Registered Gas Engineer, April 2021 issue

Gas REGISTERED

THE ONLY OFFICIAL INDUSTRY PUBLICATION

Issue 145 April 2021

Hydrogen The latest plans to help the UK’s transition

Unsafe Situations Procedure When doing the right thing could save somebody’s life

Genuine spare parts Manufacturer-approved parts and why they matter

WIN A DC710C2 smart FGA and manometer kit from TPI

WiFi Inside

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

In this issue

Issue 145 April 2021

14 The good, the bad and the ugly

19 Letters 24 Technical Bulletin 159 Natural

gas standards when working on domestic installations being supplied with natural gas containing up to 20 vol% hydrogen

04 Gas Safe News

28 Tested and approved

The importance of using only approved spare parts, and the work being done to create an industry certification scheme

The gas engineers and organisations who wholeheartedly get behind Gas Safety Week – and why they do it

07 You can now send

your expired ID card to Gas Safe Register for secure recycling; trials are under way on Virtual Inspection events

08 News

31 Benchmark Checklist

Engineer and consumer apps are now live to encourage a whole-life approach to boiler care

32 Why you should source all

Landlord prosecuted after vulnerable tenant lived in property with dangerous gas appliances; Reminder to be on your guard against guaranteed contracts; Post-Covid UK must prioritise green commitments, say Brits

your boiler components and accessories from the same manufacturer

13 Profile

Gas engineer Mike Horsfall is taking a stand against van theft with his invention Van Guardian

Competition Your chance to win TPI’s DC710C2 smart Bluetooth flue gas analyser and manometer kit

26 Unsafe Situations

A cautionary tale about a hidden horror in a customer’s home; Unsafe Situations comes under the microscope in Gas Safe Register’s latest Open Channel event

34 Digesting the recent flurry of policy updates on the UK’s road to net zero – and a preview of what’s still to come

37 The Legislative, Normative and Informative Documents List

44 The rules on boosting

mains water pressure

46 Products

The latest launches from Gastite, Esi Controls, Uponor and Grant

20 Hydrogen

As the first demonstration homes fuelled by hydrogen open to the public this month, we look at the latest plans to help the UK’s energy transition

Win Page 51

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 03

What does Gas

FROM THE EDITOR

Comment

S

pring is here, the days are longer, and April feels like the start of a return to a more normal world after an unimaginable year. Millions of Brits have now received their vaccine against Covid-19, and the shops (and pubs!) are due to re-open soon.

But what about you? We know that many of you have been working hard throughout the pandemic, keeping people safe and warm in the homes inside which more people have spent more time than ever before, and keeping the hot water flowing so that we can all wash those hands.

We’d like you to tell us how the past year has been for you. What has been the impact?

Have you been busier than ever or has it been stop-start? Have you had to shield to protect your own health or that of loved ones? What has been the effect on your business, your colleagues and your customers? What have been your biggest challenges – and how have you overcome them?

Please tell us about how the past year has affected you, and help us to shine a light on the vital work you’ve done to keep Brits safe and warm.

You can share your stories with us via email at editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk Nicki Shearer, editor

It’s never too early to start planning for Gas Safety Week. Here we talk to some of the people and organisations that really throw themselves into supporting our industry’s biggest annual campaign to find out why they do it and what they get out of it.

The quickest way to reach the magazine team is via email.

Ibrahim Tural is owner of Real Boiler Servicing, based in Enfield. When he’s not fitting boilers, Ibrahim can often be found handing out flyers and promoting gas safety in his local community. Over the years, he has taken stalls at fêtes, markets and county shows, and has encouraged local DJs and cheerleaders to get involved.

“We used to go all out with balloons, banners, costumes, performers, bouncy castles and even an F1 simulator,” Ibraham says. “Sometimes talking about gas safety can be a little doom and gloom, but we wanted to create a different message – to get people in a relaxed state where they’re having fun, so they’ll be more receptive.”

Many of the competition prizes Ibrahim has given away are donated by manufacturers, but Ibrahim has funded the rest of the work himself. As a sole trader running his own business, this can be challenging, but he believes the message is important.

He says: “The Gas Safety

Gas Safe Register, PO Box 6804, Basingstoke, RG24 4NB. Email: enquiries@gassaferegister.co.uk, register@gassaferegister.co.uk or technical@gassaferegister.co.uk 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, 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 04 April 2021

Ibrahim (second right): ‘We wanted to create a different message’

Ibrahim Tural, gas engineer, Real Boiler Servicing, Enfield Week message is very broad and important to everyone, not just people who have gas in their own homes. It may be that someone who doesn’t have gas might have kids in rented accommodation who do, or maybe a neighbour or elderly person nearby – gas safety affects us all because we’re all part of the same community.”

Last year, the impact of the pandemic meant that Ibrahim moved his gas safety messages online, sharing information and running competitions on social media.

Ibrahim has seen the benefits to his own business of being a supporter. “Supporting Gas Safety Week has given my business a presence in the community that I would have had to spend £100,000s in advertising to achieve – it’s been phenomenal,” he says.

“I’ve been in the local press talking about gas safety. The better the business does, the more I can do to support Gas Safety Week with bigger events that benefit everyone.”

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | GAS SAFE REGISTER NEWS

Safety Week do for you?

Worcester Bosch Worcester Bosch has been a long-time supporter of Gas Safety Week. Every September, Martyn Bridges, director of marketing and technical support, takes to the airwaves and spends a day being interviewed for radio stations up and down the country to spread the word about the importance of gas safety.

Martyn says: “In the run-up to and during Gas Safety Week we make sure there are banners on our website and publish a lot of articles promoting gas safety, but the radio day is definitely the pinnacle. During the interviews we talk about the importance of getting your appliances checked and serviced, why it’s so important to use a Gas Safe registered engineer, and where to find one.”

Each year, Martyn carries out around 20 radio interviews, which together reach around 1 million listeners across the country.

Ahead of Gas Safety Week, Worcester Bosch also carries out research with around 1,000 people to find out how often they have their boiler serviced, as well

13-19 September 2021

Phoenix Natural Gas as the answers to other simple gas safety questions. These answers form the basis of the regional radio interviews.

Martyn adds: “It’s great to be able to say what percentage of people in the North-west of England, for example, have their boiler serviced each year, compared with other regions – it really helps to get people’s attention.

“We also take the opportunity to remind people that they need an annual service to keep boiler warranties valid – it’s something that many don’t realise.”

Phoenix Natural Gas supplies natural gas to around 340,000 properties in Northern Ireland.

During previous Gas Safety Weeks, the company has held a series of regional roadshows in shopping centres and other busy areas, all to promote gas safety and make consumers aware of the need to have their gas appliances checked regularly.

