INTRODUCTION

Gas is generally a very safe fuel. But, as with all fuels, it should be treated with respect. Each year around 40 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by faulty or poorly installed gas appliances. (Carbon monoxide is difficult to recognize because it has no colour, no smell and no taste). Occasionally people are injured or killed in gas explosions and fires. By looking after your gas appliances through regular maintenance they will be safe, last longer and run more efficiently.

CHECKLIST - GAS SAFETY

Do you make your employees aware of the precautions to be observed with gas as follows:

· not to use appliances suspected of being faulty
· not to cover the appliances or block the vents
· not to block or obstruct any fixed YES ventilation grilles
· not to fit draught proofing strips to doors of a room containing a gas appliance
· emergency procedures

YES / NO
YES / NO
YES / NO
YES / NO
YES / NO

Do you use Corgi registered companies to install,repair or maintain your appliance?

YES / NO

HSE Gas Safety webpage

Talking leaflets

These files are provided in mp3 format,

INDG238 Gas appliances - get them checked, keep them safe

Health & safety law: What you should know

This page provides links to the home pages for both domestic gas and gas supply health and safety information.

Get Ready for Winter - Carbon Monoxide ‘The Silent Killer’

– HSE’s gas safety alert.

Domestic Gas Health and Safety

Every year about 30 people die from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gas appliances and flues which have not been properly installed or maintained.

Many others also suffer ill health. When gas does not burn properly, as with other fuels such as coal, wood or oil, excess CO is produced which is poisonous.

You can't see it, taste it or smell it but CO can kill without warning in just a matter of hours.

This website contains information gas consumers need to know in order to manage gas appliances/equipment safely and tells you what to do in an emergency. It also provides advice for landlords, and letting agents on how to comply with the law.

HSE free publications index

Gas Supply Health and Safety

Natural gas is distributed through a network of buried transmission and distribution pipes which total around 275000 km.

Gas releases have occurred as a result of mains failures but also as a result of accidental damage.

Under certain circumstances, these leaks can result in a fire or explosion, and although the number of major incidents has been low, the hazards are still serious.

REFERENCE/FURTHER DETAILS

1 Leaflet IND(G)79(L) Gas appliances - get them checked, keep them safe (HSE)
2 HSE gas safety website:

3 HSE gas safety advice line 0800 300363
4 The Council for Registered Gas Installers (GORGI) Telephone number: 01256 372300 website:

5 HSE website:

For further information please call (023) 9254 5505, 5506 or 5507 during office hours or call at the Town Hall, High Street, Gosport, Hampshire PO12 1EB.

Alternatively e-mail ehs@gosport.gov.uk any time