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406.4(D) AFCI and GFCI Replacement Receptacles

Change Summary

  • All AFCI and GFCI outlet devices installed as replacements are required to be readily accessible.
  • The revision clarifies that ready access is required to perform required periodic testing and response to tripped conditions.
  • A new last sentence has been added to 406.4(D) addressing receptacle replacements
NEC® Text

 
406.4 General Installation Requirements… (See NEC text)

D) Replacements. Replacement of receptacles shall comply with 406.4(D)(1) through (D)(6), as applicable. Arc-fault circuit-interrupter type and ground-fault circuit-interrupter type receptacles shall be installed in a readily accessible location.

Definition of Readily Accessible from Article 100:
Accessible,  Readily (Readily Accessible).  Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to actions such as to use tools, to climb over or remove obstacles, or to resort to portable ladders, and so forth.

Copyright© 2013 National Fire Protection Association

(See NEC for complete text)

Expert Analysis

Ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) devices and now arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) devices are both required to be readily accessible as provided in Article 210. This revision aligns the readily accessible requirement for AFCI and GFCI devices covered in 210.8(A) and (B) with the rules for replacement AFCI and GFCI devices required by 406.4(D). While it is clear that ready access is required for AFCI and GFCI installations, there were no such provisions for replacements, but the same needs exist. Justification for the ready access is primarily related to occupant or user accessibility to exercise the monthly testing and reset features of the device. Arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection and GFCI protection can be accomplished by circuit breaker types, or receptacle device types which have the same test and reset features and requirements for monthly testing. Accessibility to these replacement protective devices should not be different than the ready access required for newly installed GFCI and AFCI devices. This revision also promotes consistency with the listing requirements for these devices that specify monthly testing and resetting operations which facilitates ready access.

AFCI Receptacles

Leviton AFCI receptacles are the preferred solution when replacing receptacles in areas that require AFCI protection.

  • Slim Design
  • Impact-Resistant
  • Patented Reset Lockout
  • Tamper-Resistant Shutters
  • Terminals Withstand High-Torque
  • Standard Self-Ground Clip
  • Back and Side Wire
  • (External Back Wire Clamp)
  • Dual Function Indicator Light
  • Meets latest UL Requirements
  • 15 and 20 Amp Models Available
  • Colors: White, Ivory, Light Almond, Gray, Black or Brown

 

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