Registered Gas Engineer magazine, May 2021 issue by Registered Gas Engineer

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Issue 146 May 2021

Dsylexia

Is it more common than you think in gas engineers?

Illegal gas work How you can help Gas Safe protect your own livelihood

Water treatment New rules are coming on heating system treatment

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

In this issue 06 Gas Safe News

How does this magazine decide what information you need to know every month? PLUS Reminder to preserve the expiry date on landlords’ gas safety records

30 Water treatment and storage

The upcoming revisions to Part L are expected to make it mandatory to treat the water in heating systems every year; How do the Backflow Regulations affect the work you do? Looking back at 100 years of Heatrae Sadia

08 News

WRAS separates into two businesses; First 100 per cent hydrogen boilers go on display to the public; Fake fitter pressured vulnerable customer for more money

38 Low carbon

What’s the role of solar thermal on the road to net zero? PLUS Upskilling to become competent in renewables could lead to more business for you

13 Profile

We meet John Allen, the gas engineer who has his own solution to the looming skills crisis – his grandson Levi

42 Products

The latest launches from Worcester Bosch, Navien, Viessmann and Sentinel

14 The good, the bad and the ugly

28 Dyslexia

19 Letters

22 Industry Standard Update 103

Issue 146 May 2021

Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 1 Part 4: 2021 – Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/Mounded LPG Storage Vessels

Thousands of gas engineers are living with dyslexia, whether or not they’ve been formally diagnosed. Gas engineer Paul Hull says more needs to be done to support them in their working lives

24 Technical

Gas safety and Building Regulations (compliance certificates) – what you need to notify, and why

26 Illegal gas work

What Gas Safe Register is doing about it, what you should do when you find it, and how reporting illegal gas work can help to protect your business

20 Technical

The standards that apply and guidance on gas safety in mobile and holiday park accommodation

Win Page 47

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www.gassaferegister.co.uk 05

How do we kn

FROM THE EDITOR

Comment

he Green Homes Grant was withdrawn at the end of March, just six months after it had started. It had come in for a good deal of criticism, not least by the government’s own Environment Audit Committee, which described its implementation as botched and called for a major overhaul – just days before it closed. What went wrong? Was it the lack of installers willing to put themselves through the red tape of the required accreditation process? The knock-on effect on consumers, who couldn’t find an installer when they wanted one? Or was it that many of those who had carried out work found themselves out of pocket because of delays in payment? The result was that just 10 per cent of the scheme’s 600,000 first-year target installations were achieved. The government says funding will now be diverted to local authorities, extending the Local Authority Delivery Scheme and targeting low-income households. But stop-start incentives and ever-changing policies are a problem. We know the ambition and appetite are there for people to consider a shift to low-carbon technologies. But scaling up delivery at the rate needed to achieve net-zero carbon by 2050 will only come when people can have confidence that things won’t keep changing.

e often get asked what drives the topics and content in this magazine. The answer is: you do. The essential technical information, the latest on wider industry news, specific sectorfocus areas, as well as updates and information from Gas Safe, are all guided by your questions and feedback to the magazine and to the Register itself. If you’ve contacted the Register, the chances are that you’ve spoken to someone in

the Customer Contact Team or to the Technical Team. When the Customer Contact Team receive repeated queries on the same topic, we know that it’s something that we need to cover in this magazine and about which we should provide further or updated information. On these pages, you’ll see short reminder articles about how you can get access to a wide range of essential gas safety standards from Gas Safe Register via a subscription

Nicki Shearer, editor The quickest way to reach the magazine team is via email. Gas Safe Register, PO Box 6804, Basingstoke, RG24 4NB. Email: enquiries@gassaferegister.co.uk, register@gassaferegister.co.uk or technical@gassaferegister.co.uk

Why do I have to pay to access industry standards?

Managing editor: Scott Darroch scott.darroch@gassaferegister.co.uk Editor: Nicki Shearer editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk News: Jennie Ward news@registeredgasengineer.co.uk Publisher: Peter McCreary publisher@registeredgasengineer.co.uk Technical consultants: Gary Aymes, Carl Banister, Graham Kidd, David Smith, Jonathan Stirling Production: Mark Turpin Advertising enquiries only: Ian Carter ian@rgemagazine.co.uk The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Gas Safe Register. The publishers will accept an advertisement or other inserted material only on the condition that the advertiser warrants that such advertisement does not in any way infringe copyright or contravene the provisions of the Trade Descriptions Act. All copy is subject to the approval of the publisher, who reserves the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to it at its absolute discretion and without explanation. All advertisements must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice. ABC membership approved 19 March, 2009. Calls to phone numbers starting 084 and 087 cost up to 7p per minute plus your service provider’s charge.

Registered Gas Engineer is written, designed and published by The Team on behalf of Gas Safe Register. 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ

CIRCULATION:

Jan-Dec 2020

77,332 06 May 2021

The standards that apply to gas work, sometimes known as the normative standards, are owned by their issuing bodies: the British Standards Institution, IGEM and Liquid Gas UK. They are not owned by Gas Safe Register. However, Gas Safe provides a subscription service so that you can access a selection of relevant standards at a significantly reduced cost than they would be to buy individually: this is part of a joint offering with the issuing bodies. Through the subscription to standards service, you can view online and print at home more than 80 normative documents that set the standards for safe gas work. These documents are provided by IGEM, BSI and Liquid Gas UK. When documents are updated or changed, they are updated automatically through the subscription service at no additional cost. A subscription for one year costs £99.00, or £249 for three years. • To find out more and to subscribe, just log into your online account at www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk/sign-in

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | GAS SAFE REGISTER NEWS

ow what you need? service, and about preserving the expiry dates on landlords’ gas safety records. We’ve included these articles because you’ve recently contacted the Register for clarity or for more information. Similarly, the Technical Team get a lot of enquiries from gas engineers – that’s what they’re there for – and if a specific query crops up repeatedly, then the magazine works with them to write articles that provide more information. This month, the Technical feature on leisure accommodation vehicles is included because the Technical Team have been asked for more information about gas equipment and motorhomes, but also because the easing of Covid-19 restrictions means a return to holidays that are more likely to be taken in the UK. The Technical Team also work with industry committees and external stakeholders including manufacturers to write

and update the Industry Standard Updates and Technical Bulletins that are critical for you to stay up to date with any changes in standards or guidance. We know how highly you value this information through analysis of visitors to both this magazine’s website and that of Gas Safe Register. Gas Safe Register’s Open Channel events are a way that you can have a conversation with the Register about wider industry topics that affect you. Whether you send questions in advance or you ask them during the event, the expert panel aim to cover the things that you want to know. Recent topics have included the updated guidance on Unsafe Situations, the role of LPG and hydrogen. We always follow up these discussions with more in-depth information in this magazine too. But one other big contributor to the shape of the magazine is

you. Every month we receive dozens of photos of the gas work you’ve found in the course of your day and we try to use as many of them as we can. You also get in touch because you want to share your own experiences with others, and in this issue we talk to Derbyshire gas engineer John Allen, who wanted people to know why he thinks it’s important that younger and older gas engineers should work together. Read it your way Don’t forget that there are three ways to read this magazine: in print, in app and online. If you don’t already receive your own printed copy every month, did you know that you can get a full digital edition every month using the free app on your phone and tablet? Just search for Registered Gas Engineer on your preferred app store, and enter your Gas Safe registration number the first time

you use it. Then you’ll have an archive of the past 10 full editions with you wherever you go and we’ll notify you when a new issue is ready to read. You can also stay up to date with the latest news from Gas Safe Register and around the industry at www. registeredgasengineer.co.uk and on Twitter at @RGEMag.

Reminder to preserve the expiry date on landlords’ gas safety records Gas Safe Register is reminding gas engineers that the expiry date on a landlord’s gas safety record should be preserved for 12 months, even when the check has been carried out earlier than this. The Register has heard in some instances that gas engineers carrying out a gas safety record check a month before 12 months have elapsed are then incorrectly filling in the expiry date on ‘next gas safety check due before’ as just a month later, rather than 13 months ahead. Gas Safe Register guidance states: “Regulations introduced in April 2018 allow a landlord to arrange for a gas safety check to be carried out any time from 10 to 12 calendar months after

the previous check while still preserving the original check expiry date.” It adds: “Where a gas safety check is carried out less than 10 months or more than 12 months

after the previous gas safety check, this will have the effect of ‘resetting the clock’ and the new deadline date will now be 12 months from the date of this latest gas safety check.”

Pledge your support now for Gas Safety Week 2021 to stay up to date on how you can be part of the annual national safety campaign. 13-19 September 2021 www.gassafetyweek.co.uk

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 07

Meet the heating firm with a social conscience James Hunt is turning the profits from his new business into a lifeline for poor, vulnerable and hungry people: the ex-soldier has set up Cafgas, a heating company that has a social conscience. The community interest company (CIC) will pump money into good causes across North Wales and Cheshire, including feeding homeless people, reaching the lonely and disabled and helping service veterans. All profits from installing, repairing and servicing boilers, carrying out gas safety checks, and fitting bathrooms will pay for

outreach work by in-house community organisation Nanny Biscuit. Nanny Biscuit was set up in 2018 in memory of James’s grandmothers Jean Simmonds and Else Hunt, who used to give him biscuits when he was growing up. James, from Shotton, says: “The vision is to become one of the biggest plumbing and heating companies in the North-west and North Wales within five years, with all of its profits helping the most vulnerable in our community: the homeless, the elderly, armed service veterans and hungry families.”

WRAS separates into two new businesses The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) has separated its subscriptions and approvals activities into two separate businesses: Water Regs UK and the Water Regulations Approvals Scheme (WRAS). The move follows an internal review and a series of in-depth surveys of members, stakeholders and subscribers. These findings prompted the launch of the Water Regs UK and the Water Regulations Approvals Scheme businesses and clarify their services. Water Regs UK is focusing on promoting compliance with the Water Fitting Regulations and Bylaws across the UK to protect customers. The new business is funded mainly by water companies and enables collaboration between them, as well as sharing industry learning, experience and good practice. It also acts as a hub to communicate information about the water regulations. Water Regs UK is responsible for running the Water Industry Approved Plumber Scheme (WIAPS) on behalf of 14 water suppliers in England and Wales. The new Water Regulations Approvals Scheme business 08 May 2021

is funded by manufacturers and applicants and is responsible for approving plumbing products and materials, and maintaining a directory of more than 9,000 products and 3,000 materials. Julie Spinks, managing director of the Water Regs UK, says: “The launch of the new dedicated Water Regs UK business means we can further improve the support we provide to subscribers. It’s an opportunity to increase our profile among stakeholders and consumers, which will further build awareness and understanding of the water regulations and why they should be followed.” Ian Hughes, approvals manager for the Water Regulations Approvals Scheme, says: “Our vision is to be the most trusted independent UK certification body for plumbing products and materials, helping business and consumers choose compliant products that keep water safe. “The launch of Approvals as a dedicated business allows us to focus exclusively on that goal and offer one route to demonstrate compliance with the regulations.” www.wrasapprovals.co.uk www.waterregsuk.co.uk

Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, Nanny Biscuit and its 50 volunteers have helped thousands of people. They have provided food parcels from the community centre warehouse, made buddy phone calls, provided 30,000 meals for homeless people and organised socially distanced care home music concerts. James says: “We’ve helped people whose food cupboards were completely bare during lockdown, including a man who hadn’t eaten in three days. That’s why we want to futureproof the good work that Nanny

Biscuit does for years and decades to come by funding it through Cafgas CIC profits. “When someone gets Cafgas to fix a leaky boiler or fit a new washing machine, that customer is giving something back to their local community because their bill helps pay for the wide range of brilliant outreach work that Nanny Biscuit does seven days a week, without a cost to them.”

