Scalding risks

From domestic hot water systems

The HSE has issued a safety alert following two similar fatal incidents in the last four years where a large volume of near boiling water poured through bedroom ceilings onto occupants sleeping below.

Even though such accidents are rare, scalding risk from domestic hot water systems are potentially very serious.

Homeowners and landlords should pay attention to systems that are all-electric or part-electric immersion heaters in conjunction with a plastic coldwater storage cistern or "tank" located in the roof space.

Consideration should be given to systems over 10 years old and systems which homeowners and landlords may have other reasons to suspect the adequacy of the initial installation or any subsequent work.

Visit the HSE website for information such as the typical warning signs and tips to improve your safety.

RoSPA offers a lot of support for homeowners, with free resources available on this website such as Can The Home Ever Be Safe (PDF 455kb) and Accidents To Children.

In fact, a key campaign for RoSPA is to increase TMV (thermostatic mixing valve) installations in homes across the UK.

Find out more about how you could donate to help the RoSPA campaign.