.
• In general, install GFCIs in the home and/or workplace in wet or humid environments, high-risk areas such as construction sites, and places where people could come into contact with live equipment.
• Use approved GFCI’s for all l20-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20- ampere receptacle outlets on construction sites that are not a part of the permanent wiring of the building.
• Select the right GFCI for the job. The three basic types used in homes and the workplace are the GFI outlet, the GFI circuit breaker, and the portable GFI. All perform the same function but each has different applications and limitations.
• To help ensure safety, limit exposure of connectors and tools to excessive moisture, water, melting ice or rain.
• Test GFCI’s monthly to determine that they are working correctly.
• Never remove the third (ground) wire connection from plugs.