What should be installed in residential garages to meet safety standards?

GFCI outlets, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets, are essential in residential garages to meet safety standards because they provide protection against electrical shock. Garages often have a higher risk of moisture exposure due to water sports equipment, vehicles, and other activities that could introduce water into the area. GFCI outlets are designed to detect ground faults—situations where electricity escapes the intended path—and shut off the power quickly to prevent electric shock.

Installing standard outlets or high voltage outlets does not offer this level of protection and could lead to increased risk in environments that might be damp or where tools could malfunction. Surge protection devices, while beneficial for protecting equipment from power surges, do not prevent shocks like GFCI outlets do. Therefore, using GFCI outlets is crucial in all areas of the home that may be exposed to water and that require additional safety measures.