Communications manager Gillian Orr says: “Gas Safety Week provides an important platform to raise the profile of gas safety with consumers, and to highlight the additional safety

Paul Hull, gas engineer, The Commercia Group, London Gas engineer Paul Hull is owner of The Commercia Group, and one of the founders of the Gas Safety Superheroes – a non-profit social enterprise initiative that aspires to raise awareness of gas safety. For five years the Superheroes initiative has used industry events and social media to spread the word, creating well-known industry campaigns including #RegardtheCard and #SiteforSoreInstalls.

Paul says: “I really believe it’s important to raise awareness of the industry, and of us as registered engineers – that’s why we support Gas Safety Week. I know people say gas safety should be for the whole

year, but Gas Safety Week gives us that moment to raise our profile and let consumers know they should use the Register.”

Last year, the pandemic put a stop to the events that the Gas Safety Superheroes usually attend, but they carried on supporting online.

Paul is hoping to be able to be able to meet people again.

He says: “I really missed it last year when we couldn’t get out and make the most of Gas Safety Week. Previously we’ve run a different online campaign each day of the week, and we’ve also created online videos and infographics supporting gas safety, which went down really well. We’ll definitely get

features of natural gas when compared to other fuels.

“As a network operator, connecting thousands of new customers each year, we are committed to ensuring that consumers continue to enjoy all the benefits of natural gas safely. With frauds and scams on the rise, it is also a vital reminder to consumers [to use] the Gas Safe Register.”

The roadshows couldn’t take place last year but Phoenix was still determined to continue to support. “With more people spending time at home, we felt it was really important that we continued to support Gas Safe Week and engaged with consumers through virtual channels,” says Gilliant. “We shared tips on how to stay gas safe every day, with a focus on helping customers stay safe and well at home.

“Consumer engagement is at the heart of our Gas Safety Week activity and, this year, we will be working with a range of consumer organisations and representative bodies to ensure we reach as many consumers as possible.”

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. www.gassafetyweek.co.uk

involved again this year.”

He says it’s important to share industry knowledge, both for the public and for other engineers who are just entering the industry. “So many people are retiring from plumbing and heating. Their knowledge is being lost and when it’s gone, it’s gone – it’s such a drain on the industry,” he says.

“This industry has served me well, and I just want to leave it in better shape than I found it.” www.gassaferegister.co.uk 05

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | GAS SAFE REGISTER NEWS

Send your old ID card back to Gas Safe for recycling You can now send your expired ID card to Gas Safe Register to be recycled securely.

The Register wants to thank everyone who suggested this –

it’s clear that reducing the environmental impact of domestic waste is important to you and your feedback has been invaluable.

Gas Safe ID cards are made from tough polyvinyl chloride (PVC) so that they’re durable, but this poses recycling challenges. However, Gas Safe Register has been working with a recycling company to turn the cards into pellets, which will then be used to produce electrical energy.

How to return your expired ID card Check your registration renewal

Are you a real-life Gas Safe hero?

Throughout the year, Gas Safe Register is dedicated to creating eye-catching campaigns that spread awareness of the importance of gas safety. One of the best ways to really bring home to people why this so vital is to share real-life experiences.

This is where you come in. Gas Safe wants to work with you to share your own experiences and stories; whether it’s dangerous or illegal gas work that you’ve come across and put right, or nearmisses that put your customers’ lives at risk and that you put right.

The Register wants to shine a spotlight on your competence, skills and professionalism through real-life situations, and to illustrate the reasons why it’s so important that people should always use a Gas Safe registered engineer in their home. It’s just one way to help your business, your industry and your customer.

Please do share your stories (you can remain anonymous if you prefer) and help to keep the UK Gas Safe. You can email us at: editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk

Virtual inspection events are being trialled The past year has challenged everyone’s way of working.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Gas Safe Register ran highly successful Inspection Events where registered engineers were given technical updates and then asked to undertake assessments.

However, the restrictions that affect our lives mean that the Register has been unable to continue in this format. Gas Safe

has been reviewing how these important events could move online and is now looking at the detail of how to carry out virtual inspection events.

The Register will be trialling virtual inspection events with gas engineer volunteers later this month and we’ll bring you all the latest information as we have it.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on Gas Safe Register’s social media for more details too.

welcome letter. A freepost envelope has been included for you: just pop your card into the envelope, and return it to Gas Safe Register.

If you’ve misplaced the envelope or you renewed your registration recently and didn’t receive one (a small number of invitations were issued before the initiative went live) please get in touch and Gas Safe will send an envelope to you.

You can email Gas Safe at: register@gassaferegister.co.uk or telephone 0800 408 5500.

If you’re a large business with many expired cards, you can return the cards using any suitably sized envelope.

Please post them to: FREEPOST RUCB–LSHZ–CSAE Gas Safe ID Card Recycling PO Box 599 Darlington DL1 9DN

If you have any suggestions for future improvements from Gas Safe Register, please do get in touch via email at: register@gassaferegister.co.uk

This magazine on your phone and tablet You can stay up to date with all the latest news and essential gas safety information from us in three different ways: in print, in app and online.

We know that many of you enjoy spending time reading the print magazine at home or in your van. But when you need information fast, or you want to look something up quickly, you can find what you need on your phone and tablet when you use our free mobile app or search our website www.registeredgasengineer.co.uk

Using the free mobile app means you’ll have a digital store of up to 12 previous editions of the magazine on your phone and your tablet.

Every issue is fully searchable so you can always find just what you’re looking for quickly.

The app’s streaming news feed also carries the latest updates from Gas Safe Register and around the industry, essential technical information, and a jobs board.

Just search for Registered Gas Engineer on your usual app store – and don’t forget to allow notifications so that we can let you know when the latest issue is ready to download and read. www.gassaferegister.co.uk 07

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Vulnerable tenant lived in property with dangerous gas appliances A landlord has been given a suspended prison sentence after he failed to maintain the gas appliances at his rental property in Penlan, Swansea.

HSE, prosecuting, told Swansea Magistrates’ Court that there were numerous faults with gas appliances at the property, found between May and June 2017. The HSE had received a complaint from the tenant’s advocate, a tenancy support

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

worker for Swansea Young Families Scheme, Action for Children, who was acting on behalf of the vulnerable tenant.

Gas Safe Register inspectors discovered that the chimney/flue of the boiler in the attic had not been sealed properly so that products of combustion could enter the property, nor was it supported correctly. There were further boiler defects, and the tenant had not been provided with any temperature controls.

The gas cooker, which was owned by the tenant, had no stability chain or bracket fitted.

The gas supply was classified as Immediately Dangerous because the connection to the cap and liner meter outlet union had been made with an incorrect fitting and did not fit properly.

The installation pipework sleeve at the meter position under the stairs was not sealed and the gas meter regulator operating pressure was not within the acceptable tolerance.

