Gas Servicing
Gas Safety Awareness – Know the Dangers!
What is carbon monoxide (CO)?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a poisonous gas, which can be given off by appliances that burn fossil fuels such as gas, coal, wood or oil.
If appliances are not installed, maintained and operating correctly, the flue/chimney is in anyway blocked or if the room is not ventilated adequately CO can be given off.
Most cases of CO poisoning can be attributed to un-burnt fuel, poor maintenance of appliances or blocked/defective flues and chimneys, i.e. birds nesting in the chimney, or possible damages to the flue system etc.
Why is (CO) so dangerous?
CO is a toxic gas which is difficult to detect as it is invisible, odourless, colourless and tasteless. However, its effects can often be fatal. On average, 30 people a year needlessly die from CO poisoning due to faulty heating appliances or flues.
Who is most at risk?
Some people mistakenly think that it is only gas fuelled appliances which can cause CO poisoning. In reality, it can happen with any fossil fuel burning system if that system, which includes both the appliance and the flue, is faulty or the room is not adequately ventilated.
People usually associate CO poisoning with rented accommodation – in fact there are more fatalities in owner-occupied rather than rented properties, as Landlords have a duty under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations (GSIUR) 1998 to maintain and have their appliances inspected for safety.
What signs to look for?
Regulation 36 (Duties of Landlords), of the GSIUR 1998
How to stay safe
Gas Servicing news article