First 100% hydrogen boilers to go on public show Baxi Heating and Worcester Bosch boilers are being used in the UK’s first public demonstration of a 100 per cent hydrogen home. The project aims to demonstrate the use of hydrogen appliances in a real-world setting for heating, hot water and cooking in UK homes. The semi-detached properties have been built in partnership with Northern Gas Networks and Cadent at NGN’s Low Thornley site, near Gateshead. Alongside the hydrogen boilers, prototypes of hydrogen-fuelled fires, cookers and hobs are installed by partners working with BEIS on Hy4Heat. This real-world demonstration of the technology marks a step-change for the boiler manufacturers’ progression of hydrogen from lab to field, as more appliances are installed in trial projects across the UK and Europe.

Karen Boswell, managing director at Baxi Heating UK and Ireland, says: “We are hugely proud to be a part of another ground-breaking hydrogen heating project and remain at the forefront of low-carbon development.” Carl Arntzen, CEO of Worcester Bosch, adds: “The Hydrogen House project will help spearhead the safe implementation of hydrogen gas into the gas network and ultimately our homes. The trials under way there are an important step towards a zero-carbon future and we’re proud that our hydrogen boiler prototype is playing a pivotal part.” Stella Matthews, business development manager at Northern Gas Networks, says: “The boilers look and feel just like those we use today with one key difference – they don’t create carbon when used.”

No more single-use plastics for Wolseley Wolseley Plumb & Parts is aiming to eliminate single-use plastics in all areas of its business. Customers will be offered cardboard boxes and paper bags in all branches where possible, not only reducing the dependency on plastic but also so that the packaging can be recycled easily afterwards. Where paper bags are not suitable, the company will be introducing reusable bags at its trade counters. Environmental manager Helen Holly says: “We are proud to lead the charge in encouraging the adoption of new processes and an industry-wide shift away from single-use plastics.”

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Fake fitter pressured vulnerable customer for more money An illegal gas fitter has been given a suspended prison sentence after he falsely claimed to be registered, carried out unsafe gas work and pressured a vulnerable customer into making additional payments. Luton Crown Court heard that Sam Buggins, from Letchworth Garden City, trading as Infinity Heating and Plumbing, had come to the attention of Central Bedfordshire Trading Standards in 2018, following several complaints by residents. Trading Standards, prosecuting, said its investigation found that Mr Buggins had claimed falsely to a number of people in Stotfold, Bedfordshire, that he was Gas Safe registered. In fact, he had been removed from the Register. He had installed a gas fire in Dunstable in an unsafe manner, with the standard of workmanship falling below fair and reasonable expectations.

The gas fireplace opening was greater than the dimensions given by the manufacturer’s instructions, and so the fireplace opening was not fully sealed, nor had the pipework been sealed in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, the gas pipework in the catchment space had not been protected, combustible wood was found within the fireplace opening, and the top of the fire was screwed to the wood.

Engineer forged employer’s details on kebab shop record A gas engineer who faked the registration details on a gas safety certificate for a takeaway business has been given a suspended prison sentence. Exeter Crown Court heard that, on 16 March 2019, Peter Strudwick carried out a commercial gas safety check at a kebab takeaway business in Bitten Road, Teignmouth. He was working illegally and used his employer’s Gas Safe registration number on the paperwork. His employer, a major commercial gas catering company, was unaware of his work. Concerns had been raised when an officer from Teignbridge District Council attended the takeaway regarding gas safety issues and found irregularities. The takeaway was issued with an Improvement Order. Subsequent visits by qualified and registered gas engineers found numerous concerns with the appliances, including gas

escapes, which were classified as Immediately Dangerous. The HSE, investigating, found that Mr Strudwick had been Gas Safe registered some years previously but was not at that time registered or competent to carry out the gas safety check at the takeaway and did not have his own registration number. Peter Strudwick of Palk Close, Shaldon, Teignmouth, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 3(3) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 as amended and Section 33(1)(l) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. He was sentenced to 10 months in prison for each offence, suspended for 12 months. Speaking after the hearing, HSE inspector Simon Jones said: “Mr Strudwick falsely used his employer’s Gas Safe Register details to deceive people into believing his work was legitimate.”

Mr Buggins had also taken money to install a premium boiler, but instead fitted a cheaper one of lower quality. As the investigation progressed, the Trading Standards team was contacted by Hertfordshire County Council to also investigate complaints from Hertfordshire residents. The court heard that Mr Buggins had undertaken aggressive commercial practices and had pressured a disabled, vulnerable customer into making additional payments beyond what had been agreed, and then failed to do any of the work. The customer had to find an additional £1,200 from their disability benefits to pay another trader to complete the work. Alex Buggins, 33, of the Rundels, Letchworth Garden City, pleaded guilty to five counts of Misleading Actions and one Count of Aggressive Commercial Practices under

The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008. He was sentenced to 12 months in prison, suspended for two years, 20 days’ rehabilitation activity and a three-month curfew between 5am and 8pm. He was ordered to pay £1,200 compensation to his victims. Executive member for Community Services, Councillor Ian Dalgarno, said after the case: “We are committed to disrupting rogue trader activity and protecting our communities. Our officers will conduct robust investigations where there is evidence of wrongdoing. Carrying out gas safety work when you are not registered as competent to do so is extremely serious and this could have endangered lives. Luckily, in this instance no one was hurt, and we were pleased to be able to obtain justice for all of his victims, both in Central Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire.”

To report illegal gas work please call 0800 408 5577 or go to www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk/reportillegal

Lapsed engineer terminated boiler chimney in loft A lapsed gas engineer who carried out gas work that was Immediately Dangerous has been given a suspended prison sentence. Liverpool Magistrates’ Court heard that John Atherton, from Skelmersdale, Lancashire, had fitted a new gas boiler and central heating system at a domestic property in St Helens, Merseyside, in November 2018. He fitted the boiler and left the chimney/flue terminating in the loft, which meant that products of combustion could enter the property, and resulted in the boiler being left in an Immediately Dangerous condition. The HSE investigation found that Mr Atherton implied that he was Gas Safe registered but, in fact, his registration when working for a former employer had lapsed the previous month. Because his registration had lapsed, he was working illegally. John Atherton of Hallcroft, Skelmersdale, pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 3(3) and 26(1) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 as amended. He was sentenced to 26 months in prison, suspended for one year, ordered to carry out 200 hours of community service, and pay costs of £2,000. www.gassaferegister.co.uk 09

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Could microwaves heat our homes? Microwaves could be one way for the UK’s boilers to go green, says energy tech company Heat Wayv, which has unveiled its plans for a microwave boiler that it says could reduce CO2 emissions by up to 24 per cent. The boilers are in engineering design now and are not available yet but the company is aiming to have them ready for installation before 2025, the year in which fitting gas boilers in new homes will be banned in England. Heat Wayv says the appliances heat water using the same microwave technology that is already used in more than 90 per cent of homes. With a similar overall size, cost and throughput to current gas boilers, it’s aimed to be a plumb-in

replacement for existing appliances. “The end of the gas boiler is inevitable and scheduled,” says co-founder Phil Stevens. “But the proposed replacement technologies do not work for consumers as they are either too expensive to install or too expensive to run. We looked for a clean technology where the boiler would cost the consumer the same to buy, install and run as a gas boiler. “The answer is the microwave boiler as it is a trusted technology in our homes already and one that can be brought to market before the 2025 gas boiler shut-down begins.” The boilers are designed to be networked into an IoT (Internet of

Things) configuration, where they could be used collectively as a national battery at times of oversupply from renewable energy such as wind, and where excess electrical energy could be stored as hot water for later use. The microwave boiler uses technology similar to that found in kitchen microwave ovens: the boiler uses a specific frequency to transfer energy to individual water molecules and so heat the water. A combination of sequential pulse-width modulation and specialist materials provide what is effectively continuous heating that uses less power. A multi-blade assembly heats the water through a proprietary system where flow rates are

determined by sensors and AI-based controllers, ensuring consistent temperature. Where energy is inevitably lost to the surroundings, a turbo charge approach recycles this energy back into heating the water. The boiler claims an overall energy efficiency of 96 per cent. www.heatwayv.com

Esi acquired by Addtech Group Esi Controls Ltd has been bought by Addtech Power Solutions, part of the Swedish Addtech Group. Buckingham-based Esi Controls designs and delivers energy efficient electronic controls for heating and smart building applications. “We’re delighted with the news that we are joining the Addtech Group and it’s great to know we will have the strength and expertise that the group offers, supporting us as we strive to build this business even further than we have to date,” says new MD Tristan James. Esi recently launched its latest 6 series Wi-Fi programmable room thermostat, providing heating control for homes and commercial premises.

Baxi to support Kickstart

Heat pump takes centre stage in Vaillant TV ads Vaillant has unveiled the second instalment of its TV ads, with the aroTHERM plus heat pump in a starring role. The homeowner awareness campaign focuses on heat pumps as a sustainable heating technology. The latest ‘Why Wait’ TV ad is airing on on-demand platforms All 4 and Sky AdSmart over the coming months. It will continue to play an important role in raising consumer awareness of how a heat pump can help heat homes 10 May 2021

efficiently and effectively, says Vaillant, and how it is an existing and proven technology from which homeowners can benefit today. Marketing director Alice Woolley says: “With a clear direction towards a low-carbon future for our industry, at Vaillant we remain committed to supporting installers through our range of sustainable heating solutions, whether that’s an energy efficient boiler or heat pump.”

Baxi says it will be taking part in the government’s Kickstart work placement scheme for young people. Successful applicants will receive customer service training and coaching and will then work as part of the customer service team, providing support for gas engineers, and enhanced aftercare for customers. Following the initial six-month placement, the young people will be able to continue working at Baxi if they wish, choosing a career in marketing, IT, sales, engineering or R&D. Customer service director Louise Murton says: “Baxi is committed to supporting young

people into employment and through this scheme we hope to discover and nurture new talent. “This will not only help to address the skills gap and increase workforce diversity, but ensure that our valued installers have even more support from our Baxi customer service teams.”

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PROFILE

Youth versus experience John Allen contacted us after he read the results of our reader survey, which showed that many gas engineers are older and so may be thinking about retiring. Here, he talks to Registered Gas Engineer about the benefits of older and younger gas engineers working together, and the importance of apprentices.

ohn Allen has his own solution to what’s been described as a looming skills crisis in the plumbing and heating industry: his grandson. Although 65-yearold John says he has no intention of retiring any time soon, his grandson Levi is already working alongside him at John Allen Plumbing and Heating in Ilkeston, Derbyshire.

what materials I want, order them and get the materials ready. You can work and know how long it’s going to take to do the job for a change. It’s less stressful.” Levi’s help is invaluable, he says, and their age gap means that he brings a different dynamic and approach to their work, especially when it comes to tracking down the parts needed

“School said: ‘Why are you doing something like this? You can do a lot better’. That just gave me the push to prove them wrong.” Levi isn’t fully qualified yet: at just 18, he’s studying Level 2 Plumbing and Heating at Roundhouse Derby College one day a week and working alongside granddad for the other four days. “Levi started with me after leaving school in 2018,” says John. “He’s learning gas with me every day, and when he’s ready I’ll be ringing Gasgain in Mansfield and getting him sorted for the gas training so he can push on and become Gas Safe registered.” They plan to work together in their local area. Although John has been a gas engineer and plumber for many years, it’s only in the past six years that he’s had his own company. “I was with Erewash Borough Council for well over 30 years,” he says. “And then my work was amalgamated with a housing association. I was with them for around six years but working for a housing association is not the same as working for the council. “Now I enjoy the fact that I can call one day, look at a job, know

for a job. “I can just find them straight away for him on my phone, which is a massive help,” says Levi. “Before, he couldn’t find them sometimes.” John says: “I have learned a lot: it works both ways – you do pick up on new technology. Sometimes you can get a bit stagnant in your working ways and then somebody says, hang on, why don’t we do it this way? There’s another way of doing things.” In return, John brings his wealth of technical knowledge and experience in dealing with customers. Levi says: “He doesn’t get pressured; he’s calm. He explains everything to you and makes sure you understand. I’ve learned loads about people skills and communicating, confidence, and coming on to jobs and seeing how things work. “It does make things a bit easier because he’s my granddad. We get on and we have a laugh and I can talk to him about everything.”

