Introduction
Do you know that the most intimate space of your home, i.e., the bathroom, can turn out to be unsafe without proper protection? Yes! You heard it right. Slips, falls, scalds, cuts, electrical shocks, and infections are some hazards lurking in bathrooms.
This is not to create a false alarm among the readers but genuinely out of concern to care for the members of your household. Without safety features, potential dangers in bathrooms are highly possible. Hence, choosing the proper bathroom fittings when remodelling or building a bathroom is crucial.
In this blog, let’s explore the safety features in bathroom fittings. Let’s get started!
Tips For Bathroom Safety
#1 Install a walk-in tub for easier access without stepping over the side.
#2 Use non-slip mats or decals in the tub/shower and rubber-backed rugs outside to prevent slips.
#3 Add grab bars near the toilet and tub/shower for balance and support.
#4 Place nightlights to avoid falls in the dark.
#5 Utilize an adjustable shower head or handheld for bathing while seated.
#6 Position electrical appliances away from water and damp areas to prevent shocks.
#7 Adjust your water heater temperature to 120°F or lower to avoid scalding.
#8 Install ground fault outlets for protection near water sources.
#9 Securely attach towel bars, shelves, and other fixtures so they won’t fall.
#10 Store medications, cleaning supplies, etc., up high or locked away for safety
Understanding the risks in bathrooms
But before knowing the safety considerations, let us understand the potential risks in bathrooms. Here are a few mentioned below.
- Wet bathroom floors are one of the leading causes of slip-and-fall accidents in homes.
- Hot water from faucets or showers can cause severe burns if not temperature-regulated.
- Young children and older people are at a higher risk of falling into tubs or showers due to losing balance.
- Young children are at risk of drowning in as little as 1-2 inches of water left in tubs, sinks, or toilets.
- Mobility challenges for the elderly or disabled without easy-to-use fixtures.
Why do safety features in bathroom fittings matter?
There are several reasons why prioritising safety should be at the top of your mind. Faucets, showers, tubs, and toilets that lack adequate safety can lead to tragic accidents.
We can see several bathroom injuries yearly because of the lack of protection features. But do not worry; the technology has progressed, and there are bathroom fittings with integrated safety mechanisms. When you invest in the right fixtures, you can easily prevent bathroom accidents.
- Ensuring non-slip surfaces and grab bars can help prevent slip and fall injuries.
- Anti-scald valves and thermostatic mixing valves are a must to avoid hot water burns from faucets or showers.
- Slip-resistant bottoms and grab bars beside the bathtubs and showers provide stability and help avoid falling.
- Ergonomic and safety features prevent falls while seated on toilets and strains from lifting or lowering.
- Drain covers in tubs, sinks, or toilets prevent drowning accidents for young children.
- Safety feature-equipped bathroom fittings account for easy accessibility and mobility for older or physically challenged people.
| Also Read: How Bathroom Fitting Imporves the Home Value
Safety Considerations When Choosing Bathroom Fittings
Look out for the safety features in the bathroom fittings during your next purchase!
6 Safety Features To Consider When Buying Faucets
Faucets may seem harmless, but they can be the source of scalds and bumped heads. When selecting a bathroom faucet, look for these safety features.
- Anti-Scald Valves: Seek out faucets designed to prevent scalding. Thermostatic anti-scald valves maintain water temperature below 120°F. This prevents accidental scalding.
- Lever Handles: Lever-style handles are easier to turn on and off than knob handles. This helps prevent strain and injury.
- Swivel Spouts: Spouts that swivel allow you to direct water flow and avoid splashes.
- Water-Conserving Flow Rates: Low-flow faucets conserve water while still meeting safety needs.
- Bump-Proof Levers: Choose faucets with levers that sit close to the wall. This reduces the impact if someone falls against the faucet.
- Easy-Touch Capabilities: Electronic faucets can be turned on/off with just a tap. These are ideal for those with limited dexterity.
5 Safety Features To Consider When Buying Showers
Showers also present ample injury risks. To choose safe shower suites,
- Opt for anti-scald valves: Thermostatic or pressure-balanced valves maintain water temperature and prevent scalding.
- Choose slip-resistant flooring: Choosing flooring with non-slip surfaces prevents falls, especially in glass-enclosed showers.
- Always look for grab bars: Install grab bars inside and outside showers for stability and emergency support.
- Select low thresholds: Choose shower stalls or enclosures with no-threshold entries for easy access and to prevent tripping.
