Are GFCI protection requirements applicable to all outdoor outlets?

GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection requirements are indeed applicable to all outdoor outlets. This requirement is in place because outdoor settings often expose electrical circuits to wet conditions, which increases the risk of electrical shock. The NEC mandates that all outdoor outlets have GFCI protection to enhance safety for users who may be using appliances or equipment in these environments.

The reasoning behind this requirement is that GFCIs are designed to detect ground faults—situations where electricity is leaking from the circuit. In outdoor areas where water is present, the likelihood of such faults increases, making GFCIs essential for minimizing the risk of severe electrical shock or electrocution.

While there are specific requirements for GFCIs in other locations like kitchens and bathrooms, these do not negate the necessity for GFCI protection in all outdoor outlets. Therefore, every outdoor receptacle must comply with the GFCI rule set by the NEC for enhanced safety in potentially hazardous conditions.