New York State Master Electrician Practice Exam

What stipulation exists regarding detachable fittings used in patient care areas?

1. Must be approved fittings

2. Must be non-detachable

3. Must be metal only

4. Must be painted finishes

The correct answer is: Must be approved fittings

Detachable fittings used in patient care areas are required to be approved fittings to ensure safety and reliability in environments where patient health is paramount. The approval of fittings typically means they have undergone rigorous testing and meet specific standards that ensure they function correctly and safely under the conditions found in healthcare settings. In patient care areas, the risk of electrical shock or malfunction can have serious consequences, making it essential that any electrical fittings utilized meet the necessary safety regulations and operational standards established by organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Fittings that are not approved could pose risks such as failures during operation, which could lead to equipment malfunction or hazards for both patients and healthcare workers. This standard helps maintain a safe working environment and protects the integrity of medical devices used in these sensitive areas. Detachable fittings that are not non-detachable do not contribute the same level of reliability, nor do they have to comply with metal-only construction, and the requirement for painted finishes does not specifically correspond to safety standards. Therefore, the stipulation for these fittings emphasizes the need for their approval rather than specifications regarding material or finish.