Quick Hits

Episode 2: Category Spaces, Receptacles & Wet Locations (517.18 – 517.21)

SLIDE 1 (HOOK / COVER)

⚡ NEC Quick Hit: Patient Bed Receptacles & Wet Locations (Part 2) ⚡

How many receptacles are required at a critical care bed? When do you need GFCI protection versus isolated power? Let's check Sections 517.18 through 517.21! 👇

SLIDE 2 (BED RECEPTACLE REQUIREMENTS)

Counting Hospital-Grade Plugs:

• Category 2 Spaces: Each patient bed location must be supplied by at least two branch circuits (one normal, one critical) and provided with a minimum of 8 hospital-grade receptacles.

• Category 1 Spaces: Critical care bed locations require a minimum of 14 hospital-grade receptacles connected to normal and critical branches (or separate critical transfer switches).

• Operating Rooms: Each OR requires a minimum of 36 receptacles divided between at least two branch circuits.

SLIDE 3 (WET PROCEDURES & GFCI EXEMPTIONS)

Managing Moisture and Continuity:

• Wet Procedure Locations: Must be provided with special protection against electric shock using isolated power systems or Class A GFCIs.

• The Basin Exemption: GFCI protection is not required for receptacles in Category 1 and Category 2 spaces where a basin, sink, or similar plumbing fixture is installed right at the patient bed location. Why? To prioritize the continuous operation of life-support equipment over nuisance tripping.

SLIDE 4 (WRAP-UP)

💡 Apprentice Pro-Tip: All nonlocking hospital-grade receptacles must be identified with a green dot on their face to prove they meet high-durability mechanical and electrical standards!

💬 Save this post for your next hospital wing wiring project!

🔗 More code breakdowns at www.JoshTheSparky.com

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