When is GFCI protection not required for equipment at a carnival?

GFCI protection is an essential safety feature designed to prevent electrical shock by interrupting the electrical circuit when it detects an imbalance between incoming and outgoing current. However, there are specific circumstances under which GFCI protection may not be deemed necessary for equipment used at a carnival.

In this context, when receptacles are of the locking type, they provide a secure connection that reduces the risk of accidental disconnection during use. This inherent design feature minimizes the likelihood of an electrical hazard, which may lead to the conclusion that additional GFCI protection is not required. Locking type receptacles are designed to hold the plug in place, ensuring that the connection remains stable and reducing the chances of exposure to live parts.

For equipment operating at low voltage, using outdoor receptacles, or in various other situations, GFCI protection would typically be required as a precaution, given the various safety concerns that accompany electrical installations, particularly in environments like carnivals where people gather in large numbers and where equipment may be exposed to the elements.