Final answer:
GFCI protection is required for receptacles installed within 6 feet of the edge of sinks. This is mandated by the National Electrical Code to prevent electrical shocks in areas where water is present, as it could increase the risk of electricity leakage.
Step-by-step explanation:
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is crucial for safety in areas where water and electricity are in close proximity, such as kitchens and bathrooms. By design, GFCIs monitor the balance of electrical current moving through a circuit and rapidly cuts off the power when a fault is detected, which usually happens when there is a discrepancy between the currents in the live/hot and neutral wires indicating a leakage current.
For receptacles installed near water sources like sinks, the National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that they must be GFCI protected if they are installed within 6 feet of the edge of the sink. This requirement is in place to reduce the risk of electric shock, as the proximity to water significantly increases the likelihood of current leakage potentially resulting in an electrical hazard.
Although GFCIs can interrupt a circuit in response to leakage currents greater than 5 milliamperes, even a well-grounded circuit will trigger a GFCI if leakage is detected, ensuring the safety of individuals around potential electric shock risks. In essence, GFCIs are a protective measure installed in homes and buildings to safeguard against electrical accidents in high-risk areas.