Safety Matters with Gas

If you have gas supplied to your property, it is important to have a Gas Safety Check every year by a Registered Gas Safe Engineer.

Why should I have a Gas Safety Check every year?

Carbon monoxide gas is created when any fuel burns inefficiently and in the home or whilst on holiday this could be caused by faulty gas appliances, poor gas workmanship, inadequate maintenance and inappropriate use of fuel burning appliances e.g. using a BBQ in an enclosed space. Carbon monoxide is a silent killer; you can’t see it, taste it or even smell it. You literally do not know if it is there.

In the UK, it’s the law to use a Gas Safe Registered Engineer who is trained and qualified to fit, fix and check gas appliances or work with mains gas. And, it is the law that landlords in the UK ensure that their properties have annual gas safety checks. Some people qualify for free gas safety checks so it is worthwhile enquiring who qualifies with your gas supplier.

Your home and appliances may show no signs of producing carbon monoxide at all – that is why it is so important to have an annual Gas Safety Check.

However, there could be some signs that your gas appliances aren’t performing safely:

• The flame on your cooker should be crisp and blue. Lazy yellow or orange flames mean that you need to get your cooker checked.
• Dark staining around or on appliances.
• Pilot lights that frequently blow out.
• Increased condensation inside windows.

What should I do if I suspect I have a faulty gas appliance?

If you suspect that your gas appliances are faulty, you should contact the emergency gas helpline on 0800 111 999.

Should I fit a carbon monoxide audible alarm?

Yes! Audible carbon monoxide alarms tested to European Standards EN50291 are available from most DIY stores and online. They are not the same as smoke alarms.

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning?

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headaches, dizziness, nausea, breathlessness, collapse and loss of consciousness.

What to Do If You Smell Gas or Suspect a Gas Leak:

• Get fresh air immediately. Open windows and doors.
• Switch off the gas appliance and turn off the gas at the mains. Make yourself familiar with location of isolation point.
• Call the National Gas Emergency number 0800 111 999. Give your name, phone number, description of the leak, and its’ location.
• If you are feeling unwell or suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get to a hospital immediately.
• Do not use your gas supply until you have had your property checked by a Gas Safe Registered engineer.

For further information on finding Gas Safe Registered engineers and more detailed information about gas safety click here.