Like many other young tradespeople, Levi passed his exams at school, which wanted him to carry on in further education, eventually going to university. But he knew he wanted to join his grandad. “I like being hands on and getting involved, but my school said, ‘why are you doing something like this? You can do a lot better’. That just gave me the push to prove them wrong.” John makes sure that Levi is learning his trade from the ground up, taking a thorough and methodical approach and working hard. It’s how John learned his trade, when he used to go to college one day a week on day release from 9am until 9pm, and then working for four days plus Saturday mornings. “Levi finishes at 4.30pm but he has to do his research. We had books but he can do it online. The learning side of things has come

on immensely from what it was. “But you do see what I call boil-in-the-bag plumbers, who train for six months and then off they go.” John doesn’t believe that fast-track training gives them all skills they will need in the future, especially when it comes to working on older boilers and gas fires. “There are a lot of old gas appliances that even I think, where does that go? And then I remember them from about 20 years ago.” They’re both enjoying working together to keep their customers safe and warm, and looking forward to Levi becoming Gas Safe registered. John says: “Levi is always on time and he’s always willing: he’s got a good attitude with people too. Give me a couple of years and then I’ll be working for him. He’ll have to pay me the same wages – but he doesn’t know that yet.” n

Levi is getting thorough training by working alongside John as his apprentice, a route into the industry that John is fully in favour of, having mentored apprentices while he was at the council. Sharing his extensive knowledge to inspire the next generation is something that comes naturally to him. “I’ve had kids from school on work experience,” he says, “and a few of them have gone into plumbing. I try and involve them, explain things and spend a bit of time talking with them. You’ve definitely got to get them involved.” He’s also given a group of youngsters who had been excluded from school a taste of life as a plumber. “There was an old people’s complex being pulled down and they helped take the sink units and bathrooms out, then we took them to the plumbing bays in school. They loved it and a couple of them are now self-employed.”

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 13

Thegoodthebad+theugly We want your pictures Registered Gas Engineer wants to see your pictures – whether you’ve come across some horrors or instances of really good work. And there’s a prize for the best one: so go on, get writing and email your stories and pictures to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk or via Twitter @RGEMag

This water heater chimney was using the old heater’s balanced flue as a route for the new chimney, and was not sealed correctly. Jordan Shiqiao Zhao made safe.

Tony Archer saw an old balanced-flue chimney terminal modified to fit tight up to the plastic guttering.

Keith Broughton’s customer said she could hear funny noises coming from her boiler. Keith soon saw why.

Ryan Done took these photos showing a boiler installation where someone had tried to fit the boiler to the existing chimney using expanding foam. They had also tried to modify the new chimney exhaust duct to fit the existing chimney. Ryan made safe and refitted correctly.

14 May 2021

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS

When Colin Murray was asked to fit a cooker, he found the gas supplied ‘capped’ and in contact with an electrical socket. Colin made safe by renewing the pipework below the socket.

This month winne ’s r

Gareth Grogan sent us this picture of a hob installation. We’ll never know why the flexible connector joints had been covered with tape.

Silviu Harjan saw that this boiler casing had been compromised by someone drilling holes so that electrical cable could pass through to feed some lighting. The boiler has now been replaced.

When Paul Hughes was called to inspect a fire installation, he found the catchment area behind the fire blocked with debris from a very busy bird. He removed the obstruction.

Ian Foster’s photo shows what can happen to copper pipework if it’s used for condensate discharge. Ian changed the pipework.

We may share some of your pictures on social media, so remember to include your contact details so we can tag you (or let us know if you’d rather we didn’t).

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 15

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS

Thegoodthebad+theugly Steven Weightman was carrying out a landlord’s gas safety check and discovered an incorrect chimney fitting for that particular boiler – it had been made to fit with a collar and a mountain of sealant. Steven made safe.

When Howard Sorsby saw this water heater balanced flue terminating inside the property, he made safe and disconnected the water heater.

Photo prize There’s a prize for the best photos sent in (in our opinion). Please remember to take pictures at high resolution and email them to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk This month, Anton is giving away its AGM 55 gas leak detector, which is suitable to detect any combustible gases. The AGM 55 is robust and simple to use, with adjustable tick rate and sensitivity to pinpoint leaks from as little as 10ppm methane. It has audible and visual alarm indicators, a bright LED searchlight for poorly lit conditions, and a robust, flexible gooseneck for those hard-to-reach areas. It also comes with a robust sensor head enclosure (no loose components), a side gooseneck clip for safe storage, and a standard rubber boot. This month’s winner is Colin Murray from Hamilton, South Lanarkshire. Congratulations!

16 May 2021

Terry Moss’s photo highlights the importance of checking the chimney route throughout its length. The gas fire had been serviced recently, apparently.

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LETTERS

Intouch

Please send your letters, which may be edited, to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk.

Installers didn’t engage with the Green Homes Grant – and why would they? The questions that people will be asking are why did the Green Homes Grant, a £2 billion government-funded scheme, not work? Was it too much red tape and government heads in the sand? Why did it take the Prime Minister so long to step in and stop all the absurd red tape? I had been asking these questions for some time and eventually the plug was pulled at the end of March. The nub of the issue is that installers did not engage with this scheme, and why would they? Many of us were burnt by the Green Deal and have the scars, with many now not in business.

During the Bonfield Review of the Green Deal, we established that there were no complaints on heating installations, which made MCS and Trustmark redundant for the heating industry. I also asked which consumer protection legislation was not actually working and did consumers need any more protection? This has never been answered. We were not invited to any more of the meetings. Then Green Deal Mark II was launched [in September 2020] as the Green Homes Grant voucher scheme. I asked BEIS at a recent virtual Energy Efficiency

Association meeting how many installers had uncoupled from the scheme. BEIS did not know and, more worryingly, did not appear to care. It was noted that most installers were still waiting for payment and many said they had severe financial difficulties due to this. It was also noted that many operatives were being laid off, so the scheme was failing to create jobs, apart from the army of inspectors and form fillers. I asked: “When will the Prime Minister step in and stop all this absurd red tape? This bureaucracy is killing the country.” They were unable to

What’s up with chimneys? Why on earth are boiler flues all of a sudden referred to as “chimneys” in your latest issue of the Good, the Bad and the Ugly. It reads as if it’s written by someone who can’t differentiate between chimneys, flues and vents. Frank Chandler From Gas Safe Register’s Technical Team: “For many years, the standard writers (BSI) have opted to follow the European term chimney to describe what has historically been referred to by practicing gas engineers as a flue. In order to recognise this, we have, for some time used the term ‘chimney/flue’ and now we use ‘chimney’ in the captions accompanying the photographs in the Good, the Bad and the Ugly pages. The Gas Safety (Installation &

Use) Regulations 1998 as amended refers to flue/chimney throughout Appendix 3 Requirements for appliances and flues. In addition, the current British Standard 5440-1: Specification for installation of gas appliances to chimneys and for maintenance of chimneys, which has been in place since 2008, states within its foreword the following: “ …European work on chimney standards has brought about the need to redefine chimney concepts and adopt common terminology consistent with the range of products used across the whole European Community …to align with European Standard (the general requirements for which are given in BS EN 1443), where a chimney is treated as a structure containing a flue (the passageway) and might include

a liner (inner wall), insulation and an outer wall. The common terminology in UK industry, which has regarded a chimney as a masonry structure generally associated with solid fuel appliances, has been superseded.” It subsequently defines a chimney as: “3.9 chimney – structure consisting of a wall or walls enclosing a flue or flues. Note: This includes chimneys of all materials (eg, metal, masonry, plastic, etc). It may be either an open-flue chimney for use with an open-flued appliance or a room-sealed chimney configuration for use with a room-sealed appliance.” We do accept that it is taking our industry some considerable time to fully accept what will probably remain interchangeable terminology.

answer. There were numerous questions being tabled in Parliament and it was interesting to see how deep their heads went into the sand before reality kicked in. We need a solution for the professional heating engineer to lead the way towards zero carbon without the red tape. Are MCS, Trustmark and PAS 2035 really necessary for the professional heating engineer? Climate change will be resolved with engineering solutions by engineers, not by an army of inspectors and accreditation bodies. Peter Thom, Green Heat

‘I can’t retire and let the youngsters take over’ The All about You survey results (Registered Gas Engineer, March 2021) made for interesting reading, but nothing really surprising to me, and probably quite a few others. As a 59-year-old who was part of ACOPs and Corgi and now Gas Safe, I have got the T-shirt – which I was hoping to hang up, but the demographic of members and who does what confirms my fears. I think I am one of the last plumbers to go through a proper four-year apprenticeship and then one year of City & Guilds. Now you can become Gas Safe qualified in less than a year, which is why the figures for age are tilted to over-45s – with 5 per cent over 65 who, like me, probably think they can’t retire and let the youngsters get their hands on their boilers. Perhaps it’s good that hydrogen is being rolled out. I’m still working, but not that hard. Martin Garside www.gassaferegister.co.uk 19

Gas safety in leisure accom

What are the standards and guidance that apply to gas safety in different kinds of mobile and holiday park accommodation? Gas Safe Register Technical Officer Graham Kidd sets out the details.

n gas safety terms, leisure accommodation vehicles (LAVs) and residential park homes (RPHs) cover tourers, motorcaravans, motorhomes, and caravan holiday homes. Different standards apply for construction and gas safety, and each LAV or RPH should contain a data badge providing details of the year of manufacture and the standard to which it was built. This can be cross-referenced with the appropriate gas standards that were in force at the time. Tourers Tourers are those seen on the road being towed by another vehicle. They are built to BS EN 1645 and must meet the requirements for the construction and use of road vehicles.

Motor caravans Motorcaravans incorporate living accommodation similar to that of a touring caravan on a motor vehicle base and are therefore designed specifically for touring. They are built to BS EN 1646 and must meet the requirements for the construction and use of road vehicles. Caravan holiday homes Caravan holiday homes are designed specifically for holiday accommodation, typically on a licensed caravan holiday park. 20 May 2021

Because of their size and weight, they are delivered to the park by transporters. Their wheels are solely to manoeuvre them on to site. They are built to BS EN 1647, and LPG systems are covered by BS EN 1949, with safety ventilation under BS EN 721. Residential park homes Park homes are designed for permanent residential accommodation. They look similar to static caravans, and can have pitched, tiled roofs and look similar to a brick-built bungalow. Because of their size and weight, they can only be delivered by transporters, sometimes in two halves that are then bolted and secured together in situ. They are built to BS 3632. Gas installations are covered by BS 6891 and BS 5440-1 and the flues and terminals by BS 715 (partially replaced by BS EN 1856-1:2003 & BS EN 18562:2004). Types of gas used Liquefied petroleum gas The majority of appliances in caravans are fuelled by LPG, the generic term for commercial butane and commercial propane. Butane is not suitable for installations that are subject to low external temperatures and is mainly used in tourers and motor caravans. There is no

standardised colour for butane cylinders – blue, yellow/ochre and white are common. Propane is ideal for outside storage and is used to supply residential park homes and caravan holiday homes. Although often supplied in red cylinders, these can also come in orange or other less common colours. Patio gas propane is an increasing market and comes in green cylinders. Bulk storage vessels at caravan parks are usually white or green. Gas canisters are used for

network. Often there is a bulk supply meter at the site boundary, from which the gas is conveyed around the site to each caravan. The pipes on the site could be owned by the gas conveyor or by the park operator. In certain circumstances, the pipes on the site may be part of a network as defined in the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996 (GSMR) and subject to GSMR, including safety case requirements. Guidance on GSMR is contained in A guide to

“Touring caravans and self-propelled vehicles are out of the scope of the GSIUR unless they are hired to the public.” portable appliance such as singleburner cookers or gas lamps. They can come in a variety of colours and are readily available in many hardware stores. On caravan sites, the gas may be supplied to the caravan via a gas network fed by an LPG bulk storage system. This may give the dutyholder for the site additional gas supplier duties. Note: Further guidance can be found in the GSIUR. Natural gas In some caravan sites, natural gas is supplied from the gas conveyor’s local distribution

the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996 – L80. The end of the network is at the first emergency control valve (ECV), as defined by the GSIUR, and defines the cut-off point between GSMR and GSIUR. If the pipes are on the network and owned by the upstream gas conveyor, then they should be covered by their safety case. If the park operator owns the pipes, then they may be required to produce a GSMR safety case. Who can work on what? Not all gas work falls under the scope of the GSIUR. Touring

modation vehicles

caravans and self-propelled vehicles are out of the scope of the GSIUR unless they are hired to members of the public. The British Standard that applies to such vehicles is BS EN 1949:2001 + A1:2013. There is an overarching requirement to be competent: any person who undertakes work on a LAV such as, but not limited to a touring/motor caravan, must ensure they are competent to do so. Guidance on defining competence is given in GSIUR. If the vehicle is intended to be hired out, then the person/ business undertaking gas work must hold the appropriate qualification and be Gas Safe registered. Things to consider Gas cylinders •C onsider installing a gas detection system • When changing cylinders, ensure that all cylinder valves or gas taps are turned off before disconnecting – and only change a cylinder in the open air •D on’t over-tighten joints • Don’t throw away used cylinders; return them to the supplier. Check with Liquid Gas UK or the nearest stockist for more information •L PG cylinders should be secure and stable and should be stored and used in a ventilated area.

