What are the radiator surface temperature regulations for schools and nurseries?
What are the radiator surface temperature regulations for schools and nurseries?
The Education (School Premises) Regulations 1999 define the radiator surface temperature requirements for schools and nurseries. Part IV of the regulations concerns structural requirements and heating is covered under section 20, which states:
‘In a special school, nursery school or teaching accommodation used by a nursery class in a school the surface temperature of any radiator, including exposed pipework, which is in a position where it may be touched by a pupil shall not exceed 43°C’.
Schools and nurseries must therefore specify radiators that can operate with a low surface temperature (LST) which are designed to ensure that their surfaces do not exceed this 43°C safe temperature limit.
The same regulations also state that the chosen heating system must be able to heat the space to specific temperatures. These are either 15°C, 18°C or 21°C depending on the level of physical activity expected within the space.
Where a low surface temperature radiator is specified, it needs to comply with the safe working temperature requirements of regulations and be able to heat and maintain the space to the correct temperature.
Modern low surface temperature radiators have similar features to modern electric panel heaters Their intelligent controls and precise electronic thermostats enable them to efficiently heat and do so within the safety limits set out in the regulations. Some manufacturers include fan technology in the design of LSTs to help reduce the time it takes to achieve the desired room temperature.
Are low surface temperature radiators a regulatory requirement in Europe?
There are no similar requirements to regulate the temperature for low surface radiators in Europe. The focus on products that use energy in Europe, including heating appliances, is the Eco Design Directive. Electric heaters sold in Europe need to be Lot 20 compliant. This means that they have been manufactured to a set of standards and must include features that make them more energy efficient.
As the Eco Design Directive was retained within UK regulations after Brexit, Lot 20 compliance is a requirement of electric heaters wherever they are specified, including the education sector. However, a Lot 20 compliant panel heater made in Europe may not meet the criteria to be classified as a compliant low surface temperature radiator in the UK and this should be checked carefully prior to specification.
Where can I find out more about modern low surface temperature radiators?
At Dimplex our LSTE low surface temperature panel heater is Lot 20 and Education (School Premises) Regulations 1999 compliant and provides a safe heating solution for schools and nurseries. It delivers rapid and efficient heating through an integrated fan that operates at low ambient noise levels, whilst maintaining a safe maximum surface temperature of 43°C and is IP24 rated for splash resistance from any direction.
The LSTE low surface temperature heater by Dimplex features Open Window Detection and Adaptive Start, along with programmable controls and a precise electronic thermostat to help reduce fuel bills. The LSTE features can be operated remotely for streamlined reporting and maintenance with a Radio Frequency Module, Dimplex Control Hub (sold separately) and Dimplex Control app. If you would like to find out how choosing the LSTE can benefit your next school or nursery project, please contact our application design specialists who will be happy to help.