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06/01/2004
Measures to reduce scalding accidents considered
A new set of regulations on water temperature controls are to be formulated as part of a drive to reduce the number of accidents in hot baths, it has been announced today.
Every year around 20 people die as a result of scalds in hot bath water and another 570 people suffer serious injuries.
Young children and older people are most at risk because their skin is thinner and less tolerant of hot water. More than 400 very young children are seriously injured every year, leaving toddlers facing years of painful skin grafts.
The government plans to order a review of building regulations which could see all new or converted private properties fitted with a safety device to control the temperature of water in showers, baths and basins.
Building regulations are overseen by building control inspectors working for local councils. The regulations over safe water temperatures could come into force early in 2006.
Government Minister Phil Hope said: "Safe water temperatures are essential since most accidents occur with the young, elderly or infirm either getting or falling into baths that are initially too hot, or in topping up with hot water."
Actress and scald victim Amanda Redman, now a patron of the Children's Fire and Burn Trust, welcomed the prospect of new regulations.
"Parents can minimise the risk of scalding by closely supervising bath-time, so that a child has no opportunity to turn on the hot tap while their parent is distracted," she said.
"However, the most effective safety measure is the installation of a thermostatic control device to regulate the bath water outlet temperature to reduce the risk of severe scalding."
(gmcg)
Every year around 20 people die as a result of scalds in hot bath water and another 570 people suffer serious injuries.
Young children and older people are most at risk because their skin is thinner and less tolerant of hot water. More than 400 very young children are seriously injured every year, leaving toddlers facing years of painful skin grafts.
The government plans to order a review of building regulations which could see all new or converted private properties fitted with a safety device to control the temperature of water in showers, baths and basins.
Building regulations are overseen by building control inspectors working for local councils. The regulations over safe water temperatures could come into force early in 2006.
Government Minister Phil Hope said: "Safe water temperatures are essential since most accidents occur with the young, elderly or infirm either getting or falling into baths that are initially too hot, or in topping up with hot water."
Actress and scald victim Amanda Redman, now a patron of the Children's Fire and Burn Trust, welcomed the prospect of new regulations.
"Parents can minimise the risk of scalding by closely supervising bath-time, so that a child has no opportunity to turn on the hot tap while their parent is distracted," she said.
"However, the most effective safety measure is the installation of a thermostatic control device to regulate the bath water outlet temperature to reduce the risk of severe scalding."
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