Hoses •W hen connecting a hose directly to a cylinder, or if the outlet pressure of the regulator exceeds 50mbar, use a hose marked ‘High Pressure LPG’ •E nsure the length of the hose is as short as possible, and not so long that it can’t be pulled tight •R eplace any hose that’s damaged or showing signs of wear, stiffness, or cracking • Keep hoses clear of hot surfaces •H oses should only be used for their intended use: check their markings for the correct application • Ensure the correct clips are used and do not damage the hose when tightened or crimped •T here’s more guidance on gas hoses in Technical Bulletins 011 and 146. Ventilation •E nsure that ventilation is kept clear to ensure good air flow • Should be fitted on all sides if the caravan has skirting, ensuring that there is a crossflow of air beneath the caravan that will provide good ventilation to avoid any possible accumulation of gas •T he cylinder compartment must be permanently ventilated to the exterior of the vehicle. Flues •W here flue pipes pass through the structure of a caravan, they should be adequately insulated.

| TECHNICAL | TECHNICAL REGISTERED REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER GAS ENGINEER ARTICLE

• All open-flued water heaters must have an overall flue length of at least 600mm. At least 250mm of this length must be external to the caravan. • When using flued and flueless appliances, adequate ventilation is essential • Open-flued water heaters must not be installed in the bathroom/ shower room. • Only room-sealed flued appliances should be used in bathrooms/shower room. Gas safety • Ensure the gas is turned off before travelling • All flammable gas cylinders must be carried upright at all times • LPG gases are heavier than air, so will form a ‘puddle’ on the ground if there is an escape. Floor vents must be kept clear and unobscured. Bibliography BS EN 1645 -1:2018 – Leisure accommodation vehicles. Caravans. Habitation requirements relating to health and safety BS EN 1646-1: 2018 – Leisure accommodation vehicles. Motor caravans. Habitation requirements relating to health and safety

BS EN 1647: 2018 – Leisure accommodation vehicles. Caravan holiday homes. Habitation requirements relating to health and safety BS EN 1949:2011+A1:2013 – Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles BS EN 721:2019 – Leisure accommodation vehicles. Safety ventilation requirements BS 3632:2015 – Residential park homes. Specification BS 6891:2015+A1:2019 – Specification for the installation and maintenance of low pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35 mm (R114) on premises BS 5440-1:2008 – Flueing and ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70 kW net (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases). Specification for installation of gas appliances to chimneys and for maintenance of chimneys BS 715 – BS 715:2005 – Specification for metal flue boxes for gas-fired appliances not exceeding 20kW. • To read and download Gas Safe Register Technical Bulletins, sign into your online account at: www. GasSafeRegister.co.uk/sign-in

Guidance There are lots of consumer tips on the safety of LPG cylinders and hoses on Gas Safe Register’s website at: www.gassaferegister.co.uk/help-and-advice/lpg

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 21

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | INDUSTRY STANDARD UPDATE

Industry Standard Update 103 Liquid Gas UK CoP 1 Part 4 – 2021 Date issued: 10 March 2021 This Industry Standard Update (ISU) provides an overview of the key areas of change arising from the revision of Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 1 Part 4: 2021 – Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/Mounded LPG Storage Vessels. Introduction During January 2021, Liquid Gas UK published a revised Code of Practice 1 Part 4 2021(1) Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried Mounded LPG Storage Vessels. This supersedes the previous edition that was published in February 2008 (with amendment 2 (corrigendum) on 1 March 2013)(2). The revision to this standard came into effect in January 2021. The following is a brief overview of the areas of significant change to the amended Standard, Liquid Gas UK CoP 1 Part 4. General Legislation, normative references and current standards have been updated throughout where necessary. Scope Liquid Gas UK CoP 1 Part 4 sets out the guidance for: • Underground or mounded vessels with a capacity over 150 litres • Vessel location and separation distances • Vessel design and vapour withdrawal rates • Valves, fittings and adjacent pipework • Corrosion protection. Section 2: Vessel location and separation distances This section has been extended to include additional guidance when considering reduced separation distances, with the need for high-level alarms and CCTV surveillance removed. The need to follow DSEAR has also been added to this section. Table 2 has been altered, with group total nominal LPG capacity added, and vessels 0.05 tonnes to 4 tonnes being split into 0.05-1.1 tonnes and 1.1-4 tonnes. Clause 2.3.1.9 states that, for buried vessels installed under overhead cables, a suitable and sufficient risk assessment shall be carried out to ensure plant and equipment can safely work in proximity to the cables.

22 May 2021

For further guidance, refer to HSE Guidance Note GS6 (Avoiding danger from overhead power lines)(3). Clause 2.3.3 gives advice on flooding, adding that in areas where flooding may occur, vessels shall be mounded or semi-mounded to a height where the top of the vessel is at least to the maximum flood level. Mounded installations shall have safe access and egress provided for the purpose of filling, maintenance and the ability to close valves in the event of an emergency. If permanent safe access and egress is not provided to ensure the ability to close valves in an emergency, remotely operated valves shall be installed on the vessel outlet, with any controls positioned in an easily accessible position. These controls shall be clearly labelled. Only one dispersion wall would normally be installed. If two dispersion walls are being considered, 2.5.3 states they must be kept to as low as reasonably practicable, as required by Regulation 6 (1) of DSEAR(4). To be able to do this, a suitable and sufficient risk assessment must be carried out to identify those measures, in line with the hierarchy established in Regulation 6 of DSEAR, to ensure that, as far as practicable, risks are controlled and the natural ventilation of the installation not impaired. Any measure that the risk assessment identifies shall be implemented. 2.6.6 states that collision damage protection shall be provided for all above-ground equipment and fittings. Section 3: Vessel design and vapour withdrawal rates All new installations shall be fitted with cathodic protection unless the vessel is of the double-skinned type that incorporates a monitored interspace. Section 4: Valves regulators, fittings and adjacent pipework The maximum size of passageway through a maximum liquid level

device has been increased from 1.4mm to 1.5mm, unless it is fitted with an excess flow valve. 4.8.1 gives further extended guidance on the use of Occasional Liquid Withdrawal Valves (OLW), commonly referred to as ‘checklock’ valves. New or refurbished underground vessels shall be fitted with an OLW valve with a male thread to BS EN 13175(5) only. OLW valves may incorporate a manual isolation valve that can be operated by a special removable type of key. A manual liquid service valve fitted with excessive flow valve complying with BS EN 13175 with a plugged outlet may be fitted as an alternative to an OLW valve. Where this is not practicable, they shall only be fitted to the bottom of the vessel, and only where there is sufficient clearance beneath the vessel/valve to allow for the safe operation of the valve and for the safe connection of any transfer hoses. 4.10.1 states any valve regulator and their OPSO/UPSO devices shall be in accordance with BS EN 16129(6). Additionally, small pressure regulator installations should be located with the underground vessel valve box/ chamber with a volume of no more than 0.5m3. Section 5: Excavation, back filling and mounding 5.2.3.2 gives advice that, when using ratchet straps to secure a vessel, care should be taken that the straps are not tightened any more than is required to take up any slack. LGUK CoP 22(7) should be referenced for leak testing vapour off-take service connections after completion of backfilling or mounding. When using sand as a backfill for mounded installations, 5.4.4.3 advises that measures need to be taken to avoid sand migrating from the vessel area via the water drainage system. Section 6: Flotation protection Clause 6.2 gives the calculation for the residual flotation force (in tonnes) of a vessel. This formula is as follows: 1 x the volume of the vessel (in m3) minus the vessel tare weight (in tonnes). The total mass of ballast and

the strength of the anchoring arrangements should be sufficient to ensure the resistance of the maximum residual flotation force of the empty vessel when totally immersed in water. Appendix Appendix A1 has the addition that LPG used for Autogas may now be classed as commercial propane. Annex B has changed, with anode layout being replaced by ‘Safe Handling of LPG’. Annex C has changed from Bibliography to Legal Requirements. Annex D has been added, covering Standards and References. Summary As previously stated, this Industry Standard Update is only a brief overview of the information contained in the amended standard. Registered businesses should be aware that they have a responsibility to ensure that they are fully apprised of all the requirements of the whole published standard and its practical application. Bibliography 1. Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 1 part 4: 2021 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations Buried/Mounded LPG Storage Vessels. 2. Liquid Gas UK Code of Practice 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations Part 4: 2008 Incorporating Amendment 1 March 2013. 3. HSE Guidance Note GS6 (Avoiding danger from overhead power lines) 4. DSEAR The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 5. BS EN 13175 LPG Equipment and accessories 6. BS EN 16129 Pressure regulators. automatic change-over devices having a maximum regulated pressure of 4 bar, with a maximum capacity of 150kg/h, associated safety devices and adaptors for butane, propane and mixtures 7. LGUK CoP 22 Design, Installation and Testing of LPG piping systems

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D A O L N PP W A O E D TH OW N

Gas safety and Building Regulations (compliance certificates) There is an overlap between HSE and Building Control when considering the installation of a fixed heat-producing gas appliance, which is defined as Building Work. Gas Safe Register’s Technical Helpline Manager Carl Banister sets out what you need to know and do.

as engineers know that gas installations must comply with GSIUR* for safety reasons. But certain installations must also comply with a broader set of requirements, as specified in the Building Regulations, including notifying the installation of heat-producing appliances in England and Wales. Gas Safe Register provides gas engineers with the facility to notify work either online or by phone, and some manufacturers will also do this on your behalf. Technical compliance is achieved by ensuring that your gas work meets the guidance outlined in the relevant technical guidance documents that support the Building Regulations. For example, during work inspections, Gas Safe Register assesses compliance with these technical documents, as well as checking that the gas work satisfies the relevant gas-related Normative Documents.**

“The local authority may prosecute those who carry out work that contravenes the Building Regulations.” For example, in addition to the gas boiler installation being safe and compliant with GSIUR and associated installation and maintenance standards, the new heating system it serves also must satisfy all the design and energy efficiency standards as specified in the relevant Building Services Compliance guide. Different regulations apply in England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland (see right). If Gas Safe Register identifies 24 May 2021

work that does not fully meet the requirements that apply in their nation, it will ask engineers to revisit and upgrade their work to satisfy these requirements, similar to the way that incorrect gas work is dealt with. The customer will also be also advised of any Building Regulations issues with the work. Ultimately, where these items are not corrected, the relevant local authority will be informed so that they can consider what further actions to take to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations. There are two formal actions that the local authority can use to achieve compliance with Building Regulations, if informal routes are unsuccessful: Prosecution: The local authority may prosecute those who carry out work that contravenes the Building Regulations. In a Magistrate’s Court, the fine can be unlimited, and prosecution may take place up to two years after the work has been completed. Enforcement: As an alternative, or in addition, the local authority may serve an enforcement notice on the building owner requiring alteration or removal of work that is in breach of the Building Regulations (Section 36 of the Building Act 1984 for England and Wales). The local authority has the power to undertake the work itself and recover costs from the owner, if they do not comply with the enforcement notice. A Section 36 enforcement notice cannot be served after 12 months have passed from the date of building work being completed. The householder is not liable for work covering the safety aspect of the installation of a gas fitting, but they are liable for work that is covered by the Building Regulations, as the procurer of the work.

