Tamper-Resistant Receptacles: A Buyer’s Specification Checklist

Specify tamper resistance alongside the electrical rating, GFCI protection and weather resistance. Check the local requirements before ordering.

ComplianceBy 3 min read
Tamper-resistant FAHINT outlet in a living-room application illustration
Tamper-resistant device selection for living spaces. Application illustration; confirm the markings and requirements for the exact model.

Buyer information, not installation instructions. Requirements depend on the adopted local code and exact product. Electrical work and site diagnosis should be performed by qualified professionals.

Tamper resistance, weather resistance and ground-fault protection are separate features. A tamper-resistant receptacle may still need other functions to meet your project specification.

Where is tamper resistance required?

Section 406.12 of the 2023 NEC covers specified residential and other occupancies. It includes 125V and 250V nonlocking receptacles at the ratings named in that section. The scope is broader than children’s rooms. [Source]

The edition adopted locally, its amendments and any applicable exceptions determine the requirements for the project. Ask a qualified electrical professional or the authority having jurisdiction to confirm them.

Make each required feature explicit

Write down the voltage, current rating and NEMA configuration, followed by the required tamper resistance, weather resistance and GFCI protection. Match the selected model to the whole list. Similar-looking receptacles can have different ratings or functions.

Check the supplied model and finish

Compare the full model number, device markings and documents with the purchase order. GT20 combines tamper resistance with GFCI protection; RT20 is a tamper-resistant duplex receptacle without an integral GFCI function.

Include the finish and wallplate in the order specification. Review the appearance and fit using samples, then retain the approved model and finish details for reorders.

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