Contour discusses Anti-Ligature vs LST radiators in education

21 Feb 2020

Contour Heating explores some of the different educational environments and which radiator is best suited to your type of school.

As educational settings differ, so do their requirements in terms of resources and furniture. Low Surface Temperature (LST) and Anti-Ligature radiators and covers differ based on their characteristics and intended use. This will impact on the type of radiator or cover that you decide to specify.

Radiators for Special Educational Needs (SEN) Schools

There are a variety of SEN schools which focus on different areas, from communication and interaction to sensory and physical needs.

Whilst we recognise that SEN schools differ in the level of care that they provide, we recommend that in more severe cases, an anti-ligature radiator would be the better option.

As the name suggests, anti-ligature radiators reduce any risk of an individual tying a cord or rope around anchor points on the radiator.

This is especially useful for those who display self-abusive tendencies or have any behavioural issues.

Want to find out more? Here are 5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Anti-Ligature Radiators For Your SEN School.

Radiators For Mainstream Schools

State schools, academies, faith schools and independent schools all fall into this category. When referring to mainstream schools, we’re assuming that there are very few children with Special Educational Needs.

If there are children with SEN, you would expect them to have a one-to-one Teaching Assistant who would be responsible for the care and safety of the child. In these instances, an LST radiator would be a better option. LST radiators are designed not to exceed 43°C; the recommended heat output as highlighted by current regulations.

A surface that exceeds 43°C is considered to be a burn risk to children who come in close contact with them. Considering that back in 2010, one-thousand three hundred and ninety-nine children suffered a burn injury in a place of education, the surface temperature should be closely monitored.

Radiators For Nursery Schools

However, when it comes to nurseries, radiators very much depend on the individual school’s circumstances. Contour understands that younger children are more likely to explore their surroundings through play, increasing the risk of an accident occurring via a ligature point.

Additionally, younger children are more likely to post items through the grilles, causing potential hygiene and heat-related issues. However, whilst anti-ligature radiators provide an element of safety, they do not provide the low surface temperature that is required to reduce burn incidents.

Therefore, to be on the safe side, Contour recommends that you opt for an LST radiator with pencil-proof grilles.

Radiators For Residential Facilities

Residential facilities are widely used throughout the year by a range of different children. The need for robust performance to withstand wear over time is a key factor to consider. As radiators will be placed within dormitories with minimal adult supervision, Contour recommends an LST radiator with pencil-proof grilles. This way you’re reducing the risk of a burn incident, and preventing any small items being pushed through the casing.

Other benefits you’ll get from Contour’s radiators are a wide variety of colour options. Colour psychology suggests that certain colours can have a positive impact on our mood and well-being. This is particularly important for those with SEN. Luckily, Contour offers plenty of options when it comes to colour.

Plus, whatever you choose, you can be confident that all of Contour’s radiators will provide ultimate protection against a range of harmful bacteria, including MRSA and E.coli. This is due to Contour’s unique BioCote protection.

Overall, choosing the right radiator for your educational setting can be a difficult decision. However, Contour’s experts are always available, should you need to discuss your options further.

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

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