What information do you need? For note-perfect notification, make sure you have the following information to hand: • Your Gas Safe business registration number • The name of the engineer who completed the work • The date of the work • The property postcode where the appliance was installed • The make and model of the appliance. What the regulations say The installation, alteration or replacement of any heating system must comply with relevant regulations. All new heating systems should be notified to Building Control, as must any alteration to an existing system where a structural alteration is involved. This includes relocating

an existing gas appliance such as a boiler to a new location in the property, for example, into a new extension. The requirement to notify applies to both domestic and non-domestic applications. Failure to notify when required to do so may result in sanctions being applied under Gas Safe Register’s Rules of Registration. ■

*GSIUR: Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 as amended **Technical Bulletin 999: The Legislative, Normative and Informative Documents List

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | TECHNICAL

Different regulations apply in England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland England and Wales •E ach of the 14 sections of the Building Regulations (England and Wales) 2010 has its own Approved Document, which sets out the relevant legislation and describes the means by which the regulations can be met. •T wo Approved Documents are relevant and include ADL1 (new dwellings) and ADL2 (existing dwellings). They are supported by more detail in the Domestic Heating Compliance Guide. Schedule 3, Regulation 12(6) (b) makes notification a mandatory requirement. Scotland • New dwellings must comply with the Building (Scotland) Regulations as presented in their Technical Handbooks. • Requirements for conservation of fuel and power are given in the Domestic Handbook Section 6 (Energy) There is no mandatory requirement to demonstrate compliance via notification. Northern Ireland •T he relevant Building Regulations are the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000, specifically Regulations F3 and F4. •P rovisions in Technical Booklet F1; Conservation of fuel and power satisfy the requirements of Regulations F3 and F4. There is a mandatory requirement to notify relevant works to include the installation of a new gas boiler if it involves a structural alteration, such as a flue/chimney installation, and a gas stove. Isle of Man and Guernsey Similar arrangements exist to England and Wales.

Work that requires notification (England and Wales) Gas – the installation of: • Gas-fired condensing boiler up to 70kW • Gas-fired non-condensing boiler up to 70kW • Gas-fired condensing boiler over 70kW • Gas-fired non-condensing boiler over 70kW • Flue gas heat recovery device with a domestic gas condensing boiler • Gas-fired radiant heating system • Gas-fired water heater • Gas-fired warm air heating system up to 70kW • Gas-fired warm air heating system over 70kW • Flued gas cooking range/hot water boiler. Heating and hot water – the installation of: • Flue liner/chimney system • Domestic hot water system • Heating controls for wet central heating or warm air systems (domestic) • Non-domestic hot water system • Heating and/or hot water system controls (non-domestic) • Unvented hot water storage system • Vented hot water storage system • Wet underfloor heating system • Complete heating system • Hearth. Replace • Part or add to an existing heating system which alters the performance or requires re-commissioning of the boiler, eg, re-setting boiler input/output. You do not need to notify the installation of a new gas cooker under the Building Regulations. You can voluntarily inform Gas Safe Register of conformity and the Register will send a Declaration of Safety Certificate, but this is not a regulatory requirement. Declaration of Safety Certificates can be used when installing appliances such as flueless gas cookers or hobs in every UK nation. Under the Building Regulations, the local authority should receive notification of reportable work within 30 working days of the work being so completed. This means you should notify as soon as possible, within 25 working days. You can notify by logging into your Gas Safe Register online account, and notification costs £2.20 plus VAT per notification online or £3.50 plus VAT by phone. Up to six items can be notified per address in one transaction. You can also notify via an approved third-party agent, such as through the appliance manufacturer directly, where they provide this service. The manufacturer will submit the data to be verified by Gas Safe Register and then will provide the certificate to the homeowner. In both circumstances, Gas Safe Register makes the notification to the relevant Local Authority Building Control department. The Building Regulations Compliance Certificate should be received by the householder or nominated person within 10-15 working days of notification.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 25

Help Gas Safe to drive Gas engineers often tell Gas Safe Register that illegal gas work is one of their biggest bugbears. Here’s what the Register is doing about it, what you should do when you find it, and how reporting illegal gas work when you find it can help to protect your own livelihood.

as Safe Register is hot on the trail of illegal gas work and visits hundreds of suspect installations every year. But it can only investigate what has been reported. If you suspect illegal gas work, here’s what to do and how to report it. What is illegal gas work? Working illegally can take many forms, from someone who has no qualifications fitting a gas appliance, to someone who is registered but working outside the scope of their qualifications, to someone who was registered previously but isn’t any longer. What does it look like? Typical installation defects can be undersized pipework, missing screws from chimney assemblies, chimneys not supported correctly, boilers not secure or stable and incorrect CO/CO2 ratios. No two installations are the same and you should always bear in mind that there may be defects hidden from view when you’re assessing an installation. Gas Safe Register says: “One example we see of illegal gas work is where a builder asks a registered business to issue a landlord’s gas safety record on a new installation. The builder presents the record to the

1,848 reports of illegal gas work*

homeowner and Local Authority Building Control as evidence that the work has been done by a legitimately registered gas engineer. “If you are asked to do this, you should ask yourself: why can’t the registered engineer who fitted the boiler issue the gas safety record?” Are you suspicious? As a basic step, ask your customer about their boiler or gas appliance: who fitted it?

“The more illegal gas workers we can remove from our industry, the more beneficial it will be to us all.” Can you see the Benchmark book, and have they received their Building Regulations certificate? If you have a concern for safety, ask your customer for the details of the tradesperson. Gas Safe Register needs to have as much information as possible so that it can take appropriate action. What should I do? Don’t leave an unsafe gas installation – you must follow the latest Gas Industry Unsafe

567

Gas Safe Register investigations*

Source: Gas Safe Register at a glance 2019/20

26 May 2021

Situations Procedure and make safe if required. If needed, add a ‘Danger Do Not Use’ label and warning notice to make it clear to the householder that they must not use the dangerous gas appliance. However, do not put right the illegal gas work before Gas Safe Register has inspected it: try to preserve as much of the evidence as possible so that an investigations officer can inspect and report to the appropriate authorities.

If your customer insists on the work being put right before Gas Safe Register can attend, make sure you record your findings and take photos. The investigations officer will then take a statement from you and your customer. What if I’m not sure whether it’s illegal? If you suspect it, call Gas Safe Register’s customer service team, who will check whether there is a Building Regulations

6,406

defects attributed to illegal gas fitters*

declaration for the appliance at that address. If you want to remain anonymous, Gas Safe will contact the homeowner or responsible person to try to establish who carried out the work. Gary Russell, Regional Investigations Officer, says: “Registered gas engineers provide crucial information about illegal gas work – and we encourage you to do so. The more illegal gas workers we can remove from our industry, the more beneficial it will be to us all. Getting rid of illegal gas workers will have a financial benefit to your business, as well as strengthening the reputation of all registered gas engineers.” What happens next? After you’ve informed Gas Safe Register, one of its regional investigations officers will aim to visit the property and inspect the gas work within 10 working days. The officer usually spends two to three hours on site and makes a full report of the findings to your customer and HSE (or other bodies, where appropriate) within 10 working days of the site visit. These reports are very detailed and record every gas-related defect on the work, as well as photographs and

64%

investigated installations classified as AR or ID*

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ILLEGAL GAS WORK

out illegal gas work 12%

13%

of information about illegal work comes from gas engineers

of illegal jobs are so dangerous that the appliance has to be disconnected

information about what needs to be done to correct the faults, to provide the evidence that the enforcement agencies need to take enforcement action, including prosecution. The report may be disclosed to other agencies, if appropriate, such as local authority Environmental Health or Trading Standards. The enforcement agencies make an informed assessment of how unsafe the gas installation was, giving them a greater opportunity to demonstrate the level of danger in any subsequent prosecution.

I’ve reported suspected illegal gas work but didn’t hear anything back. Why? Ronan Howard, Gas Safe Register’s National Investigations Coordinator, says: “We take all reports of unregistered work seriously. Where it has been alleged that specific gas work has been undertaken, we will always endeavour to visit the property, undertake an on-site risk assessment and refer our findings to the enforcing authority for consideration. “We will always advise the gas engineer who has reported the matter once we obtain access to the property. However, we do not have rights of access: therefore, if we are not permitted on site, we will be unable to undertake a full investigation. “Because we are the registration body, not the enforcement agency, we do not make the decision as to whether enforcement action will be taken against an individual or business. While investigations are ongoing, we are limited in what information we can provide – but just because we cannot provide sensitive information, this doesn’t mean that action isn’t being taken. “We can only investigate based on the information we receive: if you have concerns, please contact us and provide information.” n

Enforcement The HSE will review the report and decide on the most appropriate enforcement action, in line with its Enforcement Policy. Enforcement action may result in: • a Warning Letter: the first stage of enforcement • a Prohibition Notice: this orders the worker to stop working on gas immediately • Prosecution: this may result in a fine and/or imprisonment of up to six months in the Magistrate’s Court and/or up to two years in the Crown Court or Sheriff Court. Note: Gas Safe Register does not have enforcement powers itself but it is responsible for investigating and compiling the evidence of illegal gas work that is then used by enforcement agencies to bring prosecutions.

1in 3

engineers have been asked to sign off illegal work

1in 10

engineers know someone working illegally

Who reports illegal gas work? Gas Safe receives information from many sources: gas engineers, local authorities, housing associations and its own inspectors. However, most information comes as a complaint from the homeowner affected. • You can report illegal gas work at: www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk/reportillegal • You can also report unsafe work by a registered business at www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk – search for Gas Work Complaint.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 27

Working when you have Thousands of gas engineers are living with dyslexia, whether or not they’ve been formally diagnosed. Registered Gas Engineer talks to engineer Paul Hull, who says more needs to be done to help support them in their working lives.

round 10 per cent of the UK population are believed to be dyslexic, according to the British Dyslexia Association (BDA), but among gas engineers and tradespeople the percentage is thought to be significantly higher. While no substantial research exists, anecdotal evidence suggests that at least 35 per cent of all tradespeople and construction workers may experience some level of dyslexia. That indicates that, of the 77,000 people who read this magazine every month, 26,600 could be dyslexic – even if they don’t realise it. Dyslexia has always been under-diagnosed, and there may be thousands of people across the country who have been unable to access help or advice. There is now support in schools for children who need it, but it is thought that some people who struggled at school and so turned to the trades instead of more academic career paths could have been living with dyslexia without ever having been diagnosed.

