In commercial kitchens, the combination of a wet environment, stainless steel equipment, conductive surfaces, and combustible materials increases the risk of electrical shock incidents and fires. Adherence to sanitation standards necessitates the mobility of cooking and cleaning equipment, leading to the use of plug-and-cord connections. The cords used for this purpose are susceptible to damage over time and exposure to moisture, making them vulnerable to ground faults and shock risks. Internal components of appliances can degrade with time and exposure, which also increases the risk of ground faults.
To help protect personnel and equipment in commercial kitchens and other similar applications, the National Electrical Code (NEC) has revised GFCI requirements. NEC 210.8 (B) requires non-dwelling units to include GFCI protection for branch circuit receptacles in all kitchens, buffet serving areas for food preparation/beverage preparation, and when receptacles or appliances are within six feet of a sink. In previous versions of the NEC, this requirement was limited to single-phase, <50A circuits. Now, the NEC requires this to cover 3-phase circuits <100A when the voltage from line to ground is less than 150V (NOTE: The most common electrical circuits used in commercial kitchens are 120 VAC, 240 VAC, and 208 VAC; which all have line-to-ground voltages under 150V). This means the NEC 210.8 (B) requirements impacts equipment that previously did not require GFCI protection when using a receptacle, such as a 208V input fryer, ovens, dishwashers, and more.
Additionally, NEC 210.8 (D) requires GFCI protection for an array of appliances rated 150V or less to ground and 60A or less (1 or 3 phase) regardless of the location and regardless if the appliance is hard-wired or installed with a receptacle. Some key appliance types listed in this requirement that are found in commercial Kitchens are listed below:
PowerGuard was designed to be an optimal choice for ground fault protection for these applications and appliances to keep personnel safe and facilities compliant with the latest codes.
Designed to fit the needs of commercial kitchens
Bender PowerGuard GFCIs are rated up to 100A and can handle loads that GFCI receptacles and breakers cannot, offering models to cover all voltage appliances in a commercial kitchen.
Protects personnel and equipment
Quickly detects ground faults and interrupts the flow of electricity, safeguarding personnel from shock risk.
Reduces maintenance costs
Features automatic self-test and end-of-life detection.
Maintains compliance with latest electrical codes
GFCIs are required on a wide array of appliances and receptacles under latest NEC codes.
| Name | Category | Size | Language | Timestamp | D-/B-Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Guidelines (US) | Technical Information | 1.9 MB | EN | 2020/06/1515.06.2020 | |
| Overview Brochure | Product Overviews | 10.3 MB | EN | 2023/10/0202.10.2023 | |
| Bender Industry Applications | Market Segment Brochures | 5.9 MB | EN | 2024/09/0404.09.2024 | |
| PowerGuard Flyer | Flyers | 1.2 MB | EN | 2024/10/0101.10.2024 |
