The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has announced a comprehensive review of Uganda Standard US 2388:2022 on the safety of saunas, steam baths and whirlpool baths, following a deadly explosion at a Buziga facility last month.
The blast, which ripped through Buziga Country Resort in Makindye Division on the evening of Sunday, August 24, left the building badly damaged and several people severely injured.
Among the victims was 69-year-old Hajjati Masitula, the vice chairperson of Katuuso village, who sustained burns to her chest, back and lower body.
This incident has reignited concerns over the safety of sauna facilities in the country, with UNBS stressing that it was not the first time such an explosion had occurred.
The bureau says the revision process is being spearheaded by two expert committees: UNBS/TC 408, responsible for Occupational Health & Safety, and UNBS/TC 415, which oversees Cosmetology and Wellness.
The committees are expected to introduce tougher measures covering risk management, equipment design and installation, staff training, and emergency response.
“Revision of the OHS requirements is aimed at preventing similar occurrences in the future by introducing stringent measures for risk management, equipment safety, worker training, and emergency preparedness,” UNBS said.
The changes will also require regular quality checks on safety equipment such as pressure-relief valves, as well as mandatory training for sauna operators.
“It will also enhance compliance to the Sauna and Steam bath standards by the operators, and regulation by the respective Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies,” the bureau added.
UNBS emphasized that the ultimate goal of the revised standard is to prevent explosions or structural failures while protecting operators, workers, and sauna users alike.