The court heard that landlord Tariq Shehadeh, who bought the property from his parents in 2007 but who now lives in Doha, Qatar, failed to have the gas appliances inspected regularly or maintained, and failed to provide a landlord’s gas safety record.

Mr Shehadeh later complied with Improvement Notices that required him to take action to deal with these issues.

Mr Shehadeh pleaded guilty to breaching Regulations 28, 36(2), 36(3) and 36(4) of the Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 as amended.

He was given a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay full costs of £14,883.30.

Asbestos was strewn across the roof in property refurb A construction company and a property management company have both been fined after failing to manage asbestos safely during the refurbishment of a former office block in Stockport.

Manchester Magistrates’ Court heard that Samer Constructions had been contracted by Swift Property Management MCR to refurbish the property in Hazel Grove, Stockport.

Materials containing asbestos and general waste had been discarded from the property in August 2018, and were spread across the roof of a single-storey part of the block. Some of the materials had fallen on to a car

park area below that was not cordoned off from passing members of the public.

The HSE investigation found that an asbestos survey had been

carried out in May 2018, which identified the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) including licensed ACMs, But Swift Property Management MCR failed to pass on the survey to Samer Constructions before work started.

The court heard that Samer Constructions failed in its duty because it did not check whether a survey had been carried out.

It went ahead with the work in a reckless manner, which resulted in two employees being exposed to asbestos fibres.

Swift Property Management Limited of Denison Road, Manchester, pleaded guilty to

breaching sections 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

The company was fined £25,000 plus costs of £3,428.

Samer Constructions Limited of Platt Lane, Manchester, pleaded guilty to breaching sections 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. It was fined £12,000 plus costs of £3,428.

HSE inspector Phil Redman said: “These risks could so easily have been avoided by acting on the findings of the asbestos survey and carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices.”

Guaranteed contracts: a warning Once again, we’re hearing that gas engineers have lost money after they’ve signed up to so-called guaranteed contract work. A recent victim told Gas Safe Register: “The cost in my case was £2,300. If you are hungry for work, it is easy to get taken in by these people.”

This is how they operate: a company contacts you by phone or email, offering you 08 April 2021

exclusive and substantial guaranteed work in your postcode area. The company, often describing itself as a property maintenance firm, says it’s giving you a contract to exclusively provide landlords’ gas safety record checks and maintenance of gas appliances in a postcode area local to you.

But here’s the catch: you’ll be asked for a fee to secure the

‘exclusive’ contract, usually around £2,000. Or you may be invited to apply through a tender.

Several gas engineers have contacted Gas Safe Register, saying they have never received any work. They can’t get hold of the company to which they have paid their hard-earned money and they can’t recoup it.

These companies pop up

regularly and change name frequently. Their addresses are often serviced offices and any phone numbers provided are not in service or go through to virtual assistants only.

If you think you have been a victim, contact your bank and report anything suspicious to the police or Action Fraud.

Remember: if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | AROUND THE INDUSTRY

Post-Covid GB must prioritise green commitments, say Brits Just one in five people think Great Britain will hit net zero carbon by 2050, a survey commissioned by Northern Gas Networks has found.

And one in three people are unsure whether it could be carbon-neutral within the next 30 years.

However, A Climate for Change, a research report from Teesside University conducted by YouGov, reveals that people want to see greener policy commitments at the top of the agenda when the country begins to ‘build back better’ after the Covid-19 pandemic. Two-thirds (64 per cent) of survey respondents think the country should take the opportunity to rebuild the post-pandemic economy in a

way that is greener and better for the environment.

The research also found that more 18 to 24-year-olds want the government to prioritise unlocking investment in green energy (20 per cent) than on job creation (15 per cent).

The report investigates the current public attitudes around climate change and the shift to greener energy sources, as well as economic and environmental priorities.

Author Professor Matthew Cotton said: “The findings clearly show that public support for a green recovery is strong.

It is significant in the current circumstances that the youngest

Add renewables expertise with govt subsidy at ECTA Gas engineers can get up to 70 per cent off training for renewables at Stockport training provider ECTA. Funding has been granted by BEIS and the Midlands Growth Hub for training in heat pumps and solar thermal systems to support engineers qualify in technologies that can be installed under the Green Homes Grant.

Engineers can also claim the funding for qualifications including Energy Efficiency, Water Regulations and Unvented Hot

Water Systems, as well as the renewables qualifications that are recognised by MCS. ECTA director Dave Berry says: “The government drive towards green technologies offers an opportunity for installers to diversify their businesses, and prepare themselves for the growth in interest from customers.

“There will be a demand for many more qualified people than currently exist.” www.ectatraining.co.uk

Adam pushes 3,000 for charity A determined Baxi project manager has completed 3,000 press ups in just under 10 hours, raising £1,200 for Teenage Cancer Trust.

The press-ups challenge encourages participants to raise vital funds by completing 3,000 press ups during a month. But Adam Badat completed the full challenge in under 10 hours.

The funds raised by his efforts will go towards the important work the charity does to support young people living with cancer.

Adam says: “When I’m not a project manager at Baxi, I’m 10 April 2021

always at the gym, so it was the perfect way to put me through my paces and raise money for such a great cause.”

survey respondents prioritised green innovation ahead of job creation, considering the negative impact of Covid-19 on the labour market that many in this age group will now be entering.

“Businesses have a responsibility to provide environmental and community-led initiatives as part of the nation’s recovery.”

The NGN survey also revealed that: • 60 per cent of those asked said investing in green infrastructure would help work towards achieving the net-zero target • 42 per cent consider that one of the benefits of using hydrogen is that it’s a clean alternative to

fossil fuels for heating homes and businesses • 31 per cent identified a lack of commitment from government to make policy decisions to achieve net zero as a top concern, regarding how the country is responding to climate change.

Mark Horsley, CEO of Northern Gas Networks, said: “This research suggests that, when it comes to specific transitions to alternative energy sources such as hydrogen, public awareness and understanding is very low.

People want to know more about how a change to hydrogen will affect them, their bills and their existing household appliances such as boilers.”

New gas centre aims to drive up standards The National Gas Centre for Excellence (NGCFE) has opened its doors in Featherstone, West Yorkshire, to tackle the national shortage in qualified heating engineers. It also aims to prepare for the heating technologies of the future, as well as providing ACS, says managing director Michael Hunt (pictured).

The 6,000ft2 centre aims to drive up standards by providing an alternative to tick-box training, focusing on the needs of gas engineers – from those just completing basic training to fully qualified engineers updating their ACS. Michael, who is a qualified heating engineer, says: “The tick-box approach to training often fails to offer the depth of knowledge and theory that is required.”

The centre, close to the M62 and A1, provides practical experience, with workshop and classroom spaces fully kitted out with the latest heating, ventilation, and plumbing technology.

