What Is a Tamper-Resistant Receptacle?
A Tamper-Resistant Receptacle is an electrical outlet with spring-loaded shutters inside its slots. The shutters stay closed when an object presses against only one slot, which helps prevent unintended contact with energized parts. The shutters open when a matching plug applies pressure to the slots at the same time during normal use.
Quick Facts About Tamper-Resistant Receptacle
Category
Electrical receptacle
Used for
Blocking unintended slot access
Common confusion
Not a GFCI device
Also called
TR Receptacle, Tamper-resistant outlet
Often discussed with
Outlet Installation
Key Takeaways About Tamper-Resistant Receptacle
- Internal shutters cover the contact openings.
- Matching plugs open the shutters during normal insertion.
- A tamper-resistant receptacle is not the same as a GFCI receptacle.
How Tamper-Resistant Receptacle Works
A Tamper-Resistant Receptacle uses spring-loaded shutters positioned behind the faceplate openings. Pressure against one slot leaves the shutter closed, while a properly aligned plug applies balanced pressure that moves the shutters aside. The receptacle then makes contact with the plug as designed.
Related glossary terms: Receptacle, Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter, Branch Circuit.
The shutter mechanism is built into the receptacle and does not depend on a separate cover. This design helps limit access to energized contacts when an object enters a slot by itself. A Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupter serves a different purpose by monitoring current imbalance and disconnecting power when that condition occurs. A tamper-resistant model may also include GFCI protection when the receptacle design provides both functions.
From the Cincelux Electric team
When we install a tamper-resistant receptacle, we check the box, conductors, grounding path, and device connections before fitting the new outlet. Our team also tests that the plug engages normally and that any separate protective function operates as intended. We match the device to the Outlet Installation work and existing circuit conditions.
Tamper-Resistant Receptacle in Practice: A Real-World Example
A homeowner requests an outlet installation in a room where children may handle nearby objects. The electrician installs a tamper-resistant receptacle so the internal shutters remain closed when an object presses against an individual slot.
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Cincelux Electric
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