Change Summary

• Requirements for tamper-resistant receptacles were expanded to mobile homes, preschools and elementary education facilities, as well as other locations where small children are likely to congregate.
• TR requirements were expanded to 250-volt receptacles as well as 125-volt receptacles.

Expert Analysis 

One of the first changes involved an expansion of the voltage rating to 250-volts for nonlocking-type receptacles in certain locations that will be required to be of the tamper-resistant type. Receptacles rated at 250-volts are commonly used for air-conditioning and heating units in dwelling units, guest rooms and guest suites of hotels and motels as well as other locations. Expanding the TR receptacle requirements to 250-volts for the same locations as required by 125-volt rated receptacles will enhance and further reduce the number of shock and burn injuries to small children.

For dwelling units, all 15- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250- volt nonlocking-type receptacles in the areas specified at 550.13 were added to receptacles requiring tamperresistant protection. This requirement was expanded to include areas specified at 550.13, along with areas specified at 210.52, to bring TR receptacle requirements to mobile and manufactured homes.

Finally, the areas and locations where TR receptacles are now required was expanded to include areas such as preschools and elementary education facilities, dormitories, business offices, corridors, waiting rooms, and the like, in clinics, medical and dental offices and outpatient facilities. The areas now requiring TR receptacles would also include assembly occupancies including places of awaiting transportation, gymnasiums, skating rinks, and auditoriums.

A new informational note was also added providing information from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) concerning dimensional requirements for receptacles rated up to 60 amperes and 600 volts as well as dimensions for wall plates. The informational note identifies certain receptacles that would be included in this expanded TR receptacle requirements (see NEMA Standards Publication ANSI/ NEMA WD 6-2016). The TR receptacle requirements are aimed at common receptacles found in the locations specified in 406.12 and are not intended to apply to special configurations of receptacles that may be required for specific dedicated equipment where tamper-resistant receptacles are not produced or available.

Leviton tamper-resistant receptacles, have proven effective in preventing electrical injuries resulting from foreign objects being inserted into receptacles. Available residential and commercial grade in 15- and 20-Amp, 125-Volt, Duplex and Decora® in several colors.