Tamper resistant outlets

[Don L. Powell]

I am confused about the new code for tamper resistant outlets. Do all GFCI outlets need to be tamper resistant? Do the outlets for the disposal, dishwasher, laundry sink, washer, refrigerator, etc. need to be tamper resistant? Our city recently adopted the 2009 code and I need to know this information for sure. Thanks,
Don Powell, El Paso, TX

[Joe Funderburk, CMI]

2009 IRC E4002.14 Tamper-resistant receptacles. In areas specified in
Section E3901.1, 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles
shall be listed tamper-resistant receptacles.

Commentary: Section 3901.1 addresses all 15- and 20-amp 125-volt
receptacles in a dwelling; therefore all such devices
must be listed tamper-resistant receptacle devices.
These receptacle devices have an internal mechanism
that blocks access to the plug prong openings
except when a plug is inserted into the receptacle. The
intent is to protect children who often insert objects into
receptacles out of curiosity. The author recalls more
than one experience where, as a youngster, a bobby
pin or nail was inserted into a receptacle and fortunately,
he lived to tell about it.

The contact openings (slots) in receptacles pose a
shock or electrocution hazard for anyone who purposely
or accidentally inserts a metallic object into
such openings in a receptacle. The Consumer Product
Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that there are
approximately 3,900 injuries treated by hospital emergency
rooms every year that are the result of shock or
burns from receptacles. Children are the most at risk
because of their curiosity and lack of knowledge of the
danger and nearly one-third of the reported injuries occur
to children. Tamper-resistant receptacles were developed
to reduce injuries and are now required for
nearly all receptacle locations. Obviously, the intent is
to require tamper-resistant receptacles in all locations
where there is a possibility of tampering. This section
applies to 125-volt, 15- and 20-amp receptacles only.

A typical tamper-resistant receptacle is shown in
Commentary Figure E4002.14. Note the embossed
“TR” on the face of the receptacle to indicate that it is
different from a standard receptacle. Inserting a two prong
(or three prong) plug into a tamper-resistant receptacle
is no different than it is for a standard receptacle.
Mechanisms within the receptacle sense that the
two parallel prongs are being inserted simultaneously,
which unlocks an internal shutter to the electrical contacts.
If the internal mechanism senses only one slot
being penetrated, such as with a screwdriver, nail or
other object, the shutter does not release to open the
slot to the electrical contacts. Each receptacle manufacturer
has developed its own proprietary shutter
mechanisms to comply with the operation requirements.

It would be easier for installers to use “TR” receptacles
in all locations rather than trying to determine
what locations, if any, are exempt. Based on the extensive
coverage of Section E3901.1, it is hard to determine
that there are any exempt locations.

[Robert J. OConnor]

Originally Posted by dpowell4

Our city recently adopted the 2009 code and I need to know this information for sure.

The IRC or NEC works as a "guide" for home inspectors. But if you need to know for sure then you have to contact the city ... they may not have adopted the latest model codes (some are several cycles behind) and there may be state or city amendments to the adopted versions of the IRC or NEC.

JMO & 2-Nickels ...

[Robert Meier]

Under the 2008 NEC, all receptacles in a dwelling are required to be TR. That includes, GFCI, behind the refrig, basement, attic and all outdoor receptacles, etc. Receptacles installed in wet locations, such as outdoors, are required to be listed as WR (or weather resistant) as well as TR.

The 2011 NEC has relaxed some of the requirements for TR receptacles in dwellings.