Energy


very elderly, have sensory loss, are infirm, or mentally or physically disabled. However, thermostatic mixing valves


need to be regularly maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s guidelines to function safely. The increased risk of contamination is due to potential scale and debris build up in filters and non-return valves, which then provides a nutrient source for bacteria. The complexity of the mechanism also slows the water velocity, allowing biofilm to develop and become a safe haven for waterborne pathogens. A reduction in the temperature differential for economic reasons can also affect the efficacy of TMV mechanisms, and their ability to failsafe. If the minimal temperature differential between the hot and cold-water is not maintained, the ability of the heat-sensitive cell within the cartridge to function correctly will be severely compromised. This then presents a substantial scalding risk to the user.


Solutions for residents’ rooms In a care home environment, the risks are greatest in resident’s rooms. Innovative solutions are required to cut costs effectively without compromising on resident safety and comfort.


The scalding risk is greatest in the shower areas of residents’ rooms, as they will be fully immersed in water and anti-scalding prevention is paramount. The danger of scalding is high as the users may be infirm, very elderly, medicated, or have sensory loss. Showers and basin mixers with thermostatic technology provide peace of mind to staff and residents alike. Thermostatic showers can be recessed, wall-mounted, or panels, and offer comfort and safety for all users. The risk of scalding can be mitigated in several ways; with a sequential control mechanism that opens


and closes with cold water, or thermostatic technology that controls and regulates the temperature.


With TMV3 anti-scalding failsafe, the


water will automatically shut off if there is a failure of either the hot or cold-water supply. TMV3 thermostatic anti-scalding safety also prevents cold showers, as the water supply will automatically stop if there is a hot water supply failure. Thermal insulation is also important to prevent burns and heat transferral from the body of the tap or shower. The risk of cross flow between the hot and the cold water due to system pressure imbalance must be considered. If the hot water supply crosses into the cold-water supply, it can raise the temperature to levels that encourage Legionella bacteria (+20°C). Non-return valves can prevent cross flow but must also be regularly maintained in accordance with supplier guidelines to prevent failure and potential bacterial proliferation. Some manufacturers have now developed technology for anti-scalding safety without the need for non-return valves, simultaneously reducing the risk of infection and cross flow.


Hygiene considerations Other hygiene considerations to take into account include the design of the sanitary ware. Taps and shower mixers with smooth interiors and a very low volume of water within the body will help to significantly reduce bacteria and have been shown to reduce biofilm adherence. Mixers should be easily removeable for cleaning and disinfection. Some models


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have detachable spouts that can be quickly unclipped and replaced. This means that whenever unsafe Legionella levels are detected, the spout can be instantly changed to a filter spout. An ergonomic hygiene control lever should be favoured, as it means that the mixer can be easily operated with no manual contact, once more reducing the transference and adherence of germs.


Potential sources of infection When assessing potential sources of infection in residents’ rooms, the danger areas are wherever water is stored at room temperature for extended periods of time, in particular toilet cisterns. The risk of bacterial proliferation is


increased if the cold-water supply reaches temperatures of 20°C. This becomes a concern when ambient temperatures are high, for example during a heat wave, or due to adjacent hot and cold-water pipes. To avoid heat transfer, it is important to ensure that pipes are properly lagged. Toilet cisterns contain on average nine


litres of water, which will stagnate at room temperature. Scale and rust can build up within the cistern, resulting in biofilm which provides an ideal environment for bacteria. To avoid the problems associated with stagnant water in cisterns, a cistern- less direct flush system is the best choice. Electronic versions also benefit from the duty-flush function which goes further in purging the pipework. Cistern flush systems traditionally


designed for domestic use are fragile and prone to leaks, which are often barely


www.thecarehomeenvironment.com November 2023


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