Prevention of scalding with thermostatic mixing valves (TMV)
Storing hot water at above 60◦C helps prevent the legionella bacteria from forming, but it also presents a real risk of scalding through a water system’s hot taps. If you own or manage business premises, you will be liable in law for any consequent injury – even if you put up signs warning tap users of the presence of very hot water.
The solution is to install thermostatic mixing valves or TMVs wherever there is a risk of scalding. A TMV mixes the hot and cold water at the point of use, so ensuring a comfortable temperature at all times. As a supplier of TMVs, UKES will advise you regarding appropriate installation, monitoring and maintenance of what for anyone connected with the running of premises is an indispensable safety tool.
Although there is at present no legal requirement to limit water delivery temperatures, every employer has a duty under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to ensure that the safety of anyone using their premises is not put at risk.
The use of TMVs is recommended by DEFRA in buildings and facilities used by the public.
The risk of scalding is of course greatest in the health care sector, where children, the elderly and vulnerable adults may require supervision. In July 2008, after an NHS Trust in Oxford was fined following the scalding of an elderly patient when taking a bath, the Health and Safety Executive advised hospitals and establishments such as care homes to ensure that all baths and showers are fitted with TMVs.
