What is necessary for a receptacle located near swimming pools?

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection is essential for receptacles located near swimming pools due to safety concerns related to electrical shock hazards in wet environments. Swimming pools pose a significant risk for electrical accidents because water is a good conductor of electricity. The GFCI device is designed to quickly cut off the electrical supply if it detects any imbalance between the outgoing and incoming current, which may indicate a leakage current through a person who has come into contact with water and electricity.

This protective measure is mandated by the National Electrical Code (NEC) for areas where electricity and water are in closer proximity, ensuring increased safety for pool users. It is specifically required for receptacles that are located within certain distances of the pool, promoting a safer environment for swimming and other water-related activities.

While weatherproof ratings and certain voltage specifications may be relevant for outdoor installations, they do not address the critical safety aspect of protecting individuals from electric shock, which is the primary consideration for receptacles near pools.