“Dyslexic people are visual thinkers and can be extremely creative because they see patterns and identify trends.” What is dyslexia? Dyslexia is a learning difference that affects the way people process information about the world around them. People who are dyslexic may have trouble understanding and remembering information they see and hear, which affects the way they learn as well as their reading and writing skills. Dyslexia affects people from all backgrounds, and affects men and women equally. It is also 28 May 2021

believed that between 25 and 40 per cent of children with dyslexia may have some level of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism, as these disorders can often co-exist. Although being dyslexic can make it more difficult for people to process written information, it does not mean they are less intelligent. In fact, Albert Einstein was dyslexic: he struggled with reading aloud, and did not start speaking comfortably until he was six years old. Dyslexic people are visual thinkers and can be extremely creative because they find it easier to see patterns and identify trends. This is another reason why dyslexia is more commonly found in architects, entrepreneurs, scientists and construction workers, according to the BDA – they are careers that require a lot of creative thinking. In his TedX Talk The Gifts of a Dyslexic Mind, NoticeAbility founder Dean Bragonier says: “[those with dyslexia] have an ability to look at a situation and identify seemingly disparate pieces of information and blend those into a narrative that most people can’t see […] this translates into an exceptional level of success in four major vocational paths, that’s entrepreneurship, engineering, architecture and the arts.” Entrepreneur Richard Branson, in an interview with the Independent in 2017, said: “Once freed from archaic schooling practices and preconceptions, my mind opened up. Out in the real world, my dyslexia became my massive advantage: it helped me to think creatively and laterally, and see solutions where others saw problems.” Am I dyslexic? There are many different strands of dyslexia and everyone processes information differently,

There are a number of specific learning differences that people living with dyslexia sometimes experience, and this has led to the creation of the term neurodiversity, which refers to all those who live with these ‘specific learning differences’, or SpLDs2. Recent research suggests that those who have dyslexia may also experience some level of one, or more, of the following conditions: • Dyscalculia is a persistent difficulty in understanding numbers, which can lead to problems with maths. This can occur across all ages and abilities. Signs of dyscalculia can be difficulties counting backwards, poor mental arithmetic skills, and finding it hard to remember number facts • Dysgraphia is a disorder of written expression that impairs writing ability and fine motor skills. Adults with dysgraphia generally have trouble with grammar, syntax, comprehension, and writing skills • Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), also known as dyspraxia. This common disorder affects fine and/or gross motor condition in children and adults. Children may have difficulties with self-care, writing, typing, or riding a bike, for example, while adults may continue to experience these issues, as well as struggling to learn new skills or drive a car, for example • Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADD/ADHD) are conditions with symptoms such as inattentiveness, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. Adults with ADHD may have trouble managing time, being organised and setting goals. • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects how a person communicates with, and relates to, other people and the world around them. Behaviours can include, but are not limited to, over-reliance on routines, inflexible thinking, and a lack of communication skills. but there are common difficulties that people often face. The BDA recommends that anyone who experiences a number of the following issues may wish to investigate further.1 Do you: • Confuse visually similar words such as cat and cot • Spell erratically • Find it hard to scan or skim text • Read/write slowly • Need to re-read paragraphs to understand them • Find it hard to listen and maintain focus • Find it hard to concentrate if there are distractions • Feel sensations of mental overload/switching off

• Have difficulty telling left from right • Get confused when given several instructions at once • Have difficulty organising your thoughts on paper • Often forget conversations or important dates • Have difficulty with personal organisation, time management and prioritising tasks • Avoid certain types of work or study • Find some tasks really easy but are unexpectedly challenged by others? You can book a diagnostic assessment at BDA: www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/services/ assessments

1 www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/advice/adults/am-i-dyslexic/signs-of-dyslexia 2 www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/dyslexia/neurodiversity-and-co-occurring-differences

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | DYSLEXIA

dyslexia Living with dyslexia One of the first steps towards finding better ways of living with dyslexia is to get an official diagnosis. People who think they may be dyslexic can be reluctant to seek help, even going so far as to hide it from their own family. But with a diagnosis, various skills programmes can help improve spelling skills, reading abilities, and catch up with other parts of the curriculum. Dyslexia is also covered by the Equality Act 2010, so employers have a legal duty to provide support to any employee who is diagnosed as dyslexic and to ensure they are not discriminated against. This could include giving help filling in forms or carrying out any written work that may be

required as part of their role. Many people who are dyslexic also deal with a visual disorder known as ‘visual stress’, which makes it more difficult to read text on certain coloured backgrounds because of an oversensitivity to certain colour and visual wavelengths. Here, simply covering the page or screen with a coloured overlay can filter out that wavelength and make it easier to read and understand. Other ways to make it easier to work with dyslexia include using voicemail rather than written documents, giving verbal instructions as well as written ones, highlighting important points in documents, and presenting information in a visual format.

Advice and support about dyslexia • British Dyslexia Association - www.bdadyslexia.org.uk • NHS - www.nhs.uk/conditions/dyslexia • Made by Dyslexia - www.madebydyslexia.org • Read and Spell - www.readandspell.com/working-withdyslexia • The Reading Well - www.dyslexia-reading-well.com

When dyslexia can be a gift Gas engineer Paul Hull is co-founder of the Gas Safety Superheroes initiative, and managing director of The Commercia Group. He is dyslexic but says he spent years hiding it from those around him. “I spent years in silence not telling people, and it held me back,” he says. “It was a problem until I turned 47, when I met someone who told me it was nothing to be ashamed of. Now I want to make sure other people don’t suffer in silence and realise that dyslexia isn’t something to hide.” Paul says he always knew there was something different about him, and that he struggled to fit in at school, especially with subjects like English. But he really enjoyed practical subjects like metalwork and physics. “Anything with written work, I just couldn’t do,” Paul explains. “I’m from a generation where learning difficulties and dyslexia just weren’t even considered, and I really struggled. I was always

Paul Hull: ‘Make training work’

getting into trouble and being suspended from school because I didn’t want to be there. “I was very embarrassed by my spelling and handwriting and I hid it for more than 40 years. Even now it can affect me with the most mundane things. I hate signing into buildings and having to write my name and vehicle registration – I’d rather roll in fibreglass than write my name in front of someone. “These days, I understand what’s happening and so I make myself take my time and don’t get as anxious, but it’s such a mundane thing that people

without dyslexia find very easy. We’re all different and we all have our own skills.” Paul is very clear that he believes dyslexia is a positive, and that the stigma needs to end. “At work it really does help me, and I tell people that I have dyslexia, but I don’t suffer from it. I just look at things in a different way. I can look at a diagram and see immediately whether something is going to work or not, and I can see patterns in things that people around me don’t – but to me it’s obvious. “I always say that people don’t understand how we think, but dyslexia can really be a gift. It’s just getting that out of my head and on to a bit of paper where I struggle, and that can be quite frustrating.” Paul urges gas engineers who have dyslexia, as well as those who may never have been diagnosed, but think they may be dyslexic, to speak out and ask for help. “So many people have come to me quietly or on

social media and told me that they’re dyslexic, but that nobody knows because they’re embarrassed. Things are changing, but there’s a lot more that can be done. “Manufacturers also need to make sure their training courses are accessible to people who are dyslexic and struggle with reading, and the recent move by many companies towards online-only courses concerns me. These courses are often designed by academic people who get that type of learning, but it can be a barrier to many engineers. “We need to make sure the training we do works for everyone, including 35 to 50 per cent of them who I believe could have a form of dyslexia. “I was really lucky: my parents supported me and gave me all the encouragement, and if I can do anything to help one person not to suffer in silence, then it’s all worth it. I lived with dyslexia in silence for 40 years; nobody should have to do that.” ■ www.gassaferegister.co.uk 29

Water treatment to be The next Part L Building Regulation revisions are expected to strengthen the requirements to treat the water in heating systems annually. Registered Gas Engineer explains what this means for heating engineers, and sets out the steps that need to be taken.

he long-awaited updates to Building Regulations Part L are due to be implemented later this year and, after a consultation with the industry in January 2021, are expected to make direct reference to British Standard 7593:2019 for the first time. The current version of

BS 7593 was introduced in 2019, but until now has only been an advisory document, outlining best practice for water treatment and system cleaning, but with no specific legal or regulatory backing. The standard itself will remain advisory, but compliance becomes mandatory for those

working on domestic central heating and cooling water systems because it will be referenced directly in Approved Document L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) Nisar Afsar, technical director at Sentinel, says: “Previously BS 7593 was a recommendation, but now that

What does this mean? Once BS 7593:2019 becomes a mandatory requirement under Part L, engineers must comply whenever they install a new boiler, or carry out any annual servicing or maintenance work. The main steps in BS 7593:2019 that must be followed under Part L include: •A n in-line filter must be fitted to every system to protect its components, and should then be serviced annually • The level of inhibitor in the system must be checked each year • Inhibitor must be re-dosed every five years, or a full system water test carried out • Before adding the inhibitor, engineers must carry out a chemical clean and fresh water flush • Cleaning methodologies can be improved through external magnetite capture and/or the mechanical vibration of panel radiators, where fitted • Biocide should be used in low-temperature heating systems, and cooling systems, to prevent fungal growth, and should be considered for all systems • An inhibited antifreeze should be used in systems liable to freezing.

caused by the effects of poor water quality”.2 BS 7593:2019 also outlines three cleaning and flushing options, one of which should always be applied to ensure an effective clean of the system before flushing:

• Powerflushing: A cleaning and flushing procedure using an external pump and tank arrangement to effect the circulation of water or chemical cleaner solution at increased velocity and turbulence through the whole circuit and particularly

The standard states that cleaning and flushing should be undertaken before commissioning a new system, or repairing an older one “to overcome the loss of effectiveness and efficiency 30 May 2021

there is a direct reference in Part L, it means the document has become mandatory as part of Building Regulations. So now, when commissioning a system, the heating system in that property has to conform explicitly to the British Standard.”

through individually isolated panel radiators, where fitted, such that it reaches the entire inner surfaces of the system with enough force to ensure the cleaning and complete removal of all adherent and settled sludge, foulants and debris.

Sentinel highlghts the key changes in BS 7593:2019

What does Approved Document L say?1 The draft Part L revisions were released for consultation in January 2021, and are due to come into effect later this year. While the final document hasn’t been released yet, the draft guidance issued for consultation in January 2021 says: “System specific guidance for commissioning Hot water systems for space and domestic hot water heating 8.6 B efore a new heating appliance is installed, all central heating and primary hot water circuits should be thoroughly cleaned and flushed out. A suitable chemical inhibitor should be added to the primary heating circuit to protect against scale and corrosion. Domestic central heating systems should be prepared and commissioned to BS 7593:2019. NOTE: The Benchmark commissioning checklist can be used to show that commissioning has been carried out satisfactorily for the heating and hot water system and its heat generation source. 8.7 In addition to paragraph 8.6, heat pump heating and domestic hot water systems should be commissioned to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme’s MIS 3005, subject to the limitations on scope as outlined in this standard.”

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER TREATMENT

made mandatory • Mains pressure clean and flush: Mains pressure cleaning is a cleaning and flushing procedure in which cleaning of the system to remove all adherent and settled foulants and debris relies on an adequate circulation, preferably at operating temperature, of an appropriate chemical cleaner solution followed by a flushing procedure. The flushing procedure is characterised by the flush through of water under mains pressure through the whole circuit and also through individually isolated radiators, such that it reaches the entire inner surfaces of the system for an adequate period to ensure the complete removal of all adherent and settled sludge, foulants and debris. • Clean and flush using gravity (with the assistance of a circulation pump): Gravity cleaning is a cleaning and flushing procedure in which cleaning of the system to remove all adherent and settled sludge, foulants and debris relies on an adequate circulation, preferably at operating temperature, of an appropriate chemical cleaner solution followed by a flushing procedure. The flushing procedure is characterised by repeated draining and filling the entire system with an adequate total volume of fresh water, such that agitation thereby effected will assist the removal of adherent and settled sludge, foulants and debris.3 Richard Crisp, head of chemistry at Fernox, says: “The chemical water treatment industry has been championing the lifelong protection of central heating systems for many years,

Fernox sets out its recommended five-step approach to professional compliance with BS 7593:2019

to improve energy efficiency, minimise fuel wastage and ensure system longevity. “The 2019 changes to BS 7593 aimed to clarify and promote best practice, for the lifetime of the system. The code of practice covers five key areas – clean, guard, protect, maintain and test – to not only ensure compliance, but also to ensure that systems perform at their optimum level. “To protect a central heating system from corrosion, scale, and microbial fouling (for low-temperature heating systems), engineers should dose the system with the correct concentration of chemical water treatment products. This should include protectors to protect against harmful sludge and debris build-up. “System filters can directly protect the boiler to ensure that any circulating debris present within the system does not reach vulnerable components, such as pumps or heat exchangers. “For hard water areas with water hardness levels of 200ppm and above, a scale reducer

