If a receptacle is installed in countertop space A in a restaurant kitchen, does it require GFCI protection?

In locations such as a restaurant kitchen, receptacles installed in countertop spaces are generally required to have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection to enhance safety. GFCI protection is crucial in wet or damp areas, as it helps prevent electrical shock by quickly disconnecting power if a ground fault is detected.

Countertop spaces in a kitchen are often exposed to moisture from food preparation, cleaning, and spills. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies GFCI requirements for kitchens, particularly for receptacles that may be used for food preparation, cooking, or potentially subject to wet conditions.

GFCI protection is not conditional upon the specific use or the time of day; it is a blanket requirement given the nature of kitchen settings. Regardless of whether specific appliances are plugged into the receptacle or only during certain hours of operation, the inherent risk associated with water and electricity necessitates comprehensive safety measures, thus making GFCI protection mandatory in these areas.