08 October 2013
Baths in new-build homes will be fitted with safety valves to prevent scalding water injuries, if proposed building standards are approved.
The proposed changes, set out in a revision to building bye-laws which is now out for public consultation, are aimed at maintaining standards in new buildings for:
- drainage
- hygiene
- hot water
Revisions to Part 6 of the second schedule to the building bye-laws and the supporting technical guidance document have been publisehd by the Minister for Planning and Environment. The overall aim of the revisions is to improve water efficiency in newly-constructed dwellings, as well as improving and updating the current technical guidance.
The Minister’s support for initiatives to improve water efficiency in new buildings reflects a desire to reduce the unnecessary use of domestic water use where possible.
The Island relies on rainfall for most of the mains water supplied and is vulnerable to periods of low rainfall or drought. Water-efficient fittings in new homes can help reduce water wastage.
People have until 25 November to submit their views on the proposed changes to the Department of the Environment.
The proposals to amending part 6 to the building bye-laws and the response form is available on Part 6 - drainage, hygiene and hot water storage web page.
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