A large area is allocated for future training requirements, including renewables and

hydrogen heating systems.

“More than half of all qualified gas engineers are aged over 55 and, as they leave or retire, they are not being replaced at a fast enough rate,” says Michael.

“I’m determined to set new standards of excellence when it comes to training and customer service to encourage more people into what is a rewarding career.

“While the majority of the UK’s homes continue to use gas boilers, they will eventually be replaced by new heating technologies, such as hydrogen and electric heat pumps – which will require fully trained engineers to install, maintain and repair them.” ngcfe.co.uk

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PROFILE

Mike’s good vibrations What does a gas engineer with 30 years in the industry do next? Think about retiring?

Or start again, to bring to market a simple idea that could save others from the stress and cost of having their van broken into. Registered Gas Engineer talks to Mike Horsfall about his stand against one of the scourges of the industry.

A

fter Mike Horsfall had fallen victim to repeated thefts of copper from the pipe carrier on his van, he decided to do something about it. “I recognised that the unalarmed pipe carrier drew the attention of thieves to my van, who grew in confidence knowing that it was unalarmed,” he says.

The thefts were costing Mike hundreds of pounds in lost copper. He realised that the problem with pipe carriers was that they couldn’t be alarmed in the same way that vans are. And that got him thinking. “If I could design an alarm system that prevented the thief from initiating contact with any part of my van, it would be an effective deterrent

and move thieves along.”

He talked to other engineers around Leeds, where he lives, who had suffered the same thefts.

“I found that vehicle security was expensive,” he says. “And what good is an alarm that activates after the door’s open? Van alarms don’t protect from the superficial damage that thieves can inflict, so people put additional locks on. And that’s what has spawned this scourge of door peeling: thieves can’t get in, so they just peel the door. That exacerbates the problem because the alarm doesn’t go off if the door’s not open.”

Two-and-a-half years of hard work followed, resulting in the creation of

WIN

Win a Van Guardian dual alarm We’ve teamed up with Van Guardian to offer three lucky readers the chance to win a Dual Alarm.

To be in with the chance of winning, just head over to their website at www.Vanguardian.co.uk and follow the instructions you’ll find there.

The competition closes on 30 April 2021.

Usual Registered Gas Engineer competition rules, terms and conditions apply (see page 51).

“What good is an alarm that activates after the van door is open? They don’t protect from the superficial damage that thieves inflict.”

Van Guardian, an early warning alarm system. It activates when anyone touches the van in the zonal area that the device covers, sounding a 110dB alarm.

Motor tech The technology behind it is a triaxl accelerometer, which comes from the motor industry and measures vibration in a wind tunnel. Mike combined this with a programmable microchip, which senses contact and then activates, and encased it in a waterproof housing. The alarm fixes firmly to the van with no need for drilling or wiring and provides protection, activated by remote control.

As a sole trader gas engineer, Mike didn’t have a background in engineering, manufacturing or electronics, and had to learn everything for himself, sourcing parts and finding a manufacturer to make the waterproof housing in which the alarm sits. “I had to test, adjust and test again.”

The bespoke housing is made of vacuum-formed plastic, manufactured by a family company in Crossgates, Leeds.

“It had to withstand the rigours of all weather and being exposed on

a van doing 70mph and then going in a jet wash,” he says.

Until now, Mike has been multi-tasking, bringing Van Guardian to the market alongside working as a gas engineer.

“Last night I was up until 1am working on the design and parts of the website,” he told us.

“And this morning I’ve been out and done gas servicing.”

He’s always looking at ways to improve and expand Van Guardian, and he’s now working on a tracking function. So it looks as though being a gas engineer will have to take a back seat.

“I’ve been self-employed for 30 years and I have a lot of clients that rely on my services, so it’s hard to say ‘no I can’t do it any more’. But Van Guardian requires my attention now and my focus is to try and continue to introduce it into local independent merchants.”

And Mike wants something to tangible to involve his two young sons, Frederick and Harry, who often spot vans sporting his invention when they’re out and about. “They say, look, there’s one of daddy’s alarms. That’s priceless.” n www.vanguardian.co.uk 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

The chimney to this boiler, fitted three years previously, had never been installed correctly because the hole was too high Richard Roberts made the installation safe.

A DIY plume kit had been made by Ryan Grosvenor’s customer using waste/ downpipe with a plastic covering (clearly showing heat damage). Ryan made safe and installed a new plume kit specific to the boiler manufacturer.

The chimney terminal had been ‘modified’ using plumbing fittings to remove the products of combustion after the customer had some building alterations.

Steve Poole made safe and the installation has been rectified.

This severely corroded gas supply to the gas fire was causing a smell of gas, says Ben Somerwill. Not only had the pipework not been adequately protected using the correct material, but the fire surround had been stuck to the wall using expanding foam.

Ben made safe.

14 April 2021

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR PHOTOS

This month winne ’s r

Paul Farr was asked about the reason for a roaring noise from the boiler. He soon found out why.

Leigh Brown found a meter installation where someone had encased part of the meter in concrete screed. The meter has been refitted.

Nathaniel Smith attended a breakdown, where a second-hand boiler had been installed by a ‘friend’. Nathaniel identified seven water leaks, an incorrect chimney, and incorrectly installed condensate pipe termination. When he carried out a tightness test, he got a straight drop-out on his U-gauge.

Chris Jones stumbled across (or over) a boiler chimney pushed through an old balanced-flue chimney terminal.

The chimney had been installed too close to the pavement, with no guard.

Someone had cut through a whole section of the joist to accommodate a vertical chimney rather than routing around it, not to mention the minimum distance required from combustible material and adequate support to the chimney.

Adam Tamea made safe.

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 Rob from CombiCare found this old balanced-flue boiler terminal with an invading tomato plant. It’s anyone’s guess how some of those beauties will be harvested. The vegetation was cut away and a flue guard has been installed.

Holy bat breakdown!

Adam Tamea found why his customer’s boiler wasn’t working: a bat had travelled along the chimney to the fan compartment.

The obstruction was removed.

Tony Thomas got a shock when he saw that the electrical supply to the boiler had been cable-tied to the gas supply. The electrical supply has now been re-routed.

Gregory Smith’s customer had no hot water (unsurprisingly) – Gregory made safe.

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 APM 155 2bar differential pressure meter, complete with tilt boot, and magnet and hook, worth more than £238.

The APM 155 can save logs and print test results to an infrared printer with your company name and number, or wireless transfer to Anton’s free Sprint Mobile app (iOS or Android) to create professional PDF customer reports.

It’s suitable for medium-pressure testing and strength testing up to 2bar (2000mbar), and has high-pressure spigot connections for tube size 6mm OD/4mm ID. Using the APM 155, you can test, log and share data, as well as carrying out gas rating and creating and PDF reports, when used in conjunction with Sprint Mobile app.