- Check for seating options: Consider foldable shower seats or stools for elderly or injured individuals.
| Also Read: Bathroom Interior Design Trends in 2024
5 Safety Features To Consider When Buying bathtubs
Bathtubs also present ample injury risks. To choose safe bathtubs,
- Opt for slip-resistant bottoms: Using enamelled or textured tub bottoms provides traction to prevent slips.
- Have grab bars: Installing multiple grab bars inside and near tubs helps support entering and exiting the bathing.
- Choose low thresholds: Look for alcove tubs with no-step entries or ramps for easy access.
- Get drain/overflow covers: Covers prevent access to drain openings to avoid injuries or drowning risks.
- Look for thermostatic valves: They help with temperature regulation and anti-scald protection in tub faucets or showers.
8 Safety Features To Consider When Buying Toilets
Toilets come with their own safety considerations. Opt for,
- Comfort Height Design: Taller toilets at chair height help elders safely get on and off the toilet.
- Elongated Bowls: Elongated toilet bowls give more room to manoeuvre, preventing falls and injuries.
- Easy-flush controls: Lever handles are safer than buttons or knobs for children and elderly. Touchless flushing is also helpful.
- Built-In Bidets: Bidets reduce the need to thoroughly clean after using the toilet. This helps prevent the injury risks for those with mobility challenges.
- Grab Bars and Rails: As with tubs and showers, grab bars around toilets improve safety.
- Antimicrobial Surfaces: Bacteria-resistant materials like copper reduce disease risk from surface contact.
- Slow-closing seats: Seats that close slowly prevent trapping or pinching fingers.
- Slip-resistant seats: Textured, non-porous seats provide traction and prevent falls.
| Also Read: Types of Bathroom Fitting Materials
In addition to the above, there are other functional safety-oriented fittings to consider.
- Lighting: Properly lit spaces prevent falls and visibility issues. Motion-activated lights are ideal.
- Ventilation: Effective ventilation prevents mould/mildew and reduces infection risks.
- Flooring: Floors must be slip-resistant with materials like rubber, vinyl, or slip-resistant ceramic tiles installed properly.
- Electrical Fittings: Waterproof electrical outlets, ground fault interrupters (GFI) outlets, and proper grounding prevent shocks.
- Emergency Pull Cords: Pull cords near toilets provide quick assistance access if needed.
If you are buying bathroom fittings, head to East India Company!
When it comes to buying the best bathroom fittings that offer top-notch safety and functionality, look no further than East India Company. As Chennai’s leading sanitaryware store for over 20 years, they have a vast selection of premium brands.
You will find all types of safety-centric fittings here. The expert team will guide you on the ideal products based on your budget and space. You also get great deals and discounts throughout the year. Visit and explore various options for your dream safe bathroom makeover!
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| For Latest Updates and Trends Checkout Official East India Company Instagram Page |
Conclusion
Your bathroom should be a safe and comfortable space for relaxing after a long, tiring day. Investing in the right safety-oriented fittings and accessories allows you to enjoy your bathroom while minimising risks. By focusing on features that address common risks like scalding, slipping, falling and pinching, you can select bathroom fittings suited for safety.
Now, you would have understood that safety features in bathroom fittings are essential! Look around your bathroom and upgrade it with anti-scald valves, grab bars, improved lighting, slip-resistant surfaces, etc., for your next remodelling.
Safety Features In Bathroom Fittings – FAQs
1). What are the safety precautions in the bathroom?
The standard safety precautions include ensuring the floor is dry to prevent slips and falls, closing the toilet lid before flushing to avoid spreading germs and keeping all electrical appliances away from water to prevent electric shocks.
2). Why is bathroom safety important?
The bathroom often involves water and can be slippery, so safety precautions help prevent accidents like slips and falls that could cause injuries. It is also easy for germs to spread in the bathroom, so following proper safety guidelines helps reduce the transmission of illnesses. Overall, maintaining bathroom safety helps protect people’s health and well-being.
3). What should you consider in choosing bathroom supplies?
You’ll want to pick durable items for frequent use that are made of materials that can withstand moisture. Selecting supplies in sizes and styles that fit your bathroom space and are safe to use is also essential. Considering your budget, needs, and bathroom décor will help you choose quality supplies that last and create a safe and functional bathroom.
4). Name some safety features in bathroom fittings.
Many faucets and shower heads have pressure-balancing valves that regulate water pressure and temperature to prevent scalding. Non-slip surfaces on tubs and shower floors help reduce fall risks. Toilets have sturdy seats and lids to avoid injuries from unexpected movements or
