Does servicing a boiler make it more efficient?

Yes, servicing a boiler can make it more efficient since your heating engineer will make sure each part is working as effectively as it should be.

Should you get your boiler serviced more often?

In most scenarios, having your boiler serviced once a year is enough to make sure that it is running as efficiently and safely as possible.

Bathroom Fittings that are Doc M Compliant

Doc M bathroom regulations put certain requirements and expectations on you as part of UK building regulations. It’s important to follow these regulations to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

This blog post aims to explain what it means to be Doc M compliant, what fittings are included in a Doc M pack, and how you can install a Doc M compliant bathroom.

What does it mean to be Doc M compliant?

Being Doc M compliant means that your building or premises meets the Document M approved standards in England. Doc M compliance means your building can be approached, entered, navigated and effectively used by all people independently, including people with mobility issues, in wheelchairs, or with other disabilities. Your building likely needs to be Doc M compliant.

Document M includes guidance on the installation and fittings required for toilets, bathrooms and washroom facilities, citing necessities such as raised toilets, washbasins/sinks suitable for seated use, grab rails, and more.

Pre-configured Doc M bathroom packs include all of the fixtures and fittings which are necessary to ensure a Doc M compliant washroom. This is especially important for commercial toilets and washrooms.

Bathroom fittings included in a Doc M pack

Document M packs for bathrooms include all of the essential fittings required for individuals for disabilities to be able to use. There are different types of Doc M packs designed for different purposes, ranging from standard toilet packs, to shower packs and accessory packs.

Doc M toilet pack contents

The main components of an accessible, Doc M compliant bathroom are as follows:

Toilet - Raised height toilet plan is designed for easier transfers.
Washbasin and taps - Easier to use taps (usually sequential mixer taps) and a hand rinse basin must be installed to be easy to access.
Grab rails - Specific hand/grab rails such as 600mm and 800mm hinged support rails may be included.
Cistern and flush - A spatula-type lever or flush plate must be installed, alongside a concealed or close-coupled cistern.
Toilet seat - ‘Ring-only’ toilet seats including adjustable buffers ensure secure seating for those with mobility challenges.

Note that there are also multiple types of toilet packages available, including close-coupled Doc M packs, low-level Doc M packs, back-to-wall Doc M packs, and wall-hung Doc M packs. Each of these requires expertise in plumbing to install safely and effectively, and Lacey Plumbing & Heating is experienced in Doc M installations.

Doc M shower pack contents

The purpose of a Doc M shower pack is to reduce slips and falls, as well as eliminating scalding risk. This means people with disabilities can shower safely and comfortably on your premises.

Typically, a Doc M shower pack will include the below fittings:

Shower valve and diverter - A specialised TMV3 thermostatic shower valve needs expert care during installation to prevent scalding. The diverter allows individuals to easily switch between a handheld and overhead shower.
Shower seat - Folding or fixed seat for safe use.
Grab rails - Straight and hinged support rails allow individuals to balance and move whilst showering.
Shower handset and overhead shower - Most shower packs include both a handset and overhead shower, catering for the needs of individuals with a variety of disabilities.
Sliding bracket - An easy-use bracket allows for safe adjusting on the handheld shower.

Again, all of these components need expert commercial plumbers to install them safely and within regulations.

The key to Doc M compliance

Doc M compliance is achieved through installers who are experienced in following the guidelines to a tee. This includes plumbers to install the cistern, wash-basin, toilet system and more. It may also need electricians for compliant lighting, and often even flooring specialists to ensure non-slip flooring and finishes.

Whilst it’s important to be aware of guidelines and responsibilities laid out as a commercial building owner/manager, it’s even more vital that you employ the help of a professional plumber to install and maintain Doc M bathrooms fittings. This is the only way to be sure that your bathroom fittings are entirely legally compliant, giving you the peace of mind that your building is suitable for all individuals.

Some Doc M guidelines even apply to residential buildings, however, with lower requirements regarding minimum space and accessibility, but not necessarily for other Doc M pack fixtures.

Contact Lacey Plumbing to Discuss Doc M Fittings

Doc M bathroom plumbing services

Doc M bathroom, washroom and shower installations need to be carried out by trained professionals with proper knowledge of the Doc M regulations. Lacey Plumbing goes above and beyond standard plumbing installation, ensuring water systems and sanitary fixtures are installed meet highly specific safety requirements and guidelines.

Specialist systems such as safety temperature controls and pipe lagging is crucial for ensuring a safe and sanitary washroom or bathroom, and that’s what the team at Lacey Plumbing & Heating are dedicated to delivering.

Get in touch for Doc M compliant fittings.

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