Would a receptacle located in a drop ceiling, to be used only when servicing the MRI machine (maybe for a portable light), require the redundant ground path?

Yes or no.
Why or why not.
Thanks in advance for any input.

517.13 B says all recpts in patient areas however there are exceptions for lights and switches not likely to come into contact with a patient. Tough question. I 'd say yes they must have redundant ground.

Nick, I would also say yes it would have to comply with art 517.13 (a) and (b)and have a redundant ground path,as the only exception is lighting at 7 1/2 feet,and switches, nothing about ceiling mounted receptacles

I admit that I am still scratching my head on this one.

I ran across this a couple of weeks ago. The thing that bugs me the most is - is the MRI room really an exam room? Is the patient really being examined by a doctor in the room, or is it just an x-ray room? Since the plans say "MRI exam room," so I went ahead and classified it as an exam room. I guess the person can be moved and manipulated while laying on the table there.

Then, the deal with the receptacle in the ceiling. I did as you both suggested. But I admit I'm still questioning myself here. But I didn't know what else I could do. Thanks for the info.

Nick,
On a little side issue. The N.E.C. is adopted by reference in the Florida Bldg. Code. The F.B.C. gives you a lot of room for judgement as to performance. If you feel that the performance is not at risk you can surely make the decision not put this recpt. on redundant ground.
When we go? to the I.B.C. in 2005 you'll have even more room to move as it's a real performance based code.

Thanks for the tip. I was always for going to the IBC's but I didn't know if it would ever happen. Is 2005 IBC a sure thing?

Nothing's forsure except death and taxes but they sat all looks good