Keep Kids Safe with Tamper Resistant Receptacles
Learn more about how these specially designed outlets can prevent electrical injury in children.
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), an average of 2,850 children are injured annually due to electrical receptacles. Children can insert objects like bobby pins, keys, or their fingers into receptacles causing electrical shocks and burns. As a result, it was established in the 2008 National Electrical Code® (NEC®) that new and renovated homes have Tamper Resistant Receptacles installed to reduce injuries.
Tamper Resistant Receptacles, or TRRs are specially designed to prevent anything other than the two prongs of an electrical plug from being inserted. Should a child attempt to put a paperclip into a TRR for example, the paper clip will not connect, preventing electrical shock and burns. Additionally, TRRs are more effective than the plastic caps often used by caregivers, which a Temple University study found can still be removed by children as young as 2 in under 25 seconds.
As of July 1, the 2017 National Electrical Code® (NEC®) requires TRRs to be placed in schools, business offices, hotels, health facilities, and more. While this doesn’t currently apply to South Carolina which adheres to the 2014 NEC, it illustrates the importance of TRRs in protecting children from electrical outlet injuries in and outside the home.
If you live in an older home that does not have TRRs and have small children, consider installing TRRs for their safety. The cost to replace your home’s outlets is minimal compared with insuring the safety of your little ones. If you are interested in replacing outlets in your home, as well as addressing other electrical concerns, contact Walkup Electrical in Florence to schedule your appointment. Our electricians have the knowledge, skills, and experience to assist homeowners and businesses with all their electrical needs.