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Emollient Creams - The Hidden Fire Risks You Need to Know
By Jessie Samari
What are emollient creams?
Emollient creams are used to treat dry skin conditions and sensitive skin, including eczema and psoriasis. These creams help maintain healthy skin by hydrating and restoring its natural moisture. Acting as a protective barrier, they soothe irritation, soften rough areas, and make the skin feel more comfortable by supporting its natural balance.
Why are emollients a fire risk? 
The emollients typically contain ingredients such as paraffin, petroleum jelly, and oils, which are highly flammable. When these creams are applied to the skin, they can transfer to fabrics such as clothing, bedding, bandages, and furniture. Over time, this leads to residue build-up, significantly increasing flammability. If these contaminated materials are exposed to a flame or spark, they can ignite and burn rapidly, causing devastating consequences.
Are the fire risks of emollients being overlooked in healthcare?
The fire risks associated with skin creams emollients are often underestimated in the healthcare industry. Despite their frequent use, the products’ potential danger to people and the environment is not widely recognised. There has been a worrying rise in fire-related incidents within the care sector that have involved the use of emollient creams, some resulting in serious injuries and even fatalities. These creams should therefore be considered in your fire risk assessment. The risk should also be noted in a person’s individual care plan.
How to prevent and reduce fire risks
While it is not possible to eliminate fire risks, the following measures can significantly reduce them:
- Regular Cleaning: Frequently wash and change clothing, bedding, and other fabrics to minimise residue build-up.
- Smoking Awareness: Inform individuals using emollients of the dangers of smoking while the cream is on their skin or clothing.
- Avoid Naked Flames: Emollient users should stay away from open flames and smokers, as well as activities involving flames, such as cooking.
- Safe Distance from Gas Heaters: Maintain a minimum distance of one metre from gas heaters.
- Clothing Precautions: Loose clothing should be secured, such as rolling up sleeves when near potential ignition sources.
- Raise Awareness: Educate family members, friends, and other residents about the risks associated with emollient use.
Managing emollients in healthcare settings
For those working in healthcare environments, e.g. in care homes, the community, or hospices, it is crucial to address the fire risks posed by emollients during risk assessments. Both smokers and non-smokers are exposed to environmental risks, and proactive management is essential.
Here are steps to manage emollient safety effectively:
1. Staff training
Provide all healthcare staff with thorough training on the risks and safe handling of emollients.
2. Hand hygine
Ensure staff wash hands and change gloves after applying emollient creams.
3. Communication with prescribers
Inform prescribers about the risk assessments in place for emollient users.
4. Alternative options
Explore less flammable or non-flammable emollient alternatives for residents.
5. Safety notices
Display visible alerts for visitors about fire risks associated with emollients.
6. Regular risk assessnents
Review and update risk assessments annually or whenever the resident’s needs change.
7. Smoking policies
Implement or update smoking policies in residential settings.
8. E-cigarettes and vapes
Although not advisable, encourage the use of e-cigarettes or vapes as a safer alternative to traditional smoking.
Addressing smoking and fire risks
If a resident chooses to continue smoking despite being aware of the risks, healthcare providers must take a balanced approach. While individuals have the right to make their own decisions, providers have a duty of care to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents, staff and visitors.
To manage this situation effectively:
- Conduct personalised risk assessments to identify specific hazards.
- Update care plans to include tailored controls, such as supervised smoking in designated areas.
- Ensure all measures aim to reduce risks while respecting the resident’s independence.
- Ensure the person is closely supervised or monitored whilst they are smoking.
Want to learn more? Read the latest prosecution by HSE >
Final thoughts
Fire safety is a critical but less obvious consideration when managing emollient use in healthcare settings. By implementing robust policies, conducting thorough risk assessments, and raising awareness among staff, residents, and visitors, the risk of fire-related incidents can be significantly reduced.
Ultimately, safeguarding lives while respecting individual rights requires a proactive, informed, and compassionate approach. By working together, healthcare providers can create safer environments for everyone.
Services PHSC Offer
At PHSC, we bring 30 years of expertise in supporting the healthcare industry. Our services include comprehensive risk assessments, fire safety evaluations, and bespoke emollient risk assessments tailored to your business needs. Visit our healthcare sector and risk assessments pages for more information or call 01622 717700 and speak to our team today.
- Wash clothing at high temperatures to help break down and remove residues.
- Use powerful detergents specifically formulated to tackle grease and oil, as these are effective in dissolving residues.
- If emollient cream remains on clothing after washing, rewash until the residue noticeably decreases.
- Avoid fabric softeners, as they can coat fibres and trap residues, increasing the risk of fire.
- Clean your washing machine regularly to prevent grease build-up and maintain its efficiency.