Tamper-resistant electrical outlets operate like regular outlets with an added safety feature that that helps protect children from electrical shocks and burns.
The National Electric Code (NEC)
The NEC is the National Electrical Code, known to electricians and local electrical contractors as the minimum electrical design, standards and regulations, provides practical safeguards from the hazards that arise from using electricity for homeowners, local electricians, property, and animals.
How does the tamper-resistant electrical receptacle meet NEC requirements?
The NEC is considered the benchmark for safe electrical installations.
The NEC requires local electrical contractors when working on new or renovated homes to install tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles.
Electrical receptacles have spring-loaded shutters that close off the slots or openings contact. When an extension cord is inserted into the receptacle, both springs are compressed and then open to allow the metal prongs to make contact and create an electrical circuit. The mechanical process of having both springs compressed at the same time makes the outlet tamper resistant and safe. So, if a child tries to insert a foreign object into the outlet, the shutters do not open and there is no contact with electricity.
Why require tamper-resistant electrical receptacles?
Simply using receptacle caps on electrical outlets is not necessarily sufficient protection for your children. Receptacle caps can be removed and lost. The receptacle caps can be a choking hazard.
In 2006, about 1,800 children under the age 14 received treatment at a hospital emergency room due to electrical shock or burns caused by outlet or receptacle.
As a licensed Master Electrician in Texas including McKinney, Plano, Frisco and Allen, Nisat Electric will be delighted to help you make your home a safer place for your children.
Do homes without children require tamper resistant receptacles?
Whether the home is your own or rented on a temporary basis, the answer is Yes. Tamper resistant receptacle installation is required.
If you don’t have child living with you, children of relatives and friends will be protected when visiting your house. In addition, exposure to electrical shock and burn accidents are not limited to a children.
We can help! Call Nisat Electric at (214) 536-5555!
