BRE IP14/03 PDF

Hot bath water is responsible for the highest number of fatal and severe scald injuries in the home. Young and old are most at risk because their skin is thinner and less tolerant to high water temperatures. There is no legal requirement to limit water delivery temperatures in homes, but the Guidance to the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 recommends the use of thermostatic mixing valves in schools, public buildings and other public facilities. Schemes for housing built by housing associations have been revised recently. The Housing Corporation's Scheme Development Standard recommends thermostatically controlled supplies to bath taps in all housing, but considers it essential for showers and all hot water taps in housing for the elderly.

This IP explains how to reduce the risk of scalding and contains technical guidance on the selection, installation and maintenance of products to provide hot water at temperatures to minimise severe scalding risks to users of baths and showers.