This month’s winner is Leigh Brown from Mickleover, Derby. Congratulations!

16 April 2021

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LETTERS

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

‘I’m glad the fire failed when it did’ This is why I love my job – without a doubt, saving customers’ lives. This roomsealed fire was not working: the ignition lead had cracked, it was arcing off the thermocouple, and had been taped up as temporary fix.

I was carrying out Regulation 26.9 checks and suspected that

all was not right. I ran my analyser around as a room CO test, which picked up 135ppm and rising.

The customer’s CO alarm was on a table, not in the correct position: when she moved it above the fire, it immediate alarmed.

I evacuated the elderly

customers and ventilated, capped off the fire, and found the rope seal was at fault as it was not sealing.

A new fire has been fitted but, more importantly, two lives were definitely saved. I’m glad the fire had failed when did.

Rob Wilson RW Gas Services

Why replace boilers when they can be fixed?

I fitted a heating system for a regular customer 35 years ago.

The boiler I fitted lasted 28 years – not uncommon for the old type of boilers back then that were made from cast iron.

Seven years ago, the boiler had to be replaced and the customer found out he was eligible for a free boiler. He had one fitted for free and I serviced it regularly.

He contacted me last week as he was having a problem with the pump. I then found out he has since had another new boiler (from the same manufacturer) fitted free of charge.

Apparently, as the boiler was seven years old, they contacted the customer, telling him he was eligible for a new boiler.

The customer found it hard to believe, but he wasn’t going to

refuse. I find it ridiculous to take out a perfectly good boiler.

We are trying to save the planet and this beggars belief.

I have just found out that another customer of mine has had a seven-year-old boiler replaced. I am fairly sure these two boilers could have given another seven or eight years of service. It’s wrong on all fronts.

Paul Davis

Retirees will leave a big hole in our industry I read with interest the results of the ‘Who are you 2021’ reader survey (March 2021).

I believe I speak for many, as it is apparent to me that the 62 per cent of us aged 46-65; the 54 per cent of us who have accumulated more than 21 years of experience, and the 81 per cent whose customers come from word-of-mouth recommendations will leave a big hole in the gas industry in

the years to come – especially as hydrogen takes over – due to our retirement and us ‘oldies’ sticking to traditional work.

This is backed up by only 10 per cent of us dealing with new-builds, which, as we have seen, are slow to happen.

Renewables, in my opinion, are based on the government helping the industry, which has previously failed to happen.

Let’s hope I am wrong,

but time will tell.

Perhaps if the government gave any homeowner with a boiler over 15 years old a cash incentive for a gas engineer to swap it with no ring-fencing strings attached, it would help lower global greenhouse gas emissions. The same incentive could apply to renewables and help secure and futureproof the industry.

Alan Teal, Gaswaves

No more plastic please Why does my magazine come in a plastic bag when there are biodegradable alternatives?

I receive other publications in biodegradable bags and suggest this publication starts to do likewise.

Keith D’Arcy From the editor: Keith makes a very good point that’s been on our mind too. We’re finishing up our stock of polythene wrapping now so as not to waste it, and we will be switching to a much more environmentally friendly wrapper very soon.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 19

Say Hy to a hydrogen future The UK’s first homes to be fuelled entirely by hydrogen open in Gateshead this month. Registered Gas Engineer examines the industry’s latest plans to help the UK transition to hydrogen heating.

H

ydrogen has long been hailed as a clean alternative to natural gas that could soon be used to power the appliances in our homes. The potential benefits of hydrogen as the UK transitions to a net-zero economy are clear: it burns cleanly, producing only water when consumed, and it can be distributed across the country using the existing mains gas infrastructure.

the publishing of a complete Hydrogen Strategy later in 2021.

This month, the first UK homes with appliances fuelled entirely by hydrogen are due to open at a Northern Gas Networks site in Low Thornley, Gateshead.

The two semi-detached homes will show how hydrogen can be used as a clean, safe replacement to natural gas in the home.

Hydrogen will be used for

“New schemes being introduced this year are designed to demonstrate the potential of hydrogen in real-world settings.”

The government and the energy industry have been exploring possible ways to use the gas, including establishing a hydrogen neighbourhood, and the development of plans for a potential hydrogen town by the end of the 2020s.

The government hopes hydrogen will play a vital role in achieving its commitment of eliminating the UK’s contribution to climate change by 2050.

In its Ten-Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution, the government has also suggested that using hydrogen could create up to 8,000 jobs across Britain by 2030, and potentially unlock 100,000 jobs by 2050.1 New schemes being introduced this year are designed to demonstrate its potential in real-world settings, ahead of 20 April 2021

domestic heating and cooking in the properties, fuelling appliances including boilers, hobs, cookers and fires. The homes are not intended to be inhabited but will have a lifespan of three to ten years as a showcase for the fuel.

Each house will be open to the public, who will be able to see the appliances and see how they compare to natural gas-fuelled ones. Local schools, colleges and universities can also visit and learn more about the new technology, as well as about potential careers in the emerging green economy and in science, technology, engineering and maths subjects.

This project is being funded through a £250,000 grant from the government’s Hy4Heat innovation programme, as well as

by Northern Gas Networks and

Cadent, which have each given £250,000 of funding.

Energy minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan says: “From running a hot bath and cooking our evening meals to turning on the heating, most of us use natural gas every day. However, to tackle climate change, we need to find alternatives to fossil fuels and move towards making clean energy the norm.

“While these new houses in Gateshead will look like any other, they will showcase how low-carbon hydrogen can transform the way we power our homes and offer a glimpse of what the future holds as we build back greener.”

Other hydrogen boiler demonstrations are also under way in the UK. In late 2020, hydrogen-burning combi boilers

by Baxi Heating and Worcester Bosch were installed in specially built demonstration houses on ‘Hy Street’ – DNV GL’s specialist test site at Spadeadam, Northumberland. The project is part of H21, a Network Innovation Competition project sponsored by Ofgem, which is demonstrating how existing natural gas networks can safely carry 100 per cent hydrogen fuel. Northern Gas Networks is leading this project with partners Cadent, Scottish Gas Networks, Wales & West Utilities, National Grid, DNV GL and HSE’s science division.

What is hydrogen?

Hydrogen is one of the most common chemical elements on earth and can be found in almost all molecules in living things. It has the potential to be a very efficient fuel source, depending on how it is created, because it burns well in conditions where there is more oxygen present than fuel.

It can be produced using many different resources, such as natural gas, nuclear power, biogas, or renewable sources like solar and wind. But the different production methods lead to different types of hydrogen – known as green, blue and grey.

According to National Grid, blue hydrogen is produced from non-renewable energy sources, either through steam methane reformation or through autothermal reforming. Steam methane reformation uses a reformer, which reacts to steam at a high temperature and pressure with methane and a nickel catalyst to form hydrogen and carbon dioxide.2 Autothermal reforming uses oxygen and either carbon dioxide or steam to react with methane to form hydrogen.

