Are LST Radiators required for primary schools? – Contour discuss

Contour Heating states there is no clear answer to the above question, with the guidelines very much depending on the Local Authority of the given area.

Some authorities specify LST radiators irrespective of use, whilst others will have age limits or other determining factors. 

Understandably, this has led to an element of confusion surrounding the issue of safer heating in education. 

Contour aims to explore the requirement for LST radiators in primary schools further, for those involved in the design, specification or refurbishment of an educational setting. 

Inclusive Education

Modern mainstream schools are adapted to meet the needs of a range of individuals. They cater for a varying severity of educational need, and this should be considered when specifying furniture, fixtures and fittings. 

Some children will exhibit signs of unpredictable behaviour which puts themselves and their peers at risk. When you consider that standard panel radiators could reach a surface temperature of 70-80°C, Contour argue that we need to be asking schools: can you afford to take this risk?

LSTs are arguably the safest radiator for an educational setting, given that they’re designed not to exceed 43°C, further highlighting that the specification process of an educational setting should be driven by the safety of the end user. 

The ‘Blame’ and ‘Claim’ Culture

We often hear the term, ‘wherever there’s a blame, there’s a claim’, and unfortunately, schools are often targeted as a receiver of such treatment. 

It is not uncommon to read newspaper reports blaming schools for mistreatment or neglect of children in their care. Whilst we are not dismissing certain claims, we advise specifiers to have a heightened sense of awareness around this. 

Any opportunity to avoid damaging claims on schools should be taken seriously, which is why an LST radiator is a sensible solution.  

Design Considerations For LST Radiators

Modern LSTs don’t just protect users against surface temperature burns; they have a range of design characteristics which make them a suitable choice for primary schools, for example:

 – Strength
 – Rounded Corners
 – Versatile TRV options
 – Easy to clean

Additional Design Considerations for LST Radiators

The following characteristics do not represent all LST models on the market. However, Contour has been keen to reflect further concerns that school settings may have. These additional design considerations are:

 – Pencil-proof grilles
 – BioCote antimicrobial protection
 – Bespoke design and fitting
 – Rotarad rotating valve kits

No Nationally Agreed Criteria

Contour believe there is definitely a lack of clarity around the issue of LST radiators in primary schools. With no recognised standard, or nationally agreed criteria, schools that do not use LST radiators are at risk of being sued for lack of care and attention. 

In the care and nursing sector, a private home was recently fined £30,000 for using radiator guards that did not prevent a resident from suffering fatal burns. 

Sadly, Contour fears it may take a tragedy similar to this for authorities to change the criteria surrounding the use of LSTs in primary schools.

Contour can be contacted at;
The Mansions
43 Broadway
Shifnal
TF11 8BB
Tel: 01952 290 498
Email: [email protected]

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