Change Summary

• Receptacles installed in seating areas or similar surfaces are not permitted in the face-up position unless the installation meets one of list items (1) through (4).
• Subdivision (E) has been revised and expanded to all occupancies and 210.8 GFCI protection applies.
• Subdivision (F) is new and titled Receptacles in Seating Areas or Similar Surfaces

Expert Analysis

The restriction of receptacles from being installed in the face-up position has been expanded to apply to all occupancies, not just dwelling units. The problems related to receptacles installed in the face-up position are the same regardless of occupancy type. There are receptacle assemblies that are manufactured and listed specifically for these types of applications and those assemblies should be used for receptacles in countertop and other work surfaces. A new provision has been incorporated as subdivision (F) and existing subdivisions (F) and (G) have been renumbered. This new text restricts receptacles installed in seating areas and similar surfaces from being installed in the face-up position unless they are part of an assembly listed for that application. Information provided in the substantiation referred to benches in public areas with receptacles installed as part of the assembly. These products address receptacle use for laptop computers, device charging, and powering other portable loads. Receptacles installed in the face-up position in these types of situations also present similar hazards. Where installing receptacles in floors or other similar surfaces, it is required be accomplished with an assembly listed for the application to minimize damage and potential exposure to energized conductors or circuit parts.