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Gas Safety Week 2024 | Hazards, the law and best practice for employers
Written on 2 September 2024
Gas-related hazards can lead to severe consequences, including fires, explosions, carbon monoxide poisoning, and significant financial losses. Implementing robust gas safety measures is therefore essential to protecting your employees, customers, and business assets.
Ahead of Gas Safety Week 2024, this blog recaps essential guidelines on gas safety to help businesses mitigate risks and comply with relevant regulations.
What gas safety hazards should employers be aware of?
The first step in managing gas safety is understanding the potential hazards associated with gas usage.
Common gases used in commercial settings include natural gas, propane, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). These gases are highly flammable and can pose serious risks if not handled properly. Additionally, leaks can lead to the accumulation of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide (CO), an odourless, colourless gas that can cause fatal poisoning.
Key risks associated with gas use include:
- Fire and explosion: Gas leaks can create explosive mixtures in the air, leading to devastating fires and explosions.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning: Faulty gas appliances or poor ventilation can cause CO buildup, which can be deadly if inhaled in high concentrations.
- Asphyxiation: In enclosed spaces, gas leaks can displace oxygen, leading to suffocation.
- Health hazards: Prolonged exposure to certain gases can cause respiratory issues, headaches, dizziness, and other health problems.
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What does the law require of employers?
Businesses must adhere to specific legal requirements and industry standards to ensure gas safety. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 place responsibilities on employers to ensure the safe installation, maintenance, and use of gas systems.
Key legal requirements include:
- Qualified engineers: Only Gas Safe registered engineers should carry out gas work, including installation, maintenance, and inspection.
- Regular inspections: Gas appliances, flues, and pipework should be regularly inspected and serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Record-keeping: Employers must keep detailed records of all gas safety inspections, maintenance, and repairs.
- Risk assessment: Conduct thorough risk assessments to identify potential gas hazards and implement appropriate control measures.
What are best practices for gas safety in the workplace?
Implementing best practices helps reduce risk to as low a level as reasonably practicable. These include:
- Schedule routine maintenance for all gas appliances, including boilers, ovens, and heaters.
- Ensure that all gas appliances are serviced annually by a Gas Safe engineer.
- Replace aging or faulty equipment to prevent leaks and malfunctions.
- Avoid DIY gas work; always use qualified professionals.
- Install gas detectors in areas where gas is used or stored. These devices can provide early warnings of gas leaks, allowing for timely action.
- Consider using carbon monoxide detectors, especially in areas with gas-fired appliances.
- Develop and communicate clear emergency procedures in the event of a gas leak or CO alarm.
- Ensure that employees are trained on how to shut off gas supplies, evacuate the premises, and contact emergency services.
- Regularly conduct emergency drills to reinforce these procedures.
- Ensure adequate ventilation in areas where gas appliances are used. Proper ventilation reduces the risk of gas accumulation and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check ventilation systems regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Provide regular training for staff on gas safety, including recognising the signs of a gas leak, understanding the risks of carbon monoxide, and knowing emergency procedures.
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the safe use, maintenance, and installation of gas appliances.
For more information, check out the HSE’s guidance: Gas safety for employers.
Need support?
WorkNest’s Health & Safety specialists can advise on whether your business has implemented robust gas safety measures and help you to identify actions. Contact our team on 0345 226 8393 or request your free consultation using the button below.
