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.