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Gas

Precautions you can take and laws you must comply with when working with gas

The word 'gas' can be used to describe the physical state of many substances however, the following guidance focuses specifically on the safe use of gas as a fuel in the workplace. It is commonly used as a fuel for heating, cooking, welding, cutting and for processing products. Anywhere a flame is needed.

Use the links below to find information on common gas hazards and how to assess these, precautions you can take and your legal obligations.

  1. Common gas related hazards
  2. Gas safety precautions
  3. Gas safety legislation

3. Gas safety legislation

In addition to the duties placed on employers and those who control premises, under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 and associate legislation, there are a number of legal duties relating to the safe use of gas as a fuel in the workplace.

The​ Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998

These regulations place duties on

  • employers
  • gas users
  • installers
  • suppliers
  • landlords. 

You can download a copy of the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and guidance that gives practical advice on these regulations on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)​ site. 

Visit the HSE site for Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations​​​

Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996

This states that detailed records should be kept of any maintenance work carried out on gas pipe work, appliances and flues. Engineers will issue certificates for any work they carry out.

Visit the HSE site for Gas Safety (Management) Regulations

Landlords

Landlords have specific responsibilities for the safety of their tenants. This includes making sure that all gas appliances, fittings and flues provided for tenants are safe. As a landlord you are also responsible for regular maintenance and repair of new or existing flues, appliances and pipework. 

Any work and annual gas safety checks must be carried out by a Gas Safe engineer.

You must keep a record of annual safety checks for 2 years and issue a copy to each tenant within 28 days of the check. 

You can find full details of landlords' responsibilities on the HSE website and the ​Gas Safe Register website.