Tamper Resistant Receptacles

The 2008 National Electrical Code® (NEC) Article 406.11 requires all new-construction residential receptacles be tamper-resistant — and for good reason.

Did you know that in the U.S., about 7 children per day are treated in ERs for receptacle-related incidents — more than 24,000 over 10 years?  (Based on 10 years of CPSC data)

Electrical outlets are usually installed at a height at or near a child’s eye level, and a child’s curiosity can draw them to explore, making electrical outlets a source of worry for many parents.

The chance of electrocution is small, but the results can be devastating.

A study conducted in 1997, by CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) found:

  • 86 percent of reported injuries involved children 1 to 4 years old
  • The highest frequency of home electrical injuries occurred at mealtimes
  • The most commonly used foreign objects inserted into outlets were keys and hairpins

Most of us are familiar with plastic outlet protectors.  The prongs fit directly into the outlet holes, preventing the insertion of foreign objects.  In a study conducted of 37 children in 1997 by the Biokinetics Research Laboratory of Temple University confirmed the reservations of many parents and their thoughts on the effectiveness of these devices.

  • 47 percent of 4-year-old and 31 percent of 2-year-olds could remove protectors with a round, flat face and two prongs
  • 47 percent of 4-year-old and 18 percent of 2-year-olds could remove protectors with a 3/16 inch thick oval face and a tapered side
  • 100 percent of 2-year-old and 4-year-olds could remove protectors with a 1/16 inch oval face and a flat side

Can you retrofit an older house with tamper-resistant receptacles?

Absolutely. Tamper-resistant receptacles install like standard ones and are completely interchangeable.

Contact Haskin Electric for a free estimate.