New code makes power outlets safer

subscribe

The Canadian Standards Association has produced a new electrical code that should help reduce the chances of children being electrocuted in their homes.

The code, which is expected to be adopted by the provinces and territories, requires that new homes and renovation projects use tamper-proof electrical outlets.

The receptacles have a built-in shutter system designed to prevent foreign objects such as pins, keys or nails, from touching the live electrical wires. The shutters automatically open when the two prongs of an electrical plug are inserted in the receptacle. "But if you try to put something in just one [of the outlet slots], it won't work," explained Stephen Brown of the CSA.

Over the course of a six-year study, researchers found that 365 children in Canada received electric shocks by sticking objects into household electrical outlets. Many parents have tried to make their homes safer by placing plastic covers over electrical outlets. But such covers can still be removed by curious kids. The new code "will certainly protect many, many children who have not been protected until now," Mr. Brown said.

Related News

trump-vision-of-us-energy-dominance-faces-real-world-constraints

Trump's Vision of U.S. Energy Dominance Faces Real-World Constraints

WASHINGTON DC - Former President Donald Trump has consistently advocated for “energy dominance” as a cornerstone of his energy policy. In his vision, the United States would leverage its abundant natural resources to achieve energy self-sufficiency, flood global markets with cheap energy, and undercut competitors like Russia and OPEC nations. However, while the rhetoric resonates with many Americans, particularly those in energy-producing states, the pursuit of energy dominance faces significant real-world challenges that could limit its feasibility and impact.

The Energy Dominance Vision

Trump’s energy dominance strategy revolves around deregulation, increased domestic production of oil and gas, and the rollback…

READ MORE
electricity digitransformation

Disrupting Electricity? This Startup Is Digitizing Our Very Analog Electrical System

READ MORE

Some in Tennessee could be without power for weeks after strong storms hit

READ MORE

map of power grid

Military Is Ramping Up Preparation For Major U.S. Power Grid Hack

READ MORE

pge camp fire

PG&E pleads guilty to 85 counts in 2018 Camp Fire

READ MORE