Code Change Summary: A new code section was added to address receptacles installed in seating areas and other similar surfaces.

Almost every major airport now has mobile device charging areas. Sometimes there are receptacle pods built into the seating areas and other times there might be fixed in place countertops (similar to a bar) where receptacles are installed for travelers to sit and charge their devices. It’s also quite common to see receptacles built into furnishings like the table in a conference room.

The 2014 NEC^® now has code language to address these types of installations.

There are several UL Standards that address receptacles and receptacle assemblies for installation in countertops and work surfaces. In Section 406.5(E), the 2014 NEC^® has requirements for receptacles installed in countertops and similar work surfaces but does not differentiate between the two applications. Receptacle assemblies are subjected to different tests depending on whether a receptacle will be installed in a countertop (such as in a kitchen) or a work surface (such as a conference room table).

UL has standards that address testing of receptacles and GFCI receptacles installed in a work surface. They address the spillage of liquid on to receptacle outlets mounted on the desk or table but require spillage of only 8oz (1 cup) of liquid.

UL also has other standards that address testing of receptacles and GFCI receptacles installed in a countertop. They address the spillage of up to 32oz (1/2 gallon) of liquid on to the installed receptacle outlet assembly.

The work surface liquid spill test was originally developed to address a cup of liquid tipped over. The counter mounted test requirements address the larger quantity of liquid which could be expected for receptacles recessed into countertops located in kitchens or bathrooms.

The differences between the two applications will be made clear in the 2017 NEC^®. Since a receptacle assembly that was tested for countertop applications is subjected to a larger amount of spilled liquid, it is also suitable for installation in a work surface, but it doesn’t work the other way around.

A receptacle assembly tested only for a work surface is not permitted to be recessed into a kitchen counter.

Below is a preview of the NEC^®.  See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on the “free access” tab and select the applicable year of NFPA 70 (National Electrical code).