1 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/ file/956100/AD_L_1.pdf 2 https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail?pid=000000000030396715 3 https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail?pid=000000000030396715

should be fitted to mitigate the effects of limescale. Electrolytic scale reducers offer whole-house protection, while magnetic scale reducers are designed to be fitted next to the boiler, or other appliance, for single appliance protection.” Regular testing is key BS 7593:2019 makes it clear that engineers should test the central heating system at the annual service, with a particular focus on checking inhibitor levels. “A central heating system is full of metal components and, when water comes into contact with them, it can lead to corrosion,” says Richard. “If left untreated, limescale, sludge and other corrosion debris will build up over time and can circulate within the system, causing blockages. This forces the system to work harder and results in a sluggish, inefficient performance – as well as higher fuel bills for the customer and increased carbon emissions. It can even cause system breakdown. “Inhibitor plays a key role in maintaining system efficiency but, if underdosed, the system can still be at risk of scale and debris build-up. It is therefore vital that the system is checked regularly to make sure that the correct

concentration of inhibitor is present, and the central heating system remains protected. On-site testing will advise the engineer if levels are too low and allow them to quickly re-dose as required. “As well as confirming the presence of inhibitor, laboratory testing can confirm the presence of inhibitor and also help identify any other issues, equipping the engineer with the full, diagnostic information needed to rectify them. This will ultimately minimise system problems and extend system life.” The next steps in water treatment The water treatment industry spent many years lobbying for the original BS 7593 standard to set out a minimum water treatment standard. Nisar says: “The standard was first created in 2006 by like-minded people in the industry, because at the time there wasn’t really a code of practice. The standard put best practice into a document to provide a solid framework for the entire industry to work with. “By 2019, technology was changing, and the previous document no longer reflected areas such as cooling systems, www.gassaferegister.co.uk 31

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER TREATMENT

Water treatment to be made mandatory continued >

or some of the technology around low-temperature applications and how those systems needed treating with biocidal products to prevent microbiological growth. “The other aspect we wanted to see introduced in the 2019 version was to simplify the general cleaning and flushing methodology, as there was a perception that some of the language being used didn’t translate well.” In the two years since the 2019 revisions were introduced, manufacturers have continued to innovate with new technology, as well as investing heavily in training engineers. “Before the Covid lockdown we used to maintain our own training schedule,” says Nisar, “inviting engineers to learn about the regulations and British Standards, and also what best practice means to an engineer. “Awareness is much higher now, and we’ve seen a quite positive reception – most engineers have welcomed the

32 May 2021

idea that there is now a standard that covers best practice. “At Sentinel, we have a mantra of clean, protect and maintain, and have been promoting that within the industry ever since we were first founded. Those three things ensure you’re prolonging the life of the appliance and the system as a whole. It’s quite encouraging to see that, over the years, the revisions to BS 7593 have brought in a lot of the best practice approaches that we were already promoting. “The main point we want engineers to take away is that BS 7593 is now integrated into the Building Regulations. That elevates its status to beyond advisory and its points are now mandatory – and engineers need to make sure they understand what they need to do to stay compliant.” ■ *BS 7593: Code of practice for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic central heating and cooling water systems

Benchmark makes water treatment compliance digital Checking system inhibitor levels is included in the Benchmark Commissioning Checklist, which gas engineers must complete whenever they install, commission or service a domestic heating and hot water system. The new digitised Benchmark consists of apps for homeowners and engineers as an effective means of demonstrating Building Regulation compliance. The apps cover the boiler’s complete installation and servicing history, creating a digital record of all system checks, water treatment testing and procedures that have been carried out on site. Under Benchmark, engineers must record the system cleaner and inhibitor used, the inhibitor identification number, describe the concentration test used and its methodology, and confirm that the system has been cleaned and treated in accordance with BS 7593 and the boiler manufacturer’s instructions. They must also record details of the system’s primary water system filter, and whether it was serviced.

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER TREATMENT

Backflow regulations: what they mean for you Backflow presents challenges and risk for commercial and public buildings, but it can be prevented with a clear understanding of the regulations and what they mean, writes Richard Bateman, product marketing manager at RWC.

ackflow is when stagnant or contaminated water gets sucked back into the mains water supply. There are two main causes: back-pressure or backsiphonage, which occur when water is pushed in the opposite direction to its standard flow path. Back-siphonage can occur if there is a sudden drop in pressure upstream of the outlet – for example, from a burst pipe – causing the contents of the pipework to drain towards its source. If the outlet is open when back siphonage occurs, harmful contaminants can be pulled back into the potable water supply, such as from baths, showers and even washing machines. Ensuring the correct level of prevention or protection is in place is key.

implications that brings. Backflow prevention is of particular importance to refurbishment projects and heritage buildings. The only exception where a backflow prevention device is not required relates to a water heater where the expanded water is permitted to flow back into a supply pipe. This means that no backflow protection is required on the permanent cold connection to the boiler, allowing hot water to thermally expand down the cold pipe.

The backflow regulations The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations (1999) for England and Wales (Bylaws in Scotland) have identified five fluid categories, each representing a higher degree of risk, to help tackle the problem of backflow. Fluid Category 1 is considered safe, while Category 5 presents a very serious health hazard. The presence of contaminants in clean water presents a real and immediate risk to health. This is never good for any building, but it’s especially concerning in hotels, schools and hospitals, and healthcare facilities. In these spaces, occupancy is high, the system is in constant use, and potentially vulnerable or at-risk people may be using the system. There’s also the potential for this backflow to enter the mains water supply, posing a wider public health risk to neighbouring homes and communities. In extreme cases, building owners can face prosecution. Moreover, the process of draining and cleaning water supplies results in significant disruption and water waste, with all the sustainability

Fluid categories 1 and 2 Fluid category 1 is ‘wholesome water’ that complies with section 67 of the Water Industry Act 1991 and requires no specific countermeasures or action. Fluid category 2 covers water that has altered in either appearance or taste, with likely causes being either a temperature change or the presence of micro-organisms or other substances. Here, a single check valve will suffice. An example of this is a basin mixer tap, where hot water can sometimes pass back into the cold supply. Installing a single check valve to the cold pipe feeding the tap would prevent cross-flow.

The five fluid categories The key to navigating backflow regulations is understanding the expected level of fluid risk for the building in question, and what level of protection will be needed.

Fluid category 3 This is water with low levels of toxicity, which nevertheless presents a slight health hazard. In these cases, double check valves must be installed. One instance of this would be a supply to an outside tap (unless this supply is feeding a sprinkler system that uses pesticides, in which case higher protection is required). The valve you choose

RPZ valves protect the mains water supply by diverting the back-fed water from the property out to the waste pipe

must be compliant with the Water Supply Regulations 1999. Fluid category 4 This is water with harmful concentrations of toxic substances. Suitable backflow prevention devices are required in these situations, such as RPZ valves. In the event of a drop in pressure or back siphonage occurring, RPZ valves protect the mains water supply by diverting the back-fed water from the property out to the waste pipe, therefore diverting it from the main supply and drinking network, and limiting the risk of contamination. Applications include commercial dishwashers and cleaning appliances, commercial heating systems and fire sprinkler systems where antifreeze is not used. Fluid category 5 The highest risk level, category 5, represents the most serious health hazard because of the presence of pathogens and radioactive or very toxic substances. Fluid category 5 is a highly specialist area calling for a Class 5 backflow prevention device, incorporating a Type AB air gap or equivalent. Double check when filling new heating systems Gas engineers need to consider backflow prevention when filling a new heating system, specifically with the heating fill point. Once

the new heating system has been filled, any external flexible filling loop must be removed to protect the system from over-pressurising should its isolation valve fail. While the filling loop is only temporarily connected, it is essential to integrate a doublecheck valve into the flexible filling loop for domestic applications, as the fluids used to clean and inhibit the system are deemed a slight health hazard. This risk is higher in commercial unvented systems, where Fluid Category 4 prevention should be installed. Putting maintenance first In the high-risk fluid categories, maintenance is critical to ensure that backflow prevention devices are working correctly. While RPZ valves are highly effective, they need to be installed, commissioned and tested by an approved RPZ valve tester, who must notify the water authorities of the status of all works. Because of their vital function, they need to be regularly tested, again by an approved installer. It is a legal requirement that this test is conducted every 12 months to ensure that the RPZ valve is operating correctly and doesn’t require further maintenance. The exact schedules will vary across local water undertakers, but full guidance can be found on their websites.■ www.rwc.co.uk www.gassaferegister.co.uk 35

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER STORAGE

100 years of Heatrae Sadia Heatrae Sadia recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Here, engineering manager Gordon Bush, who has been with the business for 34 years, looks back at its fascinating journey.

n the beginning The company’s story began in 1920 with Charles Hubert Smith founding Electric Fires Ltd. Smith is credited with inventing the first mains electric immersion heater and went on to hold many other product design patents. In 1926, the business moved to bigger premises in St Georges Street, where it made a range of electric fires, hot plates and hot water heaters. These early years under Smith’s leadership would provide the foundation for the company’s success into the next century. In 1934, the company changed its name to Heatrae. Just a few years later, Prime Minister Winston Churchill would use the company’s hot water cylinders to draw a bath in his Downing Street Station bunker. The 1950s and 1960s saw the business expand through a string of acquisitions. In 1960, Heatrae bought Duncan Low, a manufacturer of industrial electric and steam liquid heating equipment, and become Heatrae Industrial. In 1961, the business set up Heatrod Elements in Gorleston to produce immersion heaters; just a year later it acquired Electroway, a manufacturer of stainless-steel catering equipment. Around this time, Heatrae’s parent company merged with British South African Co to become Charter Consolidated.

The St George’s Street factory

36 May 2021

The changing face of advertising in the 1920s and 1930s

The business we know today It was not until the 1970s, however, that the business as we know it today began to take shape after its move to its current site, Hurricane Way, Norwich, in 1970. Sadia Water Heating was acquired in 1974 to complement Heatrae’s existing range, and three years later, the business would bring both brands under one banner as Heatrae Sadia. The 1980s saw further growth as the company was bought by Valor and expanded into new markets through three further acquisitions. Unvented water heating was also adopted in the UK around this time. Making way for Megaflo Innovation came in the 1990s when the business secured the design and manufacturing rights from Fabdec for the Megaflo, which would be manufactured in Norwich. Going on to become one of the leading domestic hot water cylinders, Heatrae Sadia’s range of Megaflo hot water cylinders combines high performance with optimum efficiency to give fast-filling baths and powerful showers. Thousands of G3-qualified gas engineers choose Megaflo to work in conjunction with gas heat-only boiler systems or electric boilers each year.

“Prime Minister Winston Churchill used the company’s hot water cylinders to draw a bath in his Downing Street Station bunker.” Heatrae Sadia’s parent company changed hands twice during the decade and, by 1996 the business had its first robot on the production floor. The new millennium saw major changes as Newmond merged with Baxi Heating. Powermax production was moved to Norwich and Amptec would be acquired from ElectroHeat ahead of Baxi Heating’s merger with De Dietrich and Remeha to form the BDR Thermea Group in 2009. In 2012, the business again made history as it provided packaged heating solutions for developments at the London Olympics. Heatrae Sadia also produced a chariot included in the Lord Mayor’s procession as the Olympic torched passed through Norwich on its way to the capital. 2021 and beyond As Heatrae Sadia embarks on the next century of its history, a new chapter is beginning. As part of BDR Thermea Group, the Heatrae

Sadia brand has the financial and technical backing to prepare it for the energy transition and the drive for net-zero carbon. Supporting sustainability and innovation, Megaflo Eco cylinders are taking part in trials for the USER project and test demandside response, by connecting new or existing hot water cylinders to the grid with a smart interface unit. This then enables the hot water store to become a grid-interactive storage heater, to heat hot water when there is low-cost electricity available. With wholesale electricity prices sometimes dropping to zero, or even negative values, this could potentially lead to households being paid to use electricity in some cases. While the heating and hot water landscape may change, one constant remains: Heatrae Sadia will continue to support generations of heating engineers now, as it has done for the past 100 years. ■ www.heatraesadia.com

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LOW CARBON

Solar’s place in the sun What is the role of solar technology on the road to net-zero carbon by 2050? Martyn Bridges, director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, has some thoughts.

