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In care homes, hospitals, day centres, clinics and general practice surgeries taps and washbasins need to comply with specific regulations. These are outlined in Health Technical Memorandum 64 (HTM 64) and HTM 04-01. These documents explain in excruciating detail exactly what is required in these environments. However, here we give a brief overview and explain what these codes mean.
What is HTM 64?
The guidelines of HTM 64 must be adhered to in all new build and refurbished properties in the healthcare sector. Specifically, HTM 64 is directed at sanitary assemblies. This includes your toilets, urinals, sinks and showers - anything that is connected to both mains water and waste drainage.
The main focus of HTM 64 is washbasins and taps as in healthcare settings there are a few differences in what is expected. For example, vitreous china washbasins must have a waste outlet situated on the back wall of the sink, as opposed to the base of the bowl. The tap must also be wall-mounted and be either lever or sensor operated. Wall-mounted sensor taps have become one of the most popular options here as they don’t need to be physically touched to operate them, a huge advantage in clinical settings.
In short, if you are planning on refurbishing washrooms or stand-alone hand wash areas in the healthcare sector, you need to choose fixtures and fittings that comply with HTM 64.
We have delved into HTM 64 in more depth on our earlier post HERE.
How to comply with HTM 04-01
This document is the official guide to adhere to for anyone managing hot and cold water supply in the healthcare sector. Published by the UK Department for Health and Social Care, it outlines the Water Safety Groups (WSGs) and Water Safety Protocols (WSPs) that need to be followed to ensure safe water supply for all users.
In its entirety, HTM 04-01 covers the design, installation, commissioning, testing, monitoring, and operation of water supply systems. It’s a document that needs to be followed by everyone from manufacturers of healthcare-specific sanitary ware, to the caretakers and site managers of hospitals.
One of the most important things to be mindful of is the checks and measures put in place for Legionella Disease, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa and other waterborne pathogens.
HTM 04-01 is a hefty document to wade through, but if you would like advice or support in selecting the right products for your washroom, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help. Alternatively, if you are planning a refurbishment of any size, we also offer a full design, specification and installation service, handling the handwork and compliance across all sectors.
If you need any other advice and support complying with taps, basins and the wider washroom in medical environments, please get in touch with one of the team on 01202 650900.
