Electrical Code Compliance for Commercial Buildings

Staying compliant with commercial electrical codes keeps people safe, systems running, and businesses protected. However, with codes changing every few years, it may feel like compliance is moving out of reach. You need to know what the regulations are and how to apply them without disrupting project timelines or operations.

Explore electrical code compliance requirements and best practices to ensure power system reliability.

GFCI Requirements in Commercial Buildings

A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) prevents electric shock. It monitors the flow of electricity and cuts off power within milliseconds when it detects an imbalance. This fast action helps prevent injuries or fatalities from electric shock.

The National Electric Code (NEC) requires GFCI protection across various commercial installations. The code specifies that 125-volt to 250-volt, single-phase, 50-ampere and less receptacles installed in commercial and industrial settings must have GFCI protection when placed in specific locations.

Additionally, 150 or fewer to ground, three-phase, 100 amperes or less must be GFCI-protected. These protections must include outdoor outlets rated up to 250V and receptacles within 6 feet of sinks, tubs, or similar water sources.

Common commercial GFCI locations include:

• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Rooftop and outdoor outlets
• Garages
• Laundry areas
• Bathtubs and shower stalls
• Service bays
• Crawl spaces
• Unfinished basements
• Indoor damp and wet areas

Local codes may expand these zones further. For example, hospitality or health care facilities may require GFCIs near patient care areas or janitorial sinks.

Code Requirements for Electrical Outlets in Commercial Spaces

Proper electrical outlet placement in commercial buildings ensures spaces are functional, safe, and can support operations without overloading circuits or relying on unsafe workarounds. Proper outlet planning reduces fire risk, supports equipment reliability, and improves user convenience.

Outlet requirements vary depending on the type of space, its use, and the electrical load. However, some common standards include:

• General office areas: For office areas, outlets must be installed so that no point along the floor line of any wall is more than 6 feet from an outlet. Each wall 2 feet or wider requires at least one receptacle. Additionally, outlets must be installed along the wall without being obscured by furniture or other obstructions.
• Commercial kitchens and breakrooms: In commercial kitchens and breakrooms, all outlets within 6 feet of sinks must be GCFI-protected. Every countertop section 12 inches or wider must have a receptacle above it, and the socket should be installed so that no section of the countertop is more than 4 feet away.
• Retail spaces: For retail spaces, outlets are required along the walls and display areas at regular intervals. Ensure no point is more than 6 feet from an outlet.
• Warehouses and industrial spaces: In warehouses and industrial spaces, receptacles must be installed so that no point along the floor line of any usable wall space is more than 6 feet away. In damp or wet locations, outlets must be GFCI-protected. Additionally, each outlet should be connected to a ground busbar in the distribution board, and all equipment grounding should be of adequate size.

Commercial Low Voltage Wiring Code Requirements

Low-voltage systems — typically defined as 50 volts or less — might not carry the same shock risk as high-voltage systems, but they’re still subject to code requirements to ensure performance, safety, and reliability.

Low-voltage wiring covers the following systems:

• Data and voice networks
• Security systems
• Audio/visual and intercom systems
• Lighting control systems
• Fire alarm systems
• Backup power systems

Here’s how cabling should be installed, protected, separated, and labeled, depending on the system type:

• Separation from power circuits: Class 2 and Class 3 cables must be separated by physical barriers or specific distances from power wiring. Shared conduits or raceways are generally not permitted unless cables are rated accordingly.
• Firestopping and pathway requirements: Low-voltage cables that penetrate walls, floors, and ceilings must be installed with attention to fire resistance. All penetrations must be sealed with approved firestopping materials to maintain the rating of the barrier.
• Labeling: Standards from the NEC and the Telecommunications Industry Association recommend clear and concise labeling. System schematics and as-built documentation are essential for ongoing service and compliance audits.
• Inspection and testing: Low-voltage systems should be tested to meet applicable standards. Inspection includes verifying proper installation, cable and wire connections, and operation of safety devices.

Commercial Electrical Installations Best Practices

Commercial electrical systems are only as reliable as the practices used to design, install, and maintain them. Here are six techniques to ensure performance, safety, and efficiency.

1. Use UL Solutions Listed Materials and Devices

Start with products that meet UL Solutions requirements. These products have undergone testing and are certified they be manufactured in compliance with safety requirements.

Using certified parts also ensures performance consistency and a smoother inspection process. Products without a recognized listing can trigger regulatory issues or lead to early system failure. Use only listed breakers, receptacles, conduit, and cabling, and verify product certifications.

2. Balance Loads and Label Panel Boards

Unbalanced electrical panels can lead to:

• Equipment overheating
• Breaker tripping
• Increased energy loss

Balancing loads optimizes system efficiency and prolongs equipment life. Clearly labeling panelboards makes maintenance, expansion, or troubleshooting faster and safer.

3. Install Surge Protection

Voltage spikes can damage sensitive equipment or shorten its lifespan, especially in settings with fluctuating loads or risk factors like lightning or grid switching. Best practices include:

• Installing surge protection devices (SPDs) at main distribution panels and critical subpanels.
• Using outlets and power strips with SPD features.
• Regularly testing or replacing SPDs to ensure they’re functional.

4. Maintain Detailed Documentation

Well-documented electrical systems are easier to troubleshoot, expand, and inspect. Maintain clear records that include:

• As-built drawings
• Panel schedules
• Load calculations
• Inspection logs
• Equipment manuals and warranties

5. Invest in Routine Testing and Maintenance

Routine testing ensures ongoing protection of your systems. Building teams should document testing cycles and ensure replacements are installed when devices fail or age.

Some commercial facilities can benefit from integrated monitoring systems that detect fault conditions or failed devices. For example, load bank testing or remote asset monitoring solutions offer visibility into system health and help teams maintain compliance without relying on manual checks.

6. Partner With a Commercial Power System Expert

A power system company brings specialized expertise and understands commercial code requirements. They know how to design systems that pass inspection and support daily operations. They can also help future-proof your space to simplify the addition of new technologies or accommodate expansions.

Certified partners can deal with complex installations, including:

• Generator installation and maintenance: They ensure proper transfer switch sizing, load management, and compliance with backup power requirements.
• Automatic transfer switches and energy storage integration: Specialists can align code requirements for emergency and optional standby systems while supporting sustainability goals.
• Low voltage and life safety systems: They can integrate fire alarms, access control, and data systems to meet NEC and local codes.
• Load bank testing and remote monitoring: They support preventive maintenance, uptime, and system diagnostics to optimize uptime.

Keep Commercial Power Systems Code Compliant With Thompson Power Systems

At Thompson Power Systems, we help commercial building owners meet code requirements and maintain reliability. We sell and install backup power systems built around your electrical load, compliance standards, and safety protocols. From generators to automatic transfer switches and integrated energy storage, our solutions support power needs and regulatory obligations.

With over 65 years of experience, our local teams provide hands-on support, responsive service, and extended coverage to keep operations on track. Contact us today to learn how we can help improve system performance while staying compliant with evolving standards.