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LST radiators are an invaluable addition to a heating solution no matter where they are installed.
They are a safe method of heating a space that protects everybody within it from the risk of injuries and burns as a result of contact with the surface.
Certain countries require the use of low surface temperature heating solutions in particular areas because of the safety benefits that they can offer.
Read on to find out more…
LST Radiator Laws in the UK & Ireland
The UK Government lays out the legal requirements for LST radiators and heating solutions across multiple sectors to ensure health and safety standards are consistently maintained.
LST radiators are required in schools, hospitals, residential care homes, doctor’s surgeries and disabled bathrooms as a matter of protection for vulnerable people in those spaces.
The Health And Safety Executive makes recommendations for the design of healthcare facilities, stating: “many [traditional] radiators and associated pipework are likely to operate at temperatures which may present a burn risk”.
As a result, these spaces also require that “Heating pipework should not be exposed to touch within service user-accessible areas and should be encased and insulated”, as quoted from The Department Of Health in reference to mental health and general hospital spaces.
The UK’s Care Quality Commission requires heating controls on LST radiators to be external to the room in mental health spaces.
UK schools must have a working classroom temperature of 18°C within one hour of pupils entering the premises, otherwise, they can be sent home.
LST radiators in the education space are advised not to exceed 43°C. Above this temperature, there is an increased risk of scalds and burns should a pupil fall against the radiator. The aim of the UK legislation is to eliminate this risk by providing a safer heating solution.
These laws apply to the countries in the United Kingdom including England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
LST Radiator Laws In Europe And US
The European Union does not specify low surface temperatures as part of the safety requirements in its discussions of heating and ventilation.
However, it does require a higher level of energy efficiency from any heating product including electric heaters, radiators and LST radiators.
In the US, LST radiators are required to be fully maintained and operational at all times, as they are in the UK, but are not a specified requirement in certain spaces.
Conclusion
In the UK, there is a requirement that the maximum temperature of an LST radiator is 43°C. This reduces the risk of scalds and burns if anybody were to come into contact with the surface of the radiator.
In Europe, LST radiators must be more energy efficient in order to be sold in countries within the European Union and in the United States, LST radiators are only required to be fully maintained but there is no expectation of where they should be installed.
About Us
Contour produces a range of innovative, safe surface temperature systems for healthcare, education, mental health, commercial and secure sectors, working in close partnership and collaborating with architects, M&E engineers, NHS Trusts, local authorities, design consultants and contractors to deliver outstanding safe heating solutions.
Contour is the exclusive partner of BioCote® anti-microbial technology for LST and anti-ligature radiators. BioCote® additives reduce bacteria by up to 99.9%. Contour combine an extensive range of colour-paints is with BioCote® for a durable, high-quality finish.
Contour’s heating solutions offer secure, single-person quick access to radiator guard interiors for regular deep cleaning and maintenance. Each year, Contour save the NHS millions of pounds in cleaning costs, therefore delivering cleaner, safer environments. Contour is redefining the marketplace and therefore many regard us as a design and innovation leader within the industry.
Contour have a quality- first philosophy. Our customer-focused team possess a ‘can-do’ attitude, they take pride in developing solutions for your heating requirements.
Contact us at:
The Mansions, 43 Broadway Shifnal
Shropshire TF11 8BB United Kingdom
+44 1952 290 498
Twitter: @Contour_Heating
LinkedIn: Contour Heating Products Ltd
