According to studies, adults will incur first degree burns after ______ of contact with water at 60 degrees Celsius.

The correct answer is related to the known thermal injury thresholds of human skin. According to research and safety standards, water at a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius can cause first-degree burns to human skin with relatively short exposure. The studies indicate that skin can suffer from first-degree burns following only 2 seconds of direct contact with water at this temperature.

First-degree burns are characterized by redness and minor inflammation, affecting only the outer layer of skin (the epidermis). This quick onset of skin damage emphasizes the importance of maintaining safe water temperatures in plumbing systems, particularly in settings where individuals may accidentally come into contact with hot water, such as in residential or healthcare environments.

Understanding this information is critical for assessing risks related to water temperatures and implementing safety measures to prevent thermal injuries in plumbing systems.