started at 43p for every kilowatt following the cost of installation, olar thermal is rarely hour (kW/h) generated by the of course. mentioned in discussions panels. Today it pays users Today Worcester Bosch about decarbonisation. With heat around 4p. The technology is still continues to run training pumps and hydrogen solutions used in new-build properties, but courses for installers interested dominating current thinking, it is this is mainly to assist with in offering the technology. hardly surprising that solar hasn’t However, while solar thermal is low-carbon requirements. had much of a look in. Solar solutions are a great effective, it is generally unsuitable However, solar thermal and technology, but although we saw for the majority of homes in the particularly solar PV were very a small rise in demand for solar UK that have combi boilers popular once, and they can thermal last year following the because it does need a hot contribute towards announcement of the Green water cylinder. This means that decarbonisation as a renewable Homes Grant, this did not in today’s decarbonisation source for heating domestic hot materialise into a significant landscape, solar thermal certainly water. Several grants were increase in sales. has its place but it cannot be available as well as feed-in tariffs, Ultimately, solar technologies considered a complete solution. and they had quite a market at are a contributor but they are not the time. a complete solution to low-carbon Solar PV It is a good piece of homes – what we really need is a Demand for solar PV in existing technology in many ways, as it solution for home heating. Solar homes has diminished can provide up to 60 per cent of thermal and solar PV can significantly since the days of the home’s domestic hot water BES RGE H131xW186mm ad July 20 FREE.pdf 1 30/06/2020 generous feed-in tariffs, which 16:48 contribute, but they will never requirements free of charge,

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replace the fact that a boiler, heat pump or other heat source are needed to provide heat to the radiators. In the grand scheme of things, they will always be a bit-part player: it’s heat pumps, hydrogen-ready boilers and district heating that are set to take centre stage on the road to net zero. The elephant in the room The elephant in the room is existing homes, where it is very difficult to do anything other than fit a replacement boiler. We are very optimistic that the government’s Hydrogen Strategy and the Heat and Buildings Strategy later this year will confirm the future of hydrogen, which offers a promising solution to the existing homes conundrum. ■

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LOW CARBON

A clean, green and profitable future The UK’s commitment to net zero by 2050 is creating momentum in the heating industry. Griff Thomas from training provider GTEC looks at some profitable business opportunities for gas engineers as we head towards a low-carbon future.

t’s an exciting time to be part of the domestic heating industry. With low-carbon technologies challenging the way we heat our homes, billions of pounds of investment in green infrastructure and an urgent demand for qualified and MCS-certified installers, there are plenty of opportunities for experienced gas engineers who want to embrace a clean and green future. Heating is the single largest contributor to UK carbon emissions. Tackling this complex sector will not be easy, but it is essential if we are to meet net zero. Gas engineers will have a crucial role to play, building on their expertise to become multi-skilled heating engineers.

Multi-skilled installer With such a varied housing stock, there is no silver-bullet solution to meet the needs of all properties. For the majority of our towns and cities, gas is here to stay for the foreseeable future – as it is now or blended with hydrogen. However, most homes will rely on a combination of technologies: gas engineers who get to know new low-carbon technologies will be able to expand their business, providing a full-service heating solution and advising customers which technologies will work best in their home. For example, homes connected to the gas grid can benefit from complementary technologies, such as solar

“The RHITSS offers up to 70 per cent off the cost of becoming MCS-certified, including training and membership/ accreditation fees.” Green building revolution The Future Homes Standard will set rigorous new energy performance standards for new homes from this year. An interim uplift of Part L of the Building Regulations aims to ensure a 31 per cent cut emissions from new-build by June 2022. By 2025, emissions will be reduced by 75-80 per cent from current levels and all new-build homes will have to be zero-carbon-ready. Existing homes will be subjected to higher standards under the legislation. The Committee for Climate Change (CCC) has recommended that all new heating installations should be low carbon by 2033 and this was reiterated by the government in its 2020 Energy White Paper. 40 May 2021

thermal, which can significantly cut the home’s carbon footprint and reduce fuel bills. Upskilling to solar thermal makes sense: the technology works well for both rural and urban homes, and it will continue to be effective alongside any hydrogen network. Supported training The UK desperately needs qualified and certified low-carbon installers. At the moment, there are fewer than 1,000 MCS accredited heat pump installers: that’s nowhere near enough to install the 600,000 heat pump units a year targeted by the government in its Ten-Point Plan. Gas engineers have all the skills, knowledge and experience required to upskill to this lucrative technology, and significant funding and support is available

to help meet demand. The recently launched Renewable Heat Incentive Training and Support Scheme (RHITSS) is the ideal opportunity to train in heat pumps or solar thermal at a heavily discounted cost. The scheme offers up to 70 per cent off the total cost of becoming MCS-certified, including technology training, prerequisite training and membership/accreditation fees. Breaking down barriers In the past, building services installers been put off by the bureaucracy associated with MCS accreditation, and the

RHITSS is designed to overcome this by providing a full package of support to guide candidates through every stage of their application. It’s all about breaking down barriers, from helping with the cost (the package is worth around £1,300 per company), to setting up a management system, compliance with MCS standards and arranging your first installation. Gas engineers are perfectly positioned to meet demand for innovative heating technologies, building on their skills, knowledge and experience and embracing the opportunities presented by a greener future. ■

New route to MCS certification In the past, it has been difficult for newly qualified installers to secure their first installation in order to be assessed for MCS accreditation. To overcome this barrier, MCS has introduced a new qualification-based route to demonstrating competency under the scheme. MCS recognises that practical assessments undertaken as part of an RQF qualification are sufficient to demonstrate competency for MCS certification: therefore no additional on-site MCS assessment is required when following this route. www.rhitss.co.uk

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS

Productnews New hot water cylinders from Worcester Bosch

Blue is better than yellow, says Navien

Worcester Bosch’s new Green Storage range consists of seven unvented hot water storage cylinders plus four solar cylinders. The range is a response to installer feedback and provides a competitive and affordable solution for all types of stored hot water installations, says the company. The cylinders have rapid re-heat times with excellent levels of heat retention, range from 90 litres to 300 litres, and come with a five-year guarantee on components and 25 years on the outer casing. Martyn Bridges, director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, says: “With an ever-evolving market, it is our aim to provide our customers with the right solutions that meet the demands of a heating technology-agnostic future.” Gas engineers who are signed up to the Excelerate loyalty scheme will get £50 cashback on purchases before 14 May 2021. www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/ professional/green-storagerange

Navien only uses blue-flame technology in its oil LCB700 oil boilers. Blue-flame technology has been specifically engineered to turn heating oil into a vaporised spray. This is then premixed with combustion air before being drawn in through the burner, resulting in a clean blue flame that has much lower NOx emissions and running costs when compared with traditional, yellow-flame models. This means heating engineers can provide a more sustainable and efficient oil boiler when they need a like-for-like replacement. National business manager Jason Davies says: “We’ve ensured our LCB700 benefits from the highest standards of energy efficiency. Blue-flame burners are the future of oil heating, so should be considered as the ‘go to’ option, as opposed to inefficient yellow-flame products.” Navien’s LCB700 Blue Flame boilers are lightweight, with lift weights starting from 58kg, and are OpenTherm-ready, providing instant access to the latest control technology at minimum disruption to homeowners, while reducing installation costs. Using the company’s oil boilers in conjunction with its Smart Plus control pack provides an overall A+ ErP energy rating. www.navienuk.com

Next-gen Vitodens 100-W from Viessmann

Sentinel’s Vortex250 is small but strong

Viessmann has introduced the next generation of its most popular gas-condensing boiler, the Vitodens 100-W. The WiFi-integrated Vitodens 100-W’s new control platform makes it easier to commission and service the boiler, says the company. Gas engineers can monitor and make adjustments to the boilers remotely. No third-party controls are required as the Vitodens boiler with ViCare thermostat provides homeowners with a load-compensating smartphone-controlled heating system. The mechanical design of the Vitodens 100-W has reduced the number of spare parts typically needed for routine maintenance by about 50 per cent, so gas engineers can carry less stock. Compact and quiet, with outputs ranging from 3.2kW to 32kW (and with an 11kW version now added to the range), the Vitodens 100-W series is suitable for a broader range of homes and is ideal for gas engineers searching for boilers to match heat-loss calculations. It includes features from its most advanced

Sentinel has introduced its first ultra-compact magnetic system filter, the Eliminator Vortex250. Following on from the success of the Eliminator Vortex range, the horizontal, front-facing filter can be fitted in the most restrictive of spaces. Vortex250 builds on the success of the range and incorporates new features, including an integrated isolation valve, avoiding the need for a strip-down service; and a front-facing magnet for easy removal. Whether fitted above or below

42 May 2021

gas-condensing boiler, the Vitodens 200-W. “The new Vitodens 100-W boiler, with its completely new control platform, is the most up-to-date specification on the market. With WiFi inside the boiler, it is a truly smart machine, enabling live interfaces and full control for both the installer and end user. All this functionality is free and included in the boiler,” says Graham Russell, managing director at Viessmann UK. www.viessmann.co.uk

the boiler, optimum protection is ensured by the powerful 9000 Gauss magnet assembly and the leak-free design, supported by dual seals, sitting within a GRP body and further supported by a forged brass T-piece. UK commercial director Dan Wilson says: “The innovative design of the filter, as well as its ultra-compact size, combined with optimised debris capture supported by a powerful magnet, means this filter is a great option for many situations.” www.sentinelprotects.com/uk/ product/eliminator-vortex250

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | COMPETITION

Competition Win a training course We’ve teamed up with our friends at London Gas Training Centre to offer three readers the chance to win a course on Unvented OR 18th Edition (3-day) OR £150 discount on your ACS re-assessment.

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ondon Gas Training Centre is a brand new training centre in the heart of Leighton Buzzard, approved by NICEIC and City & Guilds. The family-run business has nearly 30 years of experience in the gas, renewables and electrical industry. At the heart of the the centre’s ethos is its belief that good training is not just about learning new skills or acquiring new knowledge – it’s about gaining confidence, taking on new challenges and realising your full potential. Its aim is to transfer its knowledge, experience and recommendations for ACS re-assessments, initial assessments, unvented, renewables, 18th Edition, electric vehicle and PAT courses. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

By entering this prize draw, you agree to these terms and conditions: • Registered Gas Engineer and London Gas Training Centre do not accept responsibility for lost, delayed, corrupted or invalid entries. • Three winners will be chosen at random from all correct answers submitted in accordance with these terms and conditions. • The winners will be notified by email. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. • The prize cannot be substituted or upgraded.

The centre provides extensive education opportunities and hands-on sessions using the equipment you’d encounter daily, all at its fully equipped centre. It provides all the materials needed for the course and support through your whole training period. Director David Lee says: “We want to make studying with us as stress-free and effective as possible with our experienced staff, and we run courses throughout the week, including evenings and weekends.” • London Gas Training Centre is a 10-minute drive from Junction 11A on the M1, and less than two miles from Leighton Buzzard train station. www.londongastc.co.uk

• The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. • Registered Gas Engineer and London Gas Training Centre may disqualify you from winning if they have reasonable grounds to suspect that you are in breach of these terms and conditions or your participation is fraudulent or otherwise unlawful. • This draw is not open to employees of London Gas Training Centre, Gas Safe Register or Registered Gas Engineer or their direct family members or agents. • Registered Gas Engineer and London Gas Training Centre do not accept any responsibility for any network connection, technical failure or other

For your chance to win your choice of Unvented (course code lgtc6) OR 18th Edition (3 day) (course code lgtc3) OR £150 discount when booking ACS re-assessment (course code lgtc1), just answer the following question correctly: Where is London Gas Training Centre based? a) Leighton Buzzard b) Leighton Hawk c) Leighton Orient Please email your answer, including RGE Competition in the subject line, plus your name, registration number, address, and phone number, to: competition@londongastc.co.uk Closing date is 31 May 2021. The draw will take place on 6 June 2021 and the results will be published on LGTC’s website and Instagram. The winners must take up their training course within six months of this date.

problem in any telephone line, network, system, provider or otherwise which results in any entry not being properly recorded or received. •O ne entry per person. •L ondon Gas Training Centre may use your details for marketing purposes. By entering this competition, you agree that you may receive communications from London Gas Training Centre . If you do not wish to be contacted, please add NO COMMUNICATIONS in your email entry. • The winners must take up their training course within six months of the competition closing date.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 47

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