E001:08 10 January 2008

HSE statement following the inquest into the death of Rhianna Hardie, Taunton, Somerset

Following the conclusion of the inquest today, HSE’s Divisional Director for Wales and the South West, Terry Rose said:

"All incidents involving children are particularly tragic. I can not imagine the pain experienced by Rhianna’s parents. My personal sympathy, and that of HSE staff involved, is genuinely with them.

"The Penwith case, which was referred to during the inquest was, to our knowledge, the first and only other case involving a fatality. In 2002, we considered that the specific circumstances arising in this incident were a very rare occurrence and we believe we acted sensibly and proportionately.

"The Coroner has made specific observations about communications between central government departments and local authorities, and he will write to the Department of Communities and Local Government. HSE will consider these points. There are many lessons to be learned from this case by many parties.

"After Rhianna’s death, HSE consulted with other agencies involved with domestic hot water systems and in the light of our investigation issued a safety alert. I would like to take this opportunity to raise awareness of the rare but potentially serious scalding risk from domestic water systems.

"An overheating immersion cylinder will normally show obvious signs such as excessive noises, a very hot cylinder or airing cupboard, or hot water coming from cold taps. If you are aware of these signs, switch off the heater system and seek the help of a professional plumber. Tenants should alert their landlord."

Further information is in the HSE safety alert (see link below).

Notes to Editors

1. In July 2007 HSE released a press release and safety alert on the scalding risk from domestic hot water systems which can be found at http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2007/e07027.htm
2. HSE’s investigation into the circumstances of Rhianna Hardie’s death continues.

Press enquiries

Jennifer McGilvray 020 7717 6903
Out of hours 020 7928 8382

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HSE information and news releases can be accessed on the Internet www.hse.gov.uk