What protective measure is required for all equipment installed in Pool Zone 1?

In Pool Zone 1, which is the area immediately surrounding the pool, all equipment is required to be GFCI-protected to ensure safety. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection is critical because it detects ground faults—such as when a person comes into contact with water and an energized conductor—and interrupts the electrical circuit, reducing the risk of electric shock.

This requirement is in place due to the increased risk of electrical hazards in wet environments where water is present, especially in close proximity to where people swim or interact with the water. By mandating GFCI protection for all equipment in this zone, the National Electrical Code seeks to enhance safety for users and minimize the potential for serious accidents.

Other protective measures, while they may be relevant in different contexts, do not specifically address the unique electrical hazards presented in Pool Zone 1 as effectively as GFCI protection does.