Master Electrician Practice Exam

Conductors leading to a gasoline motor fuel dispensing pump are required to be equipped with which of the following?

1. A fuse

2. A switch

3. A timer

4. A circuit breaker

The correct answer is: A switch

In the context of gasoline motor fuel dispensing pumps, it is crucial to ensure safety and to facilitate the control of power to the equipment. A switch is required because it allows the operator to turn off the power to the dispensing pump immediately in case of an emergency or to perform maintenance safely. Having a switch accessible at the dispensing location meets safety requirements that are specifically designed to minimize risk. This complies with the National Electrical Code (NEC), which emphasizes the importance of providing a means to quickly disconnect electrical power to equipment, especially in environments handling flammable liquids such as gasoline. The other options, while important in different contexts, do not fulfill the specific requirement for a means of control at the dispensing pump. For instance, a fuse or circuit breaker serves to protect electrical circuits from overload or short circuits, but it does not provide immediate control over the pump's operation. A timer is typically used for automated operations but does not enhance the operator's ability to control power in urgent situations. Therefore, the presence of a switch is essential and mandatory for safety in fueling operations.