This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scalding risk reduced
05/09/2005
All new and renovated properties will have to have thermostatic valves fitted to their hot water systems from next spring to reduce the risk of people being scalded.
Launching a consultation on new building regulation, Deputy Communities Minister Johann Lamont said that until now, there had been advice on water temperature control, but no mandatory regulations.
Scotland will be the first part of the UK to bring in regulations on water temperature in buildings.
Ms Lamont said:
"Scalding is a risk that exists every day in many areas, particularly in our homes. The severity of injury depends on several factors, with very young and elderly people being particularly at risk from the effects of very hot water.
"There are simple precautions that everyone should take to prevent scalding but we have listened to the concerns of individuals and organisations and have decided we should act to help prevent these accidents.
"The problem can in part be dealt with through the Scottish building standards system, where we can be proactive in taking action to address this hazard, which sees many people badly hurt every year."
The planned regulations would ensure that water from a bath or bidet will not exceed 43 degrees centigrade, and would take effect in spring 2006.