What precaution should be taken when installing receptacles in bathrooms?

The requirement that receptacles in bathrooms must be GFCI protected is vital for ensuring user safety. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) devices are designed to quickly cut off the power supply in the event of a ground fault, which can occur in wet environments like bathrooms. Given the high risk of electrical shock due to the presence of water, the use of GFCI protection minimizes this danger significantly.

Receptacles located in bathrooms are particularly susceptible to moisture, which can lead to more dangerous electrical conditions. By implementing GFCI protection, any faults that create an unintentional path for current can be detected rapidly, reducing the risk of severe electrical shock or electrocution.

While other options may suggest various alternative installation practices, they do not align with the current safety standards and best practices in electrical installations. For instance, while it might be tempting to think that installing receptacles above sink levels would suffice or that standard receptacles could be used if they are positioned far enough away, these approaches do not address the inherent risk posed by the combination of electricity and water in a bathroom setting. Thus, the most effective precaution remains the requirement for GFCI protection for all receptacles in these environments.