---
title: "What Is Tamper-resistant receptacle? Electrical Glossary"
description: "A tamper-resistant receptacle has built-in shutters that block objects pushed into the slots. It protects children from shock."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/tamper-resistant-receptacle
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Wiring and circuits

# Tamper-resistant receptacle

A tamper-resistant receptacle has built-in shutters that block objects pushed into the slots. It protects children from shock.

Leviton says a tamper-resistant receptacle has a shutter that blocks access to the contacts unless a plug with two or three prongs goes in. These receptacles were developed after children were hurt pushing keys, hairpins, paper clips, pens and other objects into slots.

The shutters open only when pressure is applied to both sides at once, as a normal plug does. Many places require them in homes, and code editions change, so check what your city enforces. Some are also [weather-resistant](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/weather-resistant-receptacle) or add [USB ports](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/usb-outlet). A licensed electrician can swap them.

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Receptacle](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/receptacle)
-   [Weather-resistant receptacle](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/weather-resistant-receptacle)
-   [USB outlet](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/usb-outlet)
-   [Outlet](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/outlet)

## Sources

1.  [Leviton: GFCI and Tamper-Resistant Receptacles for a Safer Home](https://leviton.com/support/literature/blogs/gfci-tamper-resistant-receptacles)
2.  [Leviton: GFCI and Tamper-Resistant Receptacles for a Safer Home](https://leviton.com/support/literature/blogs/gfci-tamper-resistant-receptacles)

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