Tamper resistent electrical outlets

[Robert Gaspy]

I am confused regarding tamper resistant electrical outlets - are they mandatory in new dwelling units now?

New house was built. I was told that all electrical outlets must be tamper resistant as per code in WA state? Even GFCI has to be tamper resistant?

[Gunnar Alquist]

I am confused regarding tamper resistant electrical outlets - are they mandatory in new dwelling units now? New house was built. I was told that all electrical outlets must be tamper resistant as per code in WA state? Even GFCI has to be tamper resistant?

Hi Robert,

I believe the requirement is/was new in the 2014 NEC. I don't know when TR showed up in the IRC. Is WA state enforcing the 2014 NEC? CA starts enforcing it Jan. 1, 2017. Call your local building department to find out what code is currently being enforced.

As I recall, 210.52 requires TR outlets at most interior and exterior locations, including garages, bathrooms & kitchens. Exceptions are for receptacle outlets for appliances that are generally not moved (my assumption would be dishwashers, refrigerators, etc.). I believe NFPA has a free online access to the code if you don't have one.

[Marc M]

Hi Robert,

I believe the requirement is/was new in the 2014 NEC. I don't know when TR showed up in the IRC. Is WA state enforcing the 2014 NEC? CA starts enforcing it Jan. 1, 2017. Call your local building department to find out what code is currently being enforced.

As I recall, 210.52 requires TR outlets at most interior and exterior locations, including garages, bathrooms & kitchens. Exceptions are for receptacle outlets for appliances that are generally not moved (my assumption would be dishwashers, refrigerators, etc.). I believe NFPA has a free online access to the code if you don't have one.

In my area, Los Angeles County, all of my projects requiring the installation of new or replacing receptacles requires them to be TR.
Wut's up Gunnar... how was your Christmas? (If you celebrate)

[Raymond Wand]

Those tamper proof outlets are a pain in the butt. Always difficult to plug something in.

[Jerry Peck]

Tamper-resistant receptacles came in the NEC with the 2008 NEC.

[Gunnar Alquist]

Oops. I found it in the 2011 NEC. It isn't 210.52, it's 406.12 in the 2011, 2014 and 2017. Looks like the IRC started requiring them in 2009.


In my area, Los Angeles County, all of my projects requiring the installation of new or replacing receptacles requires them to be TR.
Wut's up Gunnar... how was your Christmas? (If you celebrate)

That would explain why Marc said L.A. requires it.

Christmas was lovely, Marc. Thank you. I had a bit of a head cold, but not so bad that I didn't enjoy myself. And you?

[Marc M]

Oops. I found it in the 2011 NEC. It isn't 210.52, it's 406.12 in the 2011, 2014 and 2017. Looks like the IRC started requiring them in 2009.



That would explain why Marc said L.A. requires it.

Christmas was lovely, Marc. Thank you. I had a bit of a head cold, but not so bad that I didn't enjoy myself. And you?
Fantastic, thanks. My wife and I cleaned out the garage.. It's crazy the stuff you find when you start moving stuff around. lol
Actually, what "is" crazy is the number of times you re- buy some of the tools etc you thought were lost.

[BARRY ADAIR]

Tamper-resistant receptacles came in the NEC with the 2008 NEC.
correct for residential
2002 pediatric patient care areas
33177
now almost any area where children could be

[Gunnar Alquist]

My wife and I cleaned out the garage.

C'mon up and help me clean out mine! :cool:

- - - Updated - - -


Tamper-resistant receptacles came in the NEC with the 2008 NEC.

I didn't find it in the 2008. Must have still been looking in the wrong place.

In CA, that would put it in the 2010 California codes and enforced in 2011. (so confusing! :confused:)