What are Tamper Resistant Receptacles (TRRs)?
Though they look like standard outlets, only TRRs include a built-in shutter system that prevents foreign objects from being inserted. Only a plug that applies simultaneous, equal pressure to both slots will disengage the cover plates, allowing access to the contact points. Without this synchronized pressure, the cover plates remain closed, preventing the insertion of foreign objects.
The curiosity of kids knows no boundaries and sometimes leads to dangerous behaviors. Located in practically every room in every house throughout the United States, electrical outlets and receptacles represent a constant and real danger wherever young children are present.
Although not widely used in homes until recently, TRRs have been required in hospital pediatric care facilities for more than 20 years. In fact, TRRs have proven to be so effective that the National Electrical Code ® (NEC) now requires them to be installed in all new home construction. Existing homes can be easily retrofitted with TRRs using the same installation guidelines that apply to standard receptacles. TRRs should only be installed by a licensed electrician and should bear a label of a nationally recognized, independent testing lab such as UL, Intertek, or CSA.
TRRs by The Numbers
- Each year 2,400 children suffer severe shock and burns resulting from inserting objects into the slots o f electrical receptacles. That’s nearly seven children a day.
- It is estimated that 6-12 child fatalities result from children tampering electrical receptacles.
- Installing a TRR in a newly constructed home is only about 50 cents more than a traditional receptacle.
- Existing homes can be retrofitted with TRRs for as little as $2.00 per outlet.
