GFCI limitations are removed for both temporary and permanent feeders.

Definitions

GCFI: Stands for Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter. When there is an unbalanced current as a result of one of the conductors coming into contact with a grounded object (such as through a person’s body), the receptacle automatically shuts off.

The Code: Section 215.9 and 215.10

215.9 Ground-Fault Circuit-Interrupter Protection for Personnel. Feeders shall be permitted to be protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter installed in a readily accessible location in lieu of the provisions for such interrupters as specified in 210.8 and 590.6(A).

215.10 Ground-fault Protection of Equipment.

Exception No. 3: If temporary feeder conductors are used to connect a generator to a facility for repair, maintenance, or emergencies, ground-fault protection of equipment shall not be required. Temporary feeders without ground-fault protection shall be permitted for the time period necessary, but shall not exceed 90 days.

215.9 – The exception that permits branch circuits to be GFCI protected upstream is extended beyond 15 and 20 amp receptacle branch circuits.

215.10 – Exception No. 3 removed the requirement for GFP in temporary feeders for repair, maintenance, or emergencies.

Important Notes

215.9

  • Removing the limitations in 215.9 provides better correlation with 210.8
  • Consideration should be given to the possibility that a GFCI might be monitoring several branch circuits and will de-energize  all branch circuits in response to a line to ground fault from one branch circuit.

215.10

  • An example of the use of 215.10’s exception would be a portable generator connected to a facilities power system during a power outage or maintenance.
  • GFP of equipment is required for each feeder disconnect rated 1000 amperes or more and installed on solidly grounded wye electrical systems of more than 150 volts to ground (not exceeding 600 volts phase-to-phase)