Product category:
Control Valves (Rotary, Mixing, Temperature Control etc)
News Release from: BEAMA
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 05 March 2001
Code of practice for using mixing valves
on way
The Thermostatic Mixing Valves Association is launching a safety in the home campaign to reduce the incidence of burns and scalds, and will also be issuing a code of practice for using mixing valves
The TMVA (Thermostatic Mixing Valves Association) are launching a 'safety in the home campaign' to reduce the incidence of burns and scalds They will also be issuing a code of practice for the use of mixing valves
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 19 Mar 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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This guide is intended to provide information that will lead to increased levels of both comfort and safety in the UK's 25 million homes.
However, it has been prepared for use by building professionals and homeowners.
The document is intended to provide clear guidance relevant to all Domestic installations including Private homes, Holiday Homes, Rented Accommodation, Hostels, Hotels and Guest Houses, but does not supersede any current legislation.
There are currently no national regulations prescribing safe limits on hot water in homes.
This is despite the fact that all scaldings are wholly avoidable by the installation and use of the appropriate safety products.
Best practice dictates that hot water is generated and stored at temperatures of no less than 60øC in all domestic dwellings.
However, scalding occurs well below the boiling point of water.
Temperatures above 45øC can cause serious injury very quickly.
Experience in other countries has shown that limiting hot water temperatures to a safe range for bathing and washing can reduce accidents involving hospitalisation by 50%.
The TMVA report recommends that Thermostatic Mixing Valves be used on all household applications from baths to bidets.
Mathew Gordon, Chairman of the TMVA, said, "This represents a real step forward in terms of safety and a genuine shot in the arm for the industry.
I think this will raise safety levels by making people more aware of what, to many, is a hidden danger.
If all this action can result in one saved life, or one child less having to undergo the agony of skin grafts then it will be worthwhile." For guidance on non-domestic and specialist applications, such as Health Care, Care Homes and those areas for use by people deemed to be at risk, please refer to the TMVA's 'Recommended Code of Practice for Safe Water Temperatures'.
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