Oklahoma Electrical Practice Exam

What is the minimum ground wire size allowed in a hospital's critical care area adjacent to the patient vicinity?

1. #8 AWG

2. #10 AWG

3. #12 AWG

4. #14 AWG

The correct answer is: #10 AWG

In a hospital's critical care area, ensuring patient safety and minimizing electrical hazards are paramount. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies grounding requirements, particularly in healthcare facilities, to protect patients and staff from electrical shock and ensure proper functioning of medical equipment. The minimum grounded conductor size specified for critical care areas adjacent to patient vicinities is #10 AWG. This size strikes a balance between providing adequate protection and flexibility in electrical systems typical in such sensitive environments. Utilizing a #10 AWG wire ensures that the grounding system can effectively handle fault currents without excessive heating, thus enhancing the safety of both patients and medical personnel. Choosing a larger gauge, such as #8 AWG, while still providing adequate grounding, is often not necessary and may lead to over-specification. On the other hand, using a smaller gauge, such as #12 AWG or #14 AWG, does not meet the NEC's stringent requirements for critical care areas, exposing patients to potential risks from electrical faults. This careful consideration of wire sizing reflects the emphasis on safety and reliability in critical healthcare environments.