Certain equipment that you use at home must:
- comply to safety standards and regulations
- provide sufficient lighting
Electric hazards
This covers hazards from electrical shocks and burns. This doesn't include fire caused by defective electrical installations.
Fire, flames, hot surfaces
This includes injury from:
- uncontrolled fire and associated smoke
- burns and scalds from liquids and vapours other than hot water
Explosions
Principally concerns injury resulting from gas explosions. Landlords should note that they have specific duties in respect of gas safety.
Lighting
Inadequate lighting can cause accidents, eye strain and can have adverse psychological effects.
Lighting affects people's body rhythms, sleep patterns, alertness and moods. Natural lighting is also a natural disinfectant. Poor lighting can increase the risk of accidents and may prevent hygienic cleaning and proper maintenance being carried out.
Homes suffer from poor lighting when:
- it is not possible to read during the day without having a light on
- stairways are dark and gloomy
- lighting is poor in the kitchen and bathroom
- windows are too small (for instance, less than 10% of the floor area of the room)