Home > National Electrical Code > Code Q&A

Code Q&A

Aug 20, 2009 4:35 PM, By Mike Holt

Q. What are the GFCI requirements for vending machines?

A. According to 422.51, cord-and-plug-connected vending machines must include a GFCI as an integral part of the attachment plug, or within 12 in. of the attachment plug. Older machines that aren’t so equipped must be con¬nected to a GFCI-protected outlet. The term “vending machine” means a self-service device that dispenses products or merchandise and requires coin, paper currency, token, card, key, or receipt of payment by other means.

Because electric vending machines are often located in damp or wet locations in public places, and are used by people standing on the ground, reliance on an equipment grounding conductor for protection against electrocution is insufficient.