ASTA BEAB Launches 'CARE Mark'

ASTA BEAB Certification Services have launched the BEAB CARE Mark to demonstrate a new safety standard for electrical goods used by elderly and disabled people.

The first product area for which a standard has been developed to gain CARE Mark approval is electric showers. The standard has been developed by the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA), in co-operation with leading manufacturers.

To prevent scalding, the need for safe hot water temperature limits within accepted tolerance levels has been clearly identified as a requirement for vulnerable members of the population who may have limited manoeuvrability or limited ability to react to quickly changing situations.

Manufacturers are improving existing technology by introducing microprocessors that combine accurate water temperature control with easy-to-use operational features enabling these exacting standards to be achieved. ASTA BEAB, the UK's leading provider of electrical product certification, has developed a rigorous Special Test Schedule, and application of the new CARE Mark will demonstrate compliance with the new Standard.

The CARE Mark can only be applied to products that have existing ASTA BEAB Approval and comply with the relevant European Safety Standard as well as additional safety and performance requirements such as those outlined for water heaters.

"Safe operation is clearly a key consideration in the care environment and we are delighted to facilitate improvements in safety in this important area through the development of the CARE Mark," said Mike Vint, ASTA BEAB CEO. "We plan to continue work with manufacturers to develop other standards relevant to appliances used in the care sector and to which the CARE Mark can be applied."

The introduction of the new CARE Mark has received support by the National Care Forum, which was formed earlier this year to represent the interests of not-for-profit health and social care providers throughout the United Kingdom. Its Director Des Kelly said: "Health and Safety is a crucial aspect of good care in all settings and for all service users. The National Care Forum supports the introduction of the ASTA BEAB CARE certified mark as a comprehensive standard to meet the additional requirements for water heaters used in care services."

It is expected to become a requirement for purchasers and specifiers in care homes, hospitals and hotels, and will be strongly recommended to people with special needs living in their own homes.

For more information on how to obtain the ASTA BEAB Care Mark for your products, please contact us on +44 (0)1483 455466, or by email at info@astabeab.com