GAS SAFETY: ten essential tips for householders

The latest Gas Safety Week, organised by the Gas Safe Register, the official list of engineers legally allowed to work on gas, once again highlighted the importance of ensuring properties are safe and compliant with the latest legislation.

Here at Chinneck Shaw, we are proud to support the aims of the Week – the thirteenth annual one to be held – in championing gas safety and celebrating the essential work of gas engineers.

That’s because we know the downsides of badly fitted or poorly serviced gas appliances and the potentially deadly consequences when people with little or no experience take a DIY approach to a gas-related problem.

Risks include gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Here we set out ten top tips from our Property Management Team to help you stay safe with gas in your home:

– Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning; headaches, nausea, breathlessness, dizziness, collapse and loss of consciousness.

– Look out for warning signs your appliance may be unsafe, such as a lazy yellow flame instead of a crisp blue flame, error messages or unexpected noises from your boiler or dark and sooty stains around your gas appliance.

– Fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm to alert you in the event of any leak in your home.

– Make sure you leave vents unblocked as these are there to help your appliance work safely and efficiently.

– If you smell gas or think there might be a gas leak, call the free 24-hour national gas emergency number immediately on 0800 111 999.

– Never attempt to work on a gas appliance yourself, always seek the help of a qualified Gas Safe registered engineer.

– If you’re having your annual safety check, only employ a suitably qualified Gas Safe registered engineer to carry it out.

– Always ask to see your engineer’s Gas Safe ID card. Make sure you check the back of the card, which will state which gas appliances they are qualified to work on.

– If you are a landlord, remember you are legally obliged to make sure gas pipework, appliances and flues provided for tenants are maintained in a safe condition. That means an annual safety check by a Gas Safe registered engineer. You can set up a free email and/or text reminder so you don’t forget by visiting StayGasSafe.co.uk.

– Spread the word. Share vital gas safety information with friends, family and neighbours to make sure your community stays safe.

For more information and to find or check an engineer visit GasSafeRegister.co.uk.

For reassurance, the lettings and property management team at Chinneck Shaw continue to ensure clients’ properties are fully compliant in ever changing legislation and routinely organise gas safety checks as part of our fully managed service. If you have any questions regarding gas safety, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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