Recent statistics for scalding and burns caused by contact with domestic systems have just been released. With the overall census highlighting an increase in incidents, the figures reported show above average numbers for the last ten years.
For those traders working in the bathroom industry, keeping customers safe and secure in this space is a top priority. And there are many ways a tradesperson can help when designing a safe bathroom for all members of the home to use.
Here, The Bathroom Showroom considers the findings while offering expert help and guidance.
Taps and Home Heating Appliances to Blame for Rise in Domestic Scalding and Burns
The recent findings were taken over a 10-year period, covering 2013 to 2023. In a study undertaken by NHS Digital statistics for burns and scalding, the findings highlight the risk to both health and the strain on the NHS.
Startling figures in this study include a sharp rise of 22% in incidents involving contact with hot water taps. Elsewhere a 5% increase has been reported in instances involving pipes, radiators, and hot heating domestic appliances.
How to Prevent Scalding and Burns in the Bathroom
When it comes to ensuring safety in our homes, the bathroom is often an overlooked area. However, it's important for all homeowners to take precautions to prevent scalding and burns in this space.
Yet, with a crucial role to play, it's those in the bathroom trade who are perfectly placed when creating a safer bathroom environment. From domestic systems to hot water taps, hot heating appliances, radiators, and pipes, here we cover all aspects that can pose a risk of scalding and burns in the bathroom.
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Check The Domestic System
Domestic systems play a crucial role in maintaining a safe temperature for hot water in the bathroom. So, it's essential to have a reliable and properly functioning domestic hot water system to prevent scalding accidents.
Encourage customers to regularly check the system's thermostat settings. Ensuring they're at a safe level, usually around 60 °C to 65 °C, will help avoid excessively hot water that can lead to burns.
Professional Tip: Invest in a TMW (thermostatic mixing valve) for a domestic hot water system. This device automatically mixes hot and cold water to ensure a safe and consistent water temperature.
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Hot Heating Appliances and Radiators
Hot heating appliances and radiators can also pose a risk of burns, especially for children. Here are some tips that customers can apply to ensure safety:
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Install radiator covers or barriers to prevent direct contact with the hot surfaces.
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Keep flammable materials away from heating appliances and radiators, as they can easily catch fire.
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Educate children about the dangers of touching hot surfaces and keep them away from heating appliances and radiators.
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Protecting Pipes and Ensuring Proper Insulation
Pipes that carry hot water can also pose a danger if not adequately insulated. Hot pipes running through the bathroom can cause serious burns if accidentally touched. To prevent such incidents:
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Suggest installing pipe insulation around exposed hot water pipes in a customers bathroom. This will ensure that the outer surface of the pipes remains cool to the touch.
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Keep pipes hidden or covered where possible to prevent accidental contact, especially for young children or individuals with limited mobility.
Help Your Customers Safe Safe in The Bathroom
Preventing scalding and burns in the bathroom is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. By following these expert tips, you can create a safer bathroom environment for your customers.
From domestic systems to hot water taps, hot heating appliances, radiators, and pipes, bathroom safety starts with awareness and proactive measures.
If you're looking to help your customers install their dream bathroom, speak to us at the bathroom showroom. With over 280 showrooms and a renowned history of working with the trade, we're the experts in all things bathrooms.
