The four main gas safety problems usually center on:

1. Gas leaks

2. Fires

3. Explosions

4. Carbon monoxide poisoning

   

It is crucial that you have a general understanding about the safety aspects concerning gas, however, the only action that you should take is to employ the services of a fully qualified Commercial gas engineer, at no point should an unqualified or inexperienced person attempt to fix a problem or to fit any equipment. When looking to employ a qualify engineer keep in mind these top 5 gas safety tips and also refer back to these points at a later date.

1. Always use a registered gas engineer to install, repair and service your gas appliances, these include: gas boiler, gas fire, hob or cooker, central heating system, radiators or hot water system. In no circumstances should you attempt to fix or fit these appliances yourself.

2. Always ask to see their card. All GAS SAFE registered engineers carry around an Gas Safe register I.D. card, it should have their photo on it and the work that they are qualified to partake in. It will also have a unique licence number that you can use to check that they are still on the register. Only allow an engineer to begin work after you have seen their I.D. card.

3. Check that your engineer is qualified to work on your gas appliance. As a paying customer, you are more than obliged to check that they are qualified to carry out all types of gas works. Ask to see their ID card, on the back there will be a list of qualifications that they are competent in. If they are not qualified to complete the job that you need, do not hesitate to cancel the work.

4. Get your appliances checked once a year, or in accordance with your manufacturer’s guidelines. As with all appliances, they can get damaged or simply deteriorate their accord, having them checked yearly may save you money and even your life.

5. Set up an audible, carbon monoxide alarm. On average 50 people a year are killed by carbon monoxide poisoning due to faulty home heating appliances. Fitting an alarm will make you aware of any poisonous carbon monoxide gas produced by unsafe gas appliances.
   

Remember, if you are unsure about anything, whether you think there’s a ‘funny smell’ of gas or you’re not sure if the engineer is qualified, go with your instincts. It is better to be safe than sorry.

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