Leading UK shower manufacturer, Triton, has launched an initiative to draw attention to the safety critical nature of shower accessories and the dangers of installing incompatible, poor quality and non-compliant products.
The new campaign focuses on the risks involved with connecting sub-standard hoses and spray heads to showers. It also highlights how the incorrect pairing of accessories can lead to serious operational issues and even pose a threat to people’s wellbeing.
Most consumers would quite understandably presume that shower accessories are compatible with any shower. However, some spray heads are not suitable for electric showers only mixer showers and selecting the incorrect one can cause severe problems with the operation of an electric shower or lead to the provision of extremely hot water. In a similar way, low-quality shower heads can also have an adverse effect on performance.
Furthermore, inferior hoses can become twisted or kinked during use. This restricts water flow and can create unwanted back pressure in an electric shower, as well as a build-up of hot water in the shower. The end result in both cases being the potential for users to be exposed to dangerously hot temperatures.
Steve Saunders, senior technical manager, said: “Compliance with quality standards is a huge issue for the bathroom industry and is an ongoing theme which needs constant attention if people are to be adequately protected in their own homes.
“All too often we hear how cheap imports and badly produced products are being sold at low price points in the UK. Understandably, discounted accessories are an attractive proposition for anyone looking for a quick update but these do not always equal safe solutions.
“Just because a product is available to buy in this country doesn’t mean it is compliant with the necessary British and European safety standards. As a result, Triton has chosen to raise awareness of the importance of buying and fitting only shower accessories which have been designed and tested with the user’s safety in mind.
“Over the coming months, Triton will be offering advice and information on this subject, including point of sale material and a video dedicated to showing the effects of sub-standard hoses and shower heads.”
Yvonne Orgill, chief executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, said: “We fully support this important campaign and are delighted that another of our members is working towards changing the current situation.
“There has never been a better time to improve awareness among consumers not just of the importance of sourcing compliant ‘fit for purpose’ products, but also to rid our industry of non-compliant operators.
“This campaign will have an important part to play in educating consumers and ensuring that those who adhere to the highest standards are easily identified so that they can be a natural choice for consumers.”