What type of receptacle is permitted to be used where no grounding means exists?

In situations where no grounding means is available, a non-grounding-type receptacle is permitted for use. This type of receptacle is designed for applications where a grounding wire is not present, making it suitable for older installations or areas that do not meet modern electrical codes requiring grounding for safety.

Non-grounding receptacles typically have only two slots rather than the three slots found in grounding-type receptacles. This design is intentional; it accommodates devices that do not require grounding or that are specifically rated for use in non-grounded environments. Using a non-grounding-type receptacle in these circumstances aligns with safety standards, as it prevents the use of grounding-type appliances that could lead to potentially dangerous situations if improperly connected to a system without grounding.

Options involving grounding-type receptacles or devices that require grounding would not be appropriate, as they assume the presence of a reliable grounding path. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) receptacles provide a different kind of safety feature but still require appropriate grounding in certain installations to function optimally. Similarly, smart receptacles, which often include advanced features, typically rely on grounding connections to ensure user safety and device functionality, and thus should not be used where grounding is absent.