What can I do to reduce the risk of burns and scalding?

WaterSafe recommends using a qualified plumber who will advise on the use of thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs) with taps or showers to reduce the risk of burns and scalding. These devices should be maintained annually.

TMVs allow water to be stored at a high enough temperature to kill harmful microorganisms, but reduce it to a safe temperature at the point it comes out of the tap or shower, by mixing it with the cold water supply. TMVs also maintain the pre-set, safe temperature even when water pressure fluctuates as other appliances are used. TMVs will shut down the flow if the hot or cold water supply fails.

Note: Care needs to be taken that adding TMVs does not lead to problems with microorganisms, so TMVs should be installed close to where they will be used to minimise the length of pipework the water will pass through at a reduced temperature.

Hot Water Burns Like Fire is a campaign to stop scalding by hot water from taps and showers. Visit their website for more information on how to minimise the risk of burns and scalding.