Millions of UK Homes a Potential Scalding Hazard Warns NotJustTaps

Millions of UK homes a potential hazard to the young and vulnerable as they remain exempt from current legislation. Hertfordshire based ‘NotJustTaps’ launches it’s own anti-scald campaign and introduces new ShowerSafe device.
 
WATFORD, U.K. - April 23, 2013 - PRLog -- Specialist bathroom suppliers NotJustTaps is highlighting the need for wider legislation to prevent the risk of scalding in millions of UK homes.

The Hertfordshire based online supplier is launching it’s own anti-scald campaign by raising awareness of scalding risks and giving advice on how vulnerable households can be easily protected.

Every year more than two thousand children are treated in Hospitals and Accident and Emergency departments as a result of bath water scalds that can lead to life changing injuries.

A scald over more than 20% of the body – not uncommon if a small child falls into a bath of hot water – has the same impact as being hit by a bus1

Current building regulations require all new-build homes across England and Wales to have devices fitted to baths to limit the temperature of the water to 48°C. That temperature is still more than hot enough for domestic use, whilst removing the potential for the most serious scald injuries to happen.

But millions of UK homes are still at risk warns company director Derek Aaronson, who says the cost of fitting a TMV in a household far outweighs the potential cost of losing a life.

A TMV (Thermostatic Mixing Valve) is a device that can be easily fitted to an existing system to control water temperatures and help prevent the risk of scalding.

“Currently there is no requirement for homeowners or landlords in the UK to ‘retrofit’ a TMV.” Said Derek

The company has also introduced a new device to protect people from burns whilst showering.

The ShowerSafe anti scald shower fitting is a universal safety piece that can be fitted to any shower hose to prevent burns, scalding etc.

“ShowerSafe is an essential aid for domestic homes, care homes, nursing homes, for elderly users and for use in children’s bathrooms,” said Derek.

“Clearly the Government has recognised the risk of scalding in the home but there needs to be changes to the law. Legislation changed in 2010 to require all new builds to be fitted with TMVs but this leaves millions of outdated and refurbished bathrooms exempt from the building regulations. The risk of scalding in the UK, especially to the young and vulnerable still remains enormous.” Said Derek, who urged homeowners to take action.

TMVs have been used for many years in hospitals, schools, care homes and other similar environments. TMV2 valves have been designed for specific use in a domestic environment and can be bought for as little as £51.25 from NotJustTaps. The ShowerSafe fitting is just £12.95.

“Accident prevention is something as a company we feel very strongly about,” said Derek.

Derek advised homeowners and landlords to ensure they buy a TMV or shower fitting that conforms to British Standards, and to have it fitted by a qualified plumber.

“Whilst TMVs limit the temperature of the water and prevent the risk of serious scalding it’s always essential to check the temperature of the water before placing a child into the bath. It’s recommended that between 37 and 37.5°C is a comfortable bathing temperature for children.”

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