The engineering company where I work has asked for input to improve safety within the facility. I submitted an issue informing them that our kitchen does not have GFCI’s on the outlets. They informed me that since this room does not have a sink it is not classified as a “kitchen” per the NEC. Yet, above the outlets is a plumbed coffee machine and a plumbed bottleless water dispenser which are next to a toaster and microwave. A refrigerator is also located in the small room.

Are there any requirements in the NEC to require GFCI’s in such areas (ie- with plumbed water)? Isn’t the definition of a kitchen in the NEC to exclude snack rooms with vending machines but not areas with plumbed water?

Any comments are welcome.