Not to ruffle any feathers here, but:
What are the modes of failure possible with an EDF? I don't see much possibility of the fountain itself being energized through a minor fault in the compressor, the push buttons are only water valves, and the water is not in direct contact with any energized parts. I know that there is always something that can go wrong, but I'm with The OSHA professor, the GFCI is more of a problem.
Where I feel the need for GFCI protection is where the possibility exists for contact with water, ground, and energized parts. I just don't feel that all three are here in normal circumstances, and a solid ground is all thats needed.
I have been in labs where the heating elements in water baths have developed an electrical leakage to the bath and I measured 80 volts to the receptacle ground, good place for GFCI.
