Are all 15- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250-volt nonlocking-type receptacles in childcare facilities required to be tamper-resistant?

The requirement for all 15- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250-volt nonlocking-type receptacles in childcare facilities to be tamper-resistant stems from safety standards aimed at protecting children from electrical shock and other hazards. Tamper-resistant receptacles are designed to prevent the insertion of foreign objects into the outlet, which is a significant safety feature in environments where young children are present.

These receptacles incorporate a mechanism that blocks access to the electrical contacts unless a plug is inserted correctly. This feature significantly reduces the risk of accidental shock incidents, which is vital in childcare settings where children may explore their surroundings and interact with electrical devices. Therefore, the requirement is not only a precautionary measure but also a regulatory standard to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations in such facilities.

This requirement applies universally to these types of receptacles in childcare settings, ensuring a consistent safety standard across all such facilities, rather than selectively based on facility type or specific receptacle ratings.