Bathroom safety: Things to consider

[Administrator]

Safety in the Bathroom When planning a new bathroom safety within the bathroom environment is an important consideration. Due to the close proximity of water, heat and electricity there are a number of safety hazards that need to be considered. Bathrooms are quite often small rooms with confined space; careful planning and the installation of helpful safety features can help to diminish the risk of accidents occurring. Slippery Surfaces Water and condensation cause slippery surfaces. The installation of non-slip mats or surfaces inside the bath, together with the fitting of grab rails at suitable positions could reduce the risk of nasty falls. Water Temperature Hot water can cause burns and the temperature of the water should be considered carefully. Always put the cold water in the bath first. Consider whether there will be any dramatic change in temperature should other water appliances be used around the house. When small children are being bathed, they should be supervised at all times. Small children should be seated facing away from the taps to deter them playing with the taps and possibly scolding themselves. If the bathroom is in a new build property, or is part of an extension, completed after 1st October 2009, it falls within the scope of Building Regulations Part G. This requires the bath filler to operate at a maximum of 48°C.

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Electrics All light fittings operated from within the bathroom should be fitted with a pull cord. If a light switch is used, it should be situated outside the bathroom. Similarly, the isolating switch for an electric shower should be outside the bathroom, unless it is a pull cord type. Any electric heaters should be fitted with fixed and permanent wiring. Electric heaters should be situated out of reach of the bath. Give careful consideration when using electrical appliances near water. Ensure that appliances are unplugged after use. Should an appliance come into contact with water, always ensure that it is unplugged before touching. Hazardous Products If a medicine cabinet is kept in the bathroom, ensure that it is lockable and the contents secured from small children. All medicines should be clearly marked. Any out of date medicines should be removed and disposed of safely. Avoid leaving any cleaning materials within easy reach of small children, as they are toxic. Store cleaning products out of sight in a cupboard and install a child proof lock. Razors and scissors should be also be securely stored There may be other personal risk factors relevant to your own circumstances that need to be taken into consideration. Please think carefully and plan accordingly! Additional information If you cannot find what you are looking for or need further assistance with safe bathroom designs, please contact us. Click on bathroom suppliers for a list of your nearest local suppliers of quality bathrooms and bathroom accessories throughout the uk.

[pipebender]

Just a note to point out that water temperatures within a domestic dwelling should be limited. BS6700 states that the ideal water temperature is 60c, but must not exceed 65c. Excessive water temperature can also damage product and cause limescale. If you have a cylinder thermostat that is a few years old, it might be a good idea to get that checked out to.

[Showermaster]

Thats very true, they should be checked as they do tend to fall off the inside of the cylinder and give incorrect readings.

[Plumbstar Tom]

Remember the cylinder thermostat is usually a 1/3 of the way up so due to Hot water rising the water will be hotter at the top of the cylinder than what the thermostat says

[pipebender]

Originally Posted by Plumbstar Tom

Remember the cylinder thermostat is usually a 1/3 of the way up so due to Hot water rising the water will be hotter at the top of the cylinder than what the thermostat says

I haven't used one myself, but am advised that you can now get cylinder stats that are preset so they cant be tampered with

[Plumbstar Tom]

Originally Posted by pipebender

I haven't used one myself, but am advised that you can now get cylinder stats that are preset so they cant be tampered with

Would be a dream because I customer I come to meet is a Mr Tamper with it as soon as your out the door!

[Showermaster]

Mr Tamper, does he have a sister Mrs poke it some. I will never understand people who try and do things when they clearly dont know what they are doing.

[Plumbstar Tom]

Half the time I have been out is because Mr I know DIY has attempted a fix and made it worse that it originally was Still, work is work

[Showermaster]

You must of been to the house I was at earlier in the week