Sydney, Australia – A SafeWork NSW investigation has been launched following the tragic death of an 89-year-old woman who suffered severe burns after stepping into a scalding hot bath at her apartment on Sydney’s lower north shore in August 2022. The case highlights critical safety concerns regarding hot water temperature control in residential buildings and has prompted recommendations for improved plumbing regulations and oversight.
Judith “Judy” Ann Ingham, a pharmacist and recipient of an Order of Australia medal for her contributions to healthcare, died 26 days after sustaining burns to her armpit and back, covering 16% of her body. A neighbour, responding to her distress, used a spatula to remove the plug from the 70ºC (158ºF) bath to avoid burning his own hands, according to reports. The incident has sparked a coroner’s inquest and raised questions about the responsibility of plumbers to ensure safe hot water systems.
Coroner Rebecca Hosking handed down her findings on Tuesday, recommending that SafeWork NSW investigate Michael King, the operational manager of Hillier Plumbing. The investigation centers on allegations that Mr. King failed to install a temperature control device when he replaced the hot water system at Ms. Ingham’s apartment in April 2022 and did not notify SafeWork NSW following Ms. Ingham’s death.
Hot Water Safety Regulations and the Risk of Scalding
Current regulations require apartment block hot water systems to maintain a water temperature above 60ºC (140ºF) to prevent the growth of bacteria, such as Legionella. Yet, this high temperature poses a significant scalding risk if not properly regulated at the point of apply. Temperature control devices are designed to mix hot and cold water, ensuring that tap water does not exceed 50ºC (122ºF), a temperature considered safe for domestic use.
An inspection following Ms. Ingham’s burns revealed that the water temperature in the building reached a maximum of 73ºC (163ºF), significantly exceeding safe levels. This discovery prompted the building management to retain another plumbing company in September 2022 to install temperature control devices throughout the building.
The coroner’s inquest similarly revealed that Mr. King did not notify SafeWork NSW of Ms. Ingham’s death, a requirement under workplace health and safety laws. This failure to report the incident further contributed to the recommendation for investigation.
Recommendations for Improved Plumbing Safety
Beyond the investigation into Mr. King and Hillier Plumbing, Coroner Hosking also recommended that the Building Commission NSW enhance education for plumbers regarding hot water system safety. She specifically suggested requiring compliance certification for all work performed on hot water systems to ensure adherence to safety standards. This would provide a documented record of safety checks and installations.
Ms. Ingham’s case underscores the vulnerability of elderly and disabled individuals to scalding injuries. According to the Otago Daily Times, Ms. Ingham was a great-grandmother of 16 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Her passing has prompted calls for greater awareness of the risks associated with unregulated hot water temperatures and the importance of preventative measures.
The findings of the inquest are expected to lead to a review of current plumbing regulations and enforcement practices in New South Wales. SafeWork NSW has confirmed it will investigate the matter, but a timeline for the completion of the investigation has not yet been released. The Building Commission NSW has not yet commented on the coroner’s recommendations.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of inadequate safety measures in residential buildings and the critical role plumbers play in protecting vulnerable members of the community. The outcome of the SafeWork NSW investigation will be closely watched by industry professionals and advocates for consumer safety.
What comes next is the SafeWork NSW investigation into Hillier Plumbing and its operational manager, Michael King. The findings of that investigation will determine whether further action will be taken. The Building Commission NSW’s response to the coroner’s recommendations regarding plumber education and compliance certification will also be a key development to watch.
Share your thoughts on this important safety issue in the comments below.
