What is a tamper resistant outlet?

A tamper-resistant (TR) outlet has a built-in safety mechanism that prevents children from inserting objects into the slots, making it one of the most important child safety features in modern electrical installations.

Inside a tamper-resistant receptacle, there are two spring-loaded plastic shutters that cover the contact openings. These shutters only open when equal, simultaneous pressure is applied to both slots at the same time — exactly what happens when you plug in a standard two or three-prong plug. If a child tries to insert a single object (a key, a paperclip, a fork) into just one slot, the shutter on that side won't budge. Both shutters must be depressed at the same time to allow access, which essentially eliminates the risk of a child getting shocked by poking something into a single slot.

Why they matter is backed up by some sobering statistics. Electrical receptacles are responsible for thousands of child injuries every year across North America. Traditional plastic plug-in covers — the kind parents used to buy at the dollar store — are actually considered less effective because children can remove them, and they can become choking hazards themselves. Tamper-resistant outlets solve the problem at the source.

Ontario Code Requirements

Under the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC), tamper-resistant receptacles are required in all new residential construction and renovations. They're mandatory in locations accessible to children, and the ESA enforces this requirement during inspections. If you're doing any permitted electrical work — adding circuits, upgrading a panel, finishing a basement — your electrician will be required to install TR receptacles throughout the affected areas.

You can identify a tamper-resistant outlet by the letters "TR" stamped between the slots on the face of the receptacle. They look nearly identical to standard outlets, which is part of what makes them so practical — no visible covers to remove or lose.

Should You Upgrade Your Existing Outlets?

If your home was built before TR receptacles became code-required, your existing outlets are likely standard receptacles. While you're not legally required to retrofit older outlets that aren't part of a permitted renovation, it's a smart safety upgrade — especially in homes with young children. Outlet replacement is one of the few tasks a homeowner can legally do themselves in Ontario (like-for-like replacement, with the power off), and TR receptacles cost only a few dollars more than standard ones.

That said, if you're planning any larger electrical project — a basement finish, a kitchen renovation, or a panel upgrade — your licensed electrician will handle TR outlet installation as part of the permitted work automatically.

For any questions about your home's receptacles or to discuss an upgrade, feel free to reach out to Electrical Ottawa for a free consultation.