LST radiators: when safety comes first

796. That’s how many hospital patients the NHS reports for 2022-23 with burns resulting from contact with hot heating appliances, radiators and pipes. Low surface temperature radiators are a very effective solution to minimise the risk associated with this hazard, especially in settings where there are safety concerns and (young) children or vulnerable people run the risk of injuries.? LST radiators offer piece of mind with an easy-to-install solution that keeps public areas safe and warm.?

What are LST radiators?

LST radiators, or low surface temperature radiators, are designed to comply with NHS Estates Health Guidance Notes and the Education (School Premises) Regulations. This guidance indicates that where children, students or vulnerable people may come into prolonged contact, radiators and associated pipework should be designed or covered so that the maximum accessible surface temperature does not exceed 43°C. This is considered a safe surface temperature because at this heat it would take more than 2.5 hours for skin that comes into contact with a radiator to burn.

Myson LST radiators have been carefully designed to comply with the published guidelines, making them an ideal solution for settings where efficient heating is required but safety comes first. LST radiators are mainly used in nursing homes, care facilities, schools, nurseries and hospitals to minimise safety concerns for curious children exploring their surroundings, and vulnerable adults who may be more prone to accidents.

LST radiators for healthcare heating

The benefits of low surface temperature radiators extend beyond the safe touch temperature. “Myson’s LST radiators are covered with antimicrobial paint, which helps to reduce the build-up of bacteria and prevents the transmission of disease”, says Nabeel Javaid, Cluster Product Manager at Purmo Group. This allows LST radiators to be fitted in settings where hygiene is also an important factor, such as healthcare facilities, dental surgeries, GP practices and office environments. “On top of that, our LST radiators typically have a flat surface and an easily removable front case that offers access to the radiator for effortless cleaning and enhanced hygiene levels.”

“Increasingly, radiant underfloor and ceiling low temperature heating systems are being utilised in education and healthcare settings,” says Eamon McBrearty, UK Sales Director at Myson, “however, it’s not always feasible to install a new, low temperature system. LST radiators remain a reliable, hygienic and cost-effective option, particularly when renovating older, high temperature heating systems. LST radiators match very well with existing heating systems. They are easily maintained and offer a great solution that ensures the safety and wellbeing of patients, staff and visitors.”

LST radiators in schools & nurseries

For additional protection our low surface temperature radiators have a rounded steel casing, which reduces the risk of cuts, bruises or other injuries that might occur due to falls or hard contact with the radiator. “This important feature can prevent many problems in hospitals and other care facilities, but is also vital in nurseries, schools and children’s playrooms”, says Nabeel. “Young children are likely to be seriously injured if they come into contact with a hot or sharp surface. LST radiators align with the official guidelines and offer a heating solution that keeps them safe.”

“Our low surface temperature radiators are also very robust and designed to withstand damage from knocks, bumps, or the occasional accident. This can be practical in hospitals, where staff are continuously operating trolleys, but also in childcare or educational settings where accidents will inevitably happen from time to time. In the latter, you ideally also want tamper-proof and lockable radiators, so we provide a special key that can be used to lock and open up the casing as the user sees fit.”

Specifically-designed TRV kits and valves are available for Myson’s LST radiators. These come in two variations; either as a Direct Fit kit or a Closed Coupled TRV kit. The kits fit different styles of pipes for an easy configuration into the LST radiator.

Low surface temperature in new buildings

Of course new nursing homes, care facilities, schools, hospitals, etc. are also still being built. These need to comply with current building regulations in line with the Net Zero targets. That includes a heating system designed to operate at a maximum flow temperature of 55°C.

Eamon concludes, “Even with modern heating systems, it remains important to comply with the NHS requirement of a surface temperature that doesn’t exceed 43°C. Thanks to our wide array of heating and cooling products, Myson is able to offer a fitting solution for every project.”

For more information go to www.myson.co.uk/products/lst.htm