Blue hydrogen creates carbon as a by-product, so carbon capture and storage systems must be used to store this carbon for future use, mitigating the environmental impact.

Grey hydrogen is produced using fossil fuels, such as natural

1 www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-ten-point-plan-for-a-green-industrial-revolution/title 2 www.nationalgrid.com/stories/energy-explained/what-is-hydrogen

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | HYDROGEN

UK manufacturers commit to hydrogen future The Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC) and UK boiler manufacturers have reached an agreement in principle to support any future government legislation that mandates hydrogen-ready domestic boilers from 2025. In a letter to the Prime Minister, HHIC said this commitment is several years ahead of similar action being proposed within the European Union.

Director Stewart Clements says: “UK boiler manufacturers are clearly leading the way to achieving net zero, setting the pace for the rest of Europe to follow. This pledge, from across our membership, will allow the government to introduce regulation mandating hydrogen-ready boilers for UK use, safe in the knowledge that UK manufacturers will deliver those appliances into homes.

“HHIC has already developed a specification with industry detailing what a hydrogen-ready boiler is. In short, this means boilers already in homes will need under an hour of adjustment to allow a future switch from natural gas to hydrogen.

“The government can then confirm in its upcoming heat decarbonisation plan and hydrogen strategy that it has the long-term plan to repurpose current gas networks for hydrogen as a key tool to achieving zero-carbon heating for over four in five UK homes currently using natural gas.”

gas. This accounts for around 95 per cent of all the hydrogen produced in the world today, but because it uses fossil fuels to create, and emits CO2 into the atmosphere, it is not very energy efficient: it produces 10kg of emissions for every 1kg of hydrogen produced.

Green hydrogen is created using electricity to create pure hydrogen, with only water as a by-product. Any excess electricity can then be diverted to electrolysis, creating hydrogen.

Modelling the route to cleaner gas The UK’s existing natural gas network can be repurposed to operate with hydrogen, according to a new industry modelling report. The report from Northern Gas Networks, in collaboration with Cadent, Scottish Gas Networks and Wales & West Utilities, builds on the earlier H21 Leeds City Gate project, which established that a hydrogen conversion of the gas grid was

technically possible and economically viable.

Networks in the urban areas of Bournemouth, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Hull and Beverley, Liverpool, Teesside and West Yorkshire have now been modelled to explore how well a 100 per cent hydrogen network could meet people’s needs.

Recommendations from the report highlight the work involved

in building a conversion strategy for each town, as well as using the existing mains replacement programme to prepare the networks. It says any pipes being replaced should be sized ready for hydrogen, and valves installed now that could be used later to aid conversion.

Lorna Millington, future networks manager at Cadent, says: “The towns gas conversion of the 1960s and 1970s provides a blueprint for a successful

transition. We have looked at how the gas network could be sectorised to cause minimum disruption to customers. It is proposed that a conversion would be completed in the warmer months when gas demand is lower.

“While isolating larger areas means the conversion is quicker, it may also lead to a longer disruption to service for customers, so there is a balance to strike.” www.gassaferegister.co.uk 21

>

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | HYDROGEN

>

2020-2025 Prepare for transition

2025-2030 Pilot solutions

2030-2040 Scaling up

2040-2050 Full transition

Networks plan to create hydrogen town Britain’s gas networks have set out their roadmap to deliver the UK’s first hydrogen town by 2020, in line with the government’s Ten-Point Plan. Published as part of Energy Networks Association’s Gas Goes Green programme, the Britain’s Hydrogen Network Plan report reveals details of the activity that all five of Britain’s gas network companies will undertake.

This includes how they will be ready to start blending up to 20 per cent hydrogen into the gas grid by 2023, and how they will deliver the UK’s first hydrogen town by 2030.

Key steps in the plan include: • Ensuring the safe delivery of hydrogen through innovation projects such as the Hy4Heat programme, and the H21, H100 Fife and HyNTS Future Grid projects, which are testing different parts of the gas network.

• Maintaining security of the energy supply to ensure there is enough capacity to meet Britain’s energy demands using hydrogen. This includes modelling how gas networks will behave to ensure capacity is put in place in the right places,

and to understand how much hydrogen will be needed.

• Work to help reduce carbon emissions, while ensuring that people and businesses have a choice of different low-carbon technologies. This includes delivering hydrogen village trials, and hydrogen neighbourhood domestic trials of different appliances. The Future Billing Methodology and Real Time Networks projects will help ensure consumers continue to receive accurate gas bills.

• Delivering jobs and investment, including through the replacement of old iron mains-gas pipes around the country with new, hydrogenready pipes instead. By 2032, the companies plan to have invested £28 billion in such projects around the country.

The plan is to be delivered in four broad stages. Over the next five years, the gas networks will begin preparing for the transition to hydrogen, including continuing the Irons Mains Risk Reduction Programme, completing the safety case, trialling 100 per cent hydrogen in homes, and carrying out network modelling to ensure security of supply. This will help

inform future government policy decisions on conversion of the gas network.

Between 2025 and 2030, the networks will carry out pilots, including larger 100 per cent hydrogen domestic pilots; introducing 20 per cent blending in parts of the network; and billing on the basis of energy content rather than volume.

The programme to replace old iron mains pipes with those capable of carrying hydrogen will also continue.

In the 2030s, the networks plan to scale up the move to hydrogen further by building new pipelines between industrial clusters to connect with storage facilities, and to connect hydrogen production to the networks. The iron mains replacement programme should be completed, after which they will roll out 100 per cent hydrogen conversion for use in homes, dispersed industry and transport.

Stage four, the full transition to hydrogen, will occur in the 2040s. A national hydrogen network will then be in place, with hydrogen being a normal part of the training requirements for Gas Safe engineers. ■

IGEM launches Hydrogen Knowledge Centre IGEM’s new Hydrogen Knowledge Centre is a digital library with a searchable database of research, reports, data, videos and presentations.

The Knowledge Centre holds more than 1,300 resources on everything from hydrogen production, transmission, distribution and storage, to applications, safety and blending. IGEM will continue to expand the Knowledge Centre with the latest research as it emerges, supported by hydrogen projects currently under way across the UK and internationally.

Neil Atkinson, chief executive officer, says: “For a healthy hydrogen economy to take shape with the urgency required, it is essential that the industry works collaboratively and can access and share knowledge across all sectors. We’ve created a carefully curated database of resources from a wide range of sources, including gas network companies, academic

22 April 2021

institutions, research bodies, supply chain organisations and industry experts.”

The Hydrogen Knowledge Centre is one aspect of IGEM’s work to support the country’s net-zero ambitions.

