Receptacles, Cord Connectors & Attachment Plugs

Article 406 governs receptacles, plugs and cord connectors — how they're grounded and mounted, when weather-resistant and tamper-resistant types are required, and the faceplates and covers that go with them. Because these are the devices the public actually plugs into, the rules focus on safety in ordinary hands.

Key provisions include tamper-resistant receptacles in dwellings to keep children from inserting objects, weather-resistant receptacles with in-use covers outdoors, correct connection of grounding and grounded conductors, and prohibitions on damaged devices. The point is a receptacle that stays safe over years of pulling and plugging.

When it applies

Article 406 governs receptacles, plugs, and cord connectors, from how they are grounded to how they mount and where weather or tamper resistance is required. Any spot where people plug in falls under these rules, including the tamper-resistant receptacles homes now need and the weather-resistant, in-use covers outdoors.

Common mistakes

• Installing standard receptacles where tamper-resistant ones are now required in dwellings.
• Using a non-weather-resistant device or a flip cover instead of an in-use cover outdoors.
• Reversing hot and neutral or leaving the ground unterminated.

In the field

In a home I use tamper-resistant receptacles throughout and weather-resistant devices with bubble covers on every exterior box. It is a small upgrade that keeps little fingers and rainwater out of harm's way.