Electrical Inspection & Testing
Saunas & Steamrooms
Saunas are now common in many premises, not just at leisure centres and swimming pools, but at private members clubs, in hotel fitness suites and even in private homes. They provide a way of de-stressing and can be invigorating.
However, any organisation or company that operates a sauna and makes it available to members of the public, club members, and guests or similar must ensure that the hazards are understood and the risks are assessed and properly controlled in order to reduce the likelihood of an accident.
Sauna
Saunas consist of an insulated enclosure made of wood, together with heat generating equipment usually in the form of a heat-generating stove. Benches are provided within the sauna enclosure. Saunas provide a dry heat and the temperature may range from 85oC to 100oC for up to a 10 minute treatment
Steam room/Bath
These consist of an enclosure made of an impervious material and steam generating equipment. They are designed to operate at temperatures of up to 50oC regulated by a thermostat with relative humidity of 80 to 100%. They produce a wet humid heat and are intended for indoor use. Usually lasting 6 – 12 minute treatment.
As the heaters are electrically powered there is risk of electric shock. The presence of steam and water increases the risk of a serious injury. Safe installation and suitable preventive maintenance should reduce this risk to an acceptable level.
Emergency Action. Ensure that the fire alarm can be heard inside the sauna. Decide whether to install an additional alarm located within or immediately outside the sauna. Such an alarm could be used for raising the alarm if a user were taken ill.
ESI: Electrical are able to carry out inspections on the electrical installation for saunas and steam rooms. As a NICEIC Approved Contractor we are also able to carry out repairs, install safety alarms and replace lighting/equipment and issue certification to meet local authority requirements.