Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are required on construction site power outlets primarily to protect workers from:
Explanation
A ground-fault circuit interrupter compares the current going out with the current coming back and opens the circuit within milliseconds when the difference reaches a few thousandths of an ampere - the amount leaking to earth through a damaged cord, a wet housing, or a worker. It exists for the shock and for nothing else. An overcurrent device answers (a), and it trips at tens of amperes, far above the current that stops a heart. Arc flash (c) is a live-work hazard controlled by de-energising, guarding and arc-rated clothing. A surge protector answers (d), which is about the equipment rather than the person. On a construction site the employer must provide GFCI protection on temporary 120-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles, or run a written assured equipment grounding conductor programme instead.
Law Reference: 29 CFR 1926.404(b)(1)(ii)-(iii); 8 CCR §2405.3This topic, taught in full in the CSLB Law & Business guide. CSLB Law & Business — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $24.99 · 14-day refund →
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