Does 210.12(B)require outlets in a laundry room to be Arc-Fault protected?

Not the way I read it, unless the "laundry" happens to be in one of the rooms listed. It would have to be T/R

The laundry room is NOT included in the extensive list of rooms that require AFCI. Even if the "laundry room" is an alcove with folding doors off the hall, the receptacle for the laundry circuit would be for that room or area; and not for the hall.

The laundry room is NOT included in the extensive list of rooms that require AFCI. Even if the "laundry room" is an alcove with folding doors off the hall, the receptacle for the laundry circuit would be for that room or area; and not for the hall.

I have to agree, the laundry room is not required to be AFCI protected, it is not specifically identified in 210.12

Everyone seems to overlook what the AFCI is accually protecting.
210.12(B) the last line "installed to provide protection of the branch circuit", not the appliance itself. Case in point if you use an AFCI device (if they were availiable) you would have to install a metallic raceway method to the first outlet to protect the branch circuit. Sometimes you have to look at the intent of the requirement along with the requirement itself. Some inspectors are calling the laundry area a "laundry closet", and I could see where a laundry room could fall under the "or simular room", depending on who you ask. I am not requiring the laundry circuit to be AFCI protected, but I personally think it should be required.

Just my opinions
Neal Burdick
COT Inspector

I agree with Neil, it should be protected,but we are getting different views in our area, some do and some don't. Laundry closet is a good example and also a hall through to the garage sometimes has a washer and dryer. At this time we are not requiring it either but some counties in our area are.

Seems that the laundry is like the kitchen. Both areas do not require AFCI protection the way the code is written. Must be because of the area use, (appliances), that is.

It is likely we are really just talking about the laundry "receptacle" anyway since the lights are probably on a circuit that serves other rooms.

yep I agree.