Change Summary

• GFCI protection requirements for dwelling units have been expanded
• A new list item (9) dealing with bathtubs and shower stalls has been added to 210.8(A)
• GFCI protection is required for receptacles installed within 1.8 m (6 ft) of the outside edge of a bathtub or shower stall in residential occupancies

Expert Analysis

Favorable action by Code Making Panel-2 results in a new requirement for GFCI protection for receptacles located within 6 feet of the outside edge of a bathtub or shower stall. Information in the substantiation indicated that this new requirement would mirror that found in 680.71 for hydromassage tubs. This is a logical provision since sometimes bathtubs or shower stalls are not always located in an area that meets the NEC definition of a bathroom. Consequently under previous NEC rules, any 125-volt, 15- or 20-ampere, single-phase receptacle installed in those areas would not require GFCI protection. Many of these areas may have tile or other conductive surfaces and possibly floors that are considered grounded surfaces. This presents a serious danger to a person getting out of the tub or shower, who is soaking wet and is likely to use a non-GFCI protected receptacle. This new list item (9) closes this gap for GFCI protection requirements within 6 feet of tubs and showers that are not in bathrooms or bathroom areas. This new requirement will provide a better level of safety for residential occupants and improve enforcement capabilities for inspectors requiring GFCI protection for such receptacles when no Code text previously existed.

GFCI Protection

In bathroom environments customers often prefer Leviton’s SmartlockPro® X7592 and X7892 combination GFCI’s because it offers a built-in Guide Light for safety in the dark. 

This combination device is ideal for installation in homes, hotels, health care facilities and anywhere GFCI protection is required or mandated. A photo sensor turns the energy-efficient, long-life LED ON and OFF. Pilot light versions provide easy to see indication of power availability, and are ideal for basements and garages where power is supplied to sump pumps or appliances. Available in Hospital Grade and select Decora® colors