The Institution is working in partnership with industry and government to support the feasibility and safety evidence base for scaling up low-carbon gases and hydrogen into the existing UK gas network.

IGEM members have automatic access to the Hydrogen Knowledge Centre, but anyone can join IGEM as an associate member to access the content.

The Hydrogen Knowledge Centre was developed with support from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) through its Energy Innovation Programme. www.h2knowledgecentre.com

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Technical Bulletin 159

Developed by BSI, IGEM, HHIC and Progressive Energy

Natural gas standards when working on domestic installations being supplied with natural gas containing up to 20 vol% hydrogen Date issued: 23 March 2021

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance to Gas Safe registered businesses and engineers related to the impact on working practices when undertaking activities on domestic natural gas installations being supplied with natural gas containing up to 20 vol% hydrogen.

Background Following research undertaken by the HyDeploy project(1), all IGEM and BSI standards that underpin ACS natural gas domestic and commercial competencies were reviewed; this review related to the potential impacts of a 20 vol% hydrogen blend on public safety and the function of appliances and domestic gas installations.

The review process was carried out by Blue Flame Associates working in collaboration with the HyDeploy Consortium (Note 1).

The review(2) of standards was further peer reviewed by the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM), the British Standards Institution (BSI), the Heating and Hot Water Industry Council (HHIC) and the gas industry Standards Consultation Forum (SCF). The conclusions of the review as it relates to domestic installations and appliances form the basis of this Technical Bulletin.

Review process As part of the HyDeploy project, an expert group of technical and procedural specialists collated and reviewed all BSI and IGEM procedures that underpin natural gas competencies for domestic and commercial working practices. The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to detail the output of the review as it relates to domestic working practices. Technical areas assessed included: 1. Chimney/flue design 2. Ventilation design 3. Seals and gaskets 4. Combustion analysis* 5. CO detection 6. Leak detection fluids 7. Proving devices 8. Pipework installation

24 April 2021

9. T ightness testing & purging 10. G as meters, including heat input calculations 11. Excess flow valves 12. Flame arrestors 13. Temperature exposure 14. A ppliance installation and maintenance 15. Commissioning * Technical detail on the applicability of combustion analysers and their associated performance criteria can be found in Technical Bulletin 157(3).

In total, 57 standards were reviewed and a total of 83 technical questions were generated; these questions related to the potential impact of a 20 vol% hydrogen blend on the routine application of the standard by a Gas Safe registered engineer. All questions were issued to an expert technical group of the HyDeploy Consortium to provide supporting evidence of any implications. An iterative process of review and discussion was undertaken to agree the impact that a 20 vol% hydrogen blend would have on all aspects of the standards reviewed.

Following the preliminary review, a second peer review was undertaken by a mixture of industry experts, including both standard setting bodies, BSI and IGEM: 1. I GEM Gas Utilisation Committee 2. I GEM Hydrogen Committee 3. B SI GSE/30 – Gas Installations (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases) Committee 4. A select group of manufacturers and installers (HHIC), and 5. M embers of the Standards Consultation Forum (SCF).

The peer review process generated an additional 69

comments/questions, which were further addressed and the final conclusions issued to IGEM and BSI. Conclusion The review demonstrated that no change to domestic natural gas standards is required to account for the impacts associated with the introduction of a 20 vol% hydrogen blend within natural gas supplies.

No additional measures, guidance or actions are necessary to account for the potential presence of a blend of hydrogen up to 20 vol% within natural gas supplies for domestic installations and appliances.

A minority of technologyspecific commercial areas remain for possible future study (eg, internal combustion gas engines, CNG filing stations) and these will be addressed during future investigations.

BSI Standards reviewed BS 715: 2005 Specification for metal flue boxes for gas-fired appliances not exceeding 20kW BS 5440: Flueing and ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net Part 1: 2008 Specification for installation of gas appliances to chimneys and for maintenance of chimneys Part 2: 2009 Specification for the installation and maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances BS 5546: 2010 Specification for installation and maintenance of gas fired water heating appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net.

BS 5864: 2019 Installation and maintenance of gas fired ducted air heaters of rated input not

exceeding 70kW net – Specification BS 5871: Specification for installation of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers and decorative fuel-effect gas appliances Part 1: 2005 Gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers and heating stoves Part 2: 2005 Inset live fuel effect gas fires of heat input not exceeding 15kW, and back boilers Part 3: 2005 Decorative fuel effect gas appliances of heat input not exceeding 20kW Part 4: 2007 Independent gas-fired flueless fires, convector heaters and heating stoves of nominal heat input not exceeding 6kW BS 6172: 2019 Specification for installation, servicing and maintenance of domestic gas cooking appliances BS 6173: 2009 Specification for installation and maintenance of gas fired catering appliances for use in all types of catering establishments BS 6230: 2011 Specification for installation and maintenance of gas fired forced convection air heaters for commercial and industrial space heating BS 6400: Specification for installation, exchange, relocation, maintenance and removal of gas meters with a maximum rated capacity not exceeding 6m3/h.

Part 1: 2016 Low pressure (2nd family gases) Part 2: 2018 Medium pressure BS 6644: 2011 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas-fired hot water boilers of rated inputs between 70kW (net) and 1.8MW (net) (Incorporating Corrigendum No. 1)

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | TECHNICAL BULLETIN

BS 6798: 2014 Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of gas fired boilers of rated input not exceeding 70kW net BS 6891: 2015 Specification for the installation and maintenance of low pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35 mm (R1¼) on premises (Incorporating Amendment No. 1) BS 6896: 2011 Specification for installation and maintenance of gas-fired overhead radiant heaters for industrial and commercial heating BS 7624: 2004 Installation and maintenance of domestic direct gas fired tumble dryers of up to 6kW heat input – Specification BS 7967: 2015 Guide for the use of electronic portable combustion gas analysers for the measurement of carbon monoxide in dwellings and the combustion performance of domestic gas fired appliances BS 8446: 2005 Specification for the installation and maintenance of open flued, non-domestic gas fired laundry appliances BS 8660: 2011 Gas-fired micro-cogeneration appliances of rates thermal input not exceeding 70kW net Part 1: 2011 Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of Stirling engine microcogeneration appliances BS EN 161: 2007 Automatic shutoff valves for gas burners and gas appliances IGEM Standards reviewed IGE/UP/1: Edition 2 Strength testing, tightness testing and direct purging of industrial and commercial gas installations

(Reprint with Amendments) IGE/UP/1A: Edition 2 Strength testing, tightness testing and direct purging of small, low pressure industrial and commercial natural gas installations (Reprint with Amendments) IGEM/UP/1B: Edition 3 Tightness testing and direct purging of small liquefied petroleum gas/air, natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas installations (Incorporating Amendments) IGEM/UP/1C: Edition 1 Strength testing, tightness testing and direct purging of Natural Gas and LPG meter installations IGEM/UP/2 : Edition 3 Installation pipework on industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/3: Edition 3 Gas fuelled spark ignition and dual-fuel engines IGEM/UP/6: Edition 2 Application of compressors to Natural Gas fuel systems IGEM/UP/9: Edition 2 Application of Natural Gas and fuel oil systems to gas turbines and supplementary and auxiliary fired burners.

