2008 NEC Tamper-Resistant Code Means “Real Safety”:

Approximately 2,400 children receive emergency room treatment every year for injuries caused by inserting objects into electrical receptacles, according to U.S. Consumer Product Safety

Commission (CPSC) data. This equates to about seven children each day. Injuries range from electric shock to first-, second- and third-degree burns. And, though rare, some cases prove fatal.

In response to these statistics the National Electrical Code® (NEC) has been revised to include are quirement for all residential receptacles, or outlets, to be tamper-resistant.

• The revision takes effect with the 2008 NEC, and states and municipalities will have to adopt the Code.

• NEC Article 406.11 states that all 125-volt. 15- and 20-ampere receptacles shall be listed tamper-resistant receptacles.

• The new Code will affect all new construction installations for single- and multifamily homes.

• Historical adoption rates indicate about 50 percent of the states will likely adopt the Code in 2008, and 80 percent will likely adopt by 2009.

• CPSC data indicate that about 71 percent of electrical incidents occur at home, with adult supervision typically present.

• It’s estimated that 89 percent of injuries occur in children less than six years old, and toddlers carry the greatest risk.

• Children insert a wide variety of metal objects into receptacles, including: paper clips, pens, safety pins, screws and nails, tools, wire, forks, tweezers, hair pins, keys, knives, coins and more.

• The two most common objects inserted are keys and hairpins – items children can access easily that parents don’t often consider dangerous.

• CPSC data indicate that about 94 percent of injuries involve burns. Pediatric burns can be particularly serious, because the skin is thin and offers little resistance to electric flow or heat.

• Tamper-resistant receptacles have built-in shutter systems that prevent foreign objects from touching electrically live components when they’re inserted into the slots.

• Bent, damaged, or burred plug blades can make insertion more difficult. Examine and straighten or replace substandard plug blades to ensure proper function

All 15 and 20 amp, 125 and 250 volt non-locking receptacles shall be listed as weather resistant type per NEC®Article 406.8, Receptacles in Damp and Wet Locations.

Code Basics 406.8

• Receptacles installed outdoors and other wet /damp locations are subject to demanding temperature variations, direct sunlight and unusual mechanical abuse than those in a typical dry environments.

• Weatherproof covers do not offer complete environmental protection.

• Weather resistance increases corrosion resistance, cold impact, resistance to ultraviolet and water exposure and effects of aging.

• Damp locations include receptacles installed outdoors and locations requiring a weatherproof enclosure. • Listed devices are required to have a “WR” marking on the face visible when installed.

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