Written Answer by Ministry of National Development on anti-slip treatment for bathroom tiles under EASE programme
Sep 13, 2016
Assoc Prof Daniel Goh Pei Siong: To ask the Minister for National Development with regard to the anti-slip treatment for bathroom tiles subsidised under HDB's Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme,
(a) how many households have benefitted from the treatment to date;
(b) what is the total cost to the Government for subsidising the treatment;
(c) what is the average life span of the treatment before a new treatment is required; and
(d) how has HDB responded to complaints about the treatment, if any.
Answer:
The Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme aims to make homes safer for the elderly. Eligible residents can select from three improvement items, comprising ramps to overcome single-step entrances, grab bars, and slip-resistant treatment to floor tiles for up to two toilets.
Specifically for the slip-resistant treatment to floor tiles of toilets, about 70,000 households have benefitted since the launch of EASE in July 2012. The Government has spent more than $10 million subsidising slip-resistant treatment to floor tiles.
Such treated floor tiles can typically last up to 5 years. However, the life span will also depend on the usage and frequency of cleaning. For example, the accumulation of excessive dirt or soap residue might reduce the effectiveness of the slip-resistant treatment.
HDB will investigate the feedback and complaints received on slip-resistant treatment of tiles. In cases where the slip-resistance has deteriorated due to accumulation of dirt or soap residue, residents will be advised on the appropriate methods of cleaning the tiles to upkeep the slip-resistant treatment. If the slip-resistance has pre-maturely deteriorated within the 1-year Defects Liability Period despite proper cleaning, HDB will request its contractors to rectify the situation.