IGEM/UP/10: Edition 4 Installation of flued gas appliances in industrial and commercial premises (Incorporating Amendments) IGEM/UP/11: Edition 3 Gas installations for educational establishments IGEM/UP/16: Edition 1 Design for Natural Gas installations on industrial and commercial premises with respect to hazardous area classification and preparation of risk assessments (Incorporating Amendments)

IGEM/UP/17: Edition 2 Shared chimney and flue systems for domestic gas appliances IGEM/UP/18: Edition 1 Gas installations for vehicle repair and body shops IGEM/UP/19: Edition 1 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments (Incorporating Amendments) IGEM/UP/20: Edition 1 Compressed Natural Gas fuelling stations IGEM/UP/1101: Edition 1 Guidance on gas installations for the management and staff within educational establishments IGEM/IG/2: Edition 1 Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments (Incorporating Amendments) IGEM/G/6: Edition 1 Gas supplies to mobile dwellings IGEM/G/11: Edition 1 Gas industry unsafe situations procedure (Incorporating Amendments) IGEM/GL/8: Edition 3 Reporting and investigation of gas-related incidents IGEM/GM/5: Edition 3 Electronic gas volume conversion systems IGEM/GM/6: Edition 2 Non domestic meter installations – Standard designs IGEM/GM/7A: Edition 2 Electrical connections for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/7B: Edition 2 Hazardous area classification for gas metering equipment IGE/GM/8: Non domestic meter installations – Flow rate exceeding 6m3/h and inlet pressure not exceeding 38bar

Part 1: Edition 2 Design Part 2: Edition 2 Location, housing & compounds Part 3: Edition 2 Fabrication, installation, testing and commissioning Part 4: Edition 2 Operation and maintenance Part 5: Edition 2 Notices and labels IGEM/SR/25: Edition 2 Hazardous area classification of Natural Gas installations Note 1: The HyDeploy Consortium consists of Cadent, Northern Gas Networks, Progressive Energy, Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Bespoke Research and Consultancy, Keele University and ITM Power.

Note 2: For the avoidance of doubt, this Technical Bulletin relates only to the operation of domestic installations with a blend of up to 20 vol% hydrogen in natural gas supplies, and does not constitute any guidance relating to 100 vol% hydrogen operations.

Bibliography (1) HyDeploy project (https:// hydeploy.co.uk/) (2) Downstream Gas Standards Review, Blue Flame Associates (2020), available from IGEM upon request (3) Technical Bulletin 157, CO and combustion ratio checks using an Electronic Combustion Gas Analyser (ECGA) when carrying out works on natural gas appliances being supplied with natural gas containing up to 20 vol% hydrogen Note: Gas Safe Register Technical Bulletins and the Legislative, Normative & Informative Document List can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www.gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in/

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 25

The tale of a hidden Are you sitting comfortably? Then we’ll begin. This is a story about an everyday job in an everyday gas engineer’s everyday life. And how they may have just saved their customer’s life.

By Jon Palmer, Gas Safe Register Technical Support Officer.

I

t’s Monday morning and I’ve picked up my first job sent from the office. I’ve arrived at a small semi-detached house in a quiet close on the outskirts of town.

The house seems well maintained and, as I walk up the path through the front garden, it feels like the gnomes are watching me.

The customer directs me through the small but tidy passageway to her kitchen.

“The boiler’s in that cupboard,” she says, pointing to a larder unit in the corner. “It was fitted last year by a local chap. He was ever so nice, but he’s not turned up twice now to do the service, so I had to call someone else in.

It needs to be done for the warranty, you see.”

I assure her it’s no problem as I put my toolbox down, and I open the larder door to take my first, cursory glance at the installation. At first sight, the installation seems to be OK. The pipes are straight, evenly spaced and clipped. There’s a magnetic filter fitted to the return pipe. And the condense has been run into 1½” waste pipe, which is then

make it easy to pop off though.”

While she makes me a nice cup of tea, I go out to my van to grab my stepladders, returning just in time to see a selection of biscuits laid out on a plate next to my steaming cuppa. I set up my steps, climb the first few rungs and take a look at the boxing.

“I notice a puddle of water on top of the wall unit. I pull off the panel covering the chimney/flue and inside I find a horror show.” taken out through the wall.

It’s then that I notice that the chimney/flue pipe doesn’t run straight out through the wall behind the boiler, but turns right, running above the other wall units in the kitchen and out through the back wall.

I hadn’t noticed this at first because the space has been covered with boxing – obviously to hide the chimney/flue, I think. “Did the boiler installer do that boxing?”

I ask. “Oh yes, he said he’d hide that ugly old pipe for me,” the woman replies. “He said he’d 26 April 2021

It’s then that I notice a puddle of water on top of the wall unit.

Feeling apprehensive, I grab a little handle that has been attached to the boxing and pull off the panel covering the chimney/flue.

Inside, I find a horror show.

While the rest of the installation looks good, the chimney/flue most certainly is not. Only one clip has been fitted, installed to hold the first section in place.

But there are no clips on the next three sections and, worst of all, two of those sections have come

apart, spewing products of combustion into the property.

There’s water all over the top of the units.

“Have you noticed water dripping down from up here?”

I ask the customer, concerned as to if and how long she may have been being exposed to carbon monoxide.

“Sometimes,” she answers.

“If the heating has been on a while, I seem to get water on my tiles at the back. I thought maybe it was condensation.”

I step down from the ladder and say: “I’m ever so sorry to tell you this, but your boiler is very dangerous, and I’ve got to turn it off immediately. Your chimney/flue pipe has separated, and the water you see at the back is actually water from the chimney/ flue. Have you been feeling unwell at all lately? Headaches?

Any flu-type symptoms?”

6.2 Leakage of products of combustion from room-sealed chimney system eg, evidence of products of combustion; leakage from the chimney/flue system; appliance or condensate air break.

“Well, I do get headaches sometimes if I’ve been in here cooking for the family,” she tells me, looking worried. “But I just thought it was because of the heat.”

“OK, that may be the reason, but I want you to get yourself to the doctor and get checked for CO poisoning. Do that now.

Unfortunately, I’m going to have to cut off your boiler. Let me just check the Unsafe Situations book I have. I need to check whether this is RIDDOR reportable. You phone your doctor, and I’ll set about making you safe.”

As the customer goes off to phone her surgery, I grab my tablet and call up the GIUSP (