A Lesson in Student Safety Faucets Reduce Scalding Hazard for Michigan Middle School
The Challenge
Although kids may not be chronic handwashers, many parents encouraged hand hygiene since the pandemic began. But in fighting this hazard, there is a possible exposure to another one.
Hot tap water can be dangerous, especially for younger students. To maintain efficacy against germs in the plumbing system, many schools store water at temperatures up to 140° F. Such high temperatures can cause scalding within a half a second upon contact.
According to Wendy Shields, senior scientist at Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy scalding burns represent the most common type of burn for the pediatric population – making up 49.8% of burn cases among children less than 16 years old. Additionally, she notes, “there is a lack of awareness about this.”
Just east of Grand Rapids, MI, the steadily growing suburb of Grandville offers a school system for their population of over 16,000 that is among the best in the state. The district provides education in 16 different locations for its 5,600 students, including a robotics and engineering center as well as a robotics competition arena.
One contributing factor to the Grandville district school’s position in the top 5% of Michigan’s schools is its committed faculty, who works diligently with students to tailor an academic journey that aligns with their unique talents and interests.
While offering top-notch education is the primary mission for Grandville – and any school district -- ensuring student safety throughout the school day is equally critical. This commitment encompasses preventing hazards from classrooms to the gym to the playground.
“Scalding burns represent the most common type of burn for the pediatric population. ”
—Wendy Shields,
Senior Scientist at Johns Hopkins
Center for Injury Research and Policy
At Grandville’s seventh through eighth grade middle school, one pressing issue has been the water temperature from the taps in the school’s lavatories. Following the heightened awareness spurred by the massive pandemic of 2020, schools are promoting hand-washing hygiene to combat the spread of disease.
The Solution
Chicago Faucets 420 Series with Integrated Scald Protection
In compliance with federal, state, and local mandates, schools are installing scald protection products and Grandville Middle School is among them. To safeguard students during handwashing at the point of use, the Grandville Middle school has been installing the Chicago Faucet 420 series faucets in areas wherever handwashing happens.
The 420 Series manual faucet delivers water at a maximum of 105° F. With their rugged design and rigorous testing, these thermostatically protected faucets are certified to the latest ASSE 1070 code for lavatory projects. The integral temperature protection ensures that no anti-scald device will be overlooked during installation.
The valve responds to the temperature of the water. Although the school’s water heater is set to a maximum temperature of 140°F to guard against bacterial growth, the thermostatic mixing valve limits the water temperature at the tap. If the water temperature starts to exceed the pre-set limit, the valve closes to restrict water flow and prevent scalding.
“Chicago Faucets have become the district’s preferred choice for lavatories and other plumbing and mechanical needs. When the company introduced the 420 Series, it was an easy decision to replace existing faucets with this model.”
The maintenance team is enjoying additional benefits of the 420 Faucet’s overall functionality and appeal:
- Water Conservation with Low-Flow Options: The 420 Series single lever design faucet offers low-flow outlet options that support water conservation efforts. By reducing water usage without compromising performance, this feature makes the faucet an environmentally responsible choice, aligning with sustainability goals in educational institutions.
- Tamper-Resistant Design: The faucet’s tamper-resistant outlets are specifically designed to prevent vandalism and misuse, a crucial consideration for schools and other public spaces where durability and security are vital.
- Chrome-Plated Brass Construction: The faucet’s body is made from chrome-plated brass, a material known for its durability and reliability. This construction ensures that the faucet remains in excellent condition even with frequent use, which is typical in school settings.
- Reliable Operation with High-Quality Ceramic Cartridges: The 420 Series faucet is equipped with a high-quality cartridge that has been rigorously tested to meet ASME A112.18.1 and ANSI NSF 61 Section 9 standards. This ensures smooth and reliable operation over the long term.
- Ease of Installation: The design of the 420 Series significantly reduces installation time by over 50% compared to traditional faucets. The reduced number of connections eliminates six potential leak points, making it both a practical and efficient choice for maintenance teams.
These additional features further reinforce the 420 Series faucet as a top-tier solution for environments that require a blend of safety, durability, and efficiency.
Since adopting the Chicago Faucets 420 Series, Grandville Middle School students have been able to wash their hands without fear of scalding. Additionally, budget-conscious public schools’ benefit from the affordability of these faucets, which have also reduced maintenance expenses.
“The 420 Series faucets are well-built and durable, standing up to whatever the middle school students throw at them,” says Fred Wilks, Interim Maintenance Supervisor for Grandville Middle School.
Wilks also values the faucets’ aesthetic appeal and the simplicity of installation. By eliminating the need for a separate thermostatic valve, the faucet design significantly reduces installation time.
In addition to the 420 Series, the Grandville District has utilized other Chicago Faucet products. Wilks appreciates the quality of these fixtures, stating, “I have worked in K-12 maintenance for 16 years, and their faucets have proven to be long-lasting performers.”
“The 420 Series faucets are well-built and durable, standing up to whatever the middle school students throw at them. ”
—Fred Wilks,
Interim Maintenance Supervisor
