Gas

The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 aim to safeguard the public from the dangers arising from the use of gas, although they also set out some duties for employers.

Employers must ensure that gas-fitting work is carried out by a competent person. This must be someone who is, or is employed by, an organisation that is registered with the Gas Safe Register (www.gassaferegister.co.uk) and has therefore undergone suitable training and has sufficient experience.

Gas fittings must be of good construction, sound material, of adequate strength and size and appropriate for the type of gas being used. The installation of lead pipes is prohibited and there are controls on the use of non-metallic pipes and fittings. Steps must be taken to prevent the release of gas during work on a gas fitting and fittings must be sealed and tested for gas tightness after work is completed. The use of ignition sources is prohibited where there is a risk of fire or explosion.

Gas fittings must be protected from damage due to corrosion, or blockage by dust or dirt. Where alterations are made to premises where gas is used, the health and safety implications have to be taken into account. New gas supplies must have an emergency control provided, which can be the meter control if there is a meter.

The regulations also set out detailed requirements on:

• meters and meter housings and safe use of pipes;

• gas appliances — new gas appliances should conform to the Gas Appliances (Safety) Regulations 1995. These require that appliances are installed in compliance with the gas instructions. Employers must not use or permit the use of any unsafe appliance; and

• maintenance.