New York State Master Electrician Practice Exam

Which of the following is a requirement for equipment operating at over 600V in patient care areas?

1. Use of a dedicated circuit

2. Grounding of conductive surfaces

3. Installation of fuses

4. Use of modular cords

The correct answer is: Grounding of conductive surfaces

In healthcare facilities, especially in patient care areas, ensuring the safety of patients and medical staff is paramount. Equipment operating at over 600 volts presents significant risks, which is why specific requirements are established to protect against electrical hazards. Grounding of conductive surfaces is particularly crucial in these environments. It helps prevent the build-up of electrical charges that could pose a risk of shock or electrocution if a fault occurs. Proper grounding of all conductive parts of equipment ensures that, in the event of a fault, the electrical energy has a safe path to ground, reducing the likelihood of injury or death. While other measures, such as the use of dedicated circuits, fuses, and modular cords, can be important for various reasons, they do not specifically address the fundamental electrical safety requirement of grounding conductive surfaces. Grounding essentially mitigates the risk of electric shock by maintaining all conductive parts at the same electrical potential, which is vital when it comes to equipment used near patients. Therefore, grounding conductive surfaces stands out as a critical safety requirement in patient care areas for equipment operating above 600V.