Are isolated grounding-type receptacles allowed in patient care vicinities?

Isolated grounding-type receptacles are not permitted in patient care vicinities for several critical reasons centered around safety and reliability in medical environments. In these settings, the presence of medical equipment that relies on a stable and reliable grounding system is crucial. The risk involved with using isolated grounding can lead to unsafe conditions, as the isolation may not effectively protect against certain electrical faults or leakage, which are significant concerns when dealing with sensitive medical devices and patient safety.

Using properly grounded systems prevents the buildup of hazardous voltages that might occur due to faults in equipment, ensuring a safer environment for both patients and medical staff. Regulations and electrical codes emphasize the need for robust grounding practices in healthcare facilities to mitigate risks associated with electrical shock and ensure the consistent operation of critical medical equipment.

Thus, adherence to these safety standards means that isolated grounding-type receptacles are considered inappropriate in patient care areas where the integrity of the grounding system is paramount.