Where are 125-volt, single phase, 15 and 20 ampere outlets not required to be arc-fault protected?

Arc-fault protection is an important safety feature designed to reduce the risk of electrical fires caused by arc faults, which can occur in wiring or devices due to damaged insulation or loose connections. The requirements for where arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) are mandated vary according to the National Electrical Code (NEC) and local regulations.

In residential settings, bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms are all considered areas where arc faults pose a significant risk, hence requiring protection. Bedrooms specifically mandate AFCI protection to mitigate the risk while people are sleeping, as the potential for a fire to go unnoticed is higher. Kitchens require additional protection due to the presence of water and appliances that can cause short circuits or arc faults, making safety a primary concern. Living rooms, being central gathering spaces, also necessitate AFCI protection for similar fire safety reasons.

Hallways, however, typically do not have the same level of risk associated with electrical fires as rooms where appliances, technology, and multiple outlets are prevalent. This lack of risk, along with the fact that hallways often do not have as many outlets or devices, leads to the conclusion that AFCI protection is not a requirement in these areas. Thus, specifying that 125-volt, single phase