SERIOUS INJURIES FROM DANGEROUS BATHROOMS

Sounds like a low budget horror movie from the sixties, but here are some frightening statistics that could be used to make such a movie today.

When we get to around the age of 65, most of us will usually suffer from poor sight and a lack of balance and mobility. These afflictions make us prone to slipping and falling which accounts for 79% of bathroom injuries for this age group. There are also around 10 deaths a year from these injuries.

Here are a few basic checks that you can do.

1.       Get rid of any loose floor mats.

2.       Use your bare feet (Dry) first to see how slippery the floor might be and then wet them and check the floor again.

3.       Remove or replace any loose fixtures and fittings like towel rails, soap holders and alike. Many people grab onto these for balance only to end up on the floor with the item, mainly towel rails, still in their hands or next to them.

Typical Old Bathroom

 

 

Bathrooms don’t have to be old to be dangerous. Most bathrooms in newer homes are designed mainly for the younger generation and are fitted with bath tubs that are used for bathing the young ones and to also take a shower. Not all homes have a walk in shower recess. Many of the bathroom renovations that I have completed consist of removing the existing bath tub and replacing it with a walk in shower area.

Grab Rail Beside Toilet

One of the best and least expensive items that you can fit are stainless steel grab rails. By simply installing one or two in the shower area and one beside the toilet, you immediately improve the safety of the bathroom. You can also purchase a good quality non slip mat for the shower floor. They are quite cheap, made of rubber and don’t impede the flow of water into the drain.

Grab Rails & New Shower Head

These few safety items work well provided the bathroom itself is in reasonable condition. Most times, many older bathrooms are in need of a full renovation.  It is always a good idea to have a reliable and trusted tradesman to provide you with a detailed report and a quotation for any repairs or major renovations. Make sure the contractor is licensed with the QBCC (Queensland Building & Construction Commission). You can easily check this on their website. http://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/
 

Bathrooms renovations need to be done properly. There are legal requirements that need to be met.

All plumbing and water proofing has to be completed by a licensed contractor. Any major changes to the building frame or floor requires a qualified contractor or builder. There is also a 6 year insurance period on any faulty major work.

It can be a real minefield for anyone that has purchased a house that has been badly renovated. It can look ok, but it is usually not long before problems occur, and guess what, there is no insurance for you.

I hope this article offers some help in making your home a safer place for everyone.

If you would like any free advice on any building or renovating matters, just send me an email at cgdesign43@bigpond.com

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 Cheers!