Receptacles, Switches & Lighting
Receptacle spacing rules, switch mounting, tamper-resistant receptacles, ceiling fans, lighting outlets, and entrance lighting requirements.
- Apply OESC receptacle spacing rules for dwelling units
- Identify where tamper-resistant receptacles are required
- Describe switch mounting heights and accessible switch placement
- Determine lighting outlet requirements for rooms and entrance areas
- Explain ceiling fan box requirements and outdoor receptacle rules
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Receptacle Spacing & Placement Rules
The Wall Space Rule
The OESC receptacle spacing rule ensures that no point along a wall is more than 1.8 metres from a receptacle. This means receptacles must be placed so that a standard appliance cord can reach an outlet from any point along the wall. The practical result is a receptacle approximately every 3.6 metres (measured along the wall).
What Counts as Wall Space
Wall space includes any wall section 600 mm or wider that is unbroken by a doorway, fireplace, or similar opening. Fixed glass panels and windows that extend to the floor do not count as wall space. The measurement is taken along the floor line of the wall.
Key rules for counting wall space:
- Any wall section 600 mm or wider requires a receptacle
- Wall space is measured horizontally along the floor line
- Door openings, fireplaces, and fixed cabinets break the wall space count
- Windows do not break wall space - measure through them
Hallways and Stairways
In hallways 4.5 metres or longer, at least one receptacle is required. Receptacles in stairways follow general spacing rules but must account for accessibility and safety.
Exam Tip
The exam often tests the 1.8 m rule - no point along a usable wall should be more than 1.8 m from a receptacle outlet. This is the single most tested receptacle spacing fact.
Mounting Heights
Standard receptacle mounting height is between 300 mm and 450 mm from the finished floor to the centre of the box. There is no single mandatory height in the OESC, but common practice is 300 mm for general receptacles. Counter receptacles in kitchens and bathrooms are mounted above the backsplash, typically 1050 mm from the floor.
The OESC requires that no point along a usable wall is more than 1.8 m from a receptacle. Any wall section 600 mm or wider counts as wall space and needs a receptacle. Hallways 4.5 m or longer need at least one receptacle.