NATE Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps Practice Exam

The use of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is especially important when ____.

1. apprentice workers are asked to use power tools

2. more than one electric tool is plugged into an outlet

3. the cord of an electric tool is frayed or cracked

4. work is being done on wet surfaces

The correct answer is: work is being done on wet surfaces

The use of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is crucial when work is being done on wet surfaces because moisture significantly increases the risk of electrical shock. A GFCI is a life-saving device designed to detect imbalances in electrical current, which can happen when electricity flows through an unintended path, such as through a person. When working in wet conditions, the likelihood of water creating a conductive path for electricity increases, making it easier for a person to be shocked if they come into contact with an electrical source. The GFCI monitors the current flowing in and out of the circuit and cuts off the power when it senses a fault, greatly reducing the risk of serious injury or death from electrical shock. Thus, having a GFCI in place in these situations is a vital safety measure. Other scenarios, such as the presence of apprentice workers or frayed cords, are important safety considerations, but they do not elevate the immediate electrical shock risk as significantly as working on wet surfaces does.