GAS & THE LAW

People who do not work directly on gas installations or appliances, but who work in areas where there are implications for gas safety - such as architects, builders and local authorities working with flues and venting - have a general duty of care under civil law. They should refer to the appropriate regulations covering their work. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 place specific duties on gas users, installers, suppliers and landlords.

The regulations place a number of restrictions on gas appliances installed in bathrooms, shower rooms and bedrooms which are detailed and prescriptive. It is illegal to install instantaneous water heaters, which are not room sealed or fitted with a safety device that automatically turns the gas supply off before a dangerous level of poisonous fumes builds up.

For further information please call the Health and Safety Executive Gas Safety advice line on 0800 300 363 (or 0800 032 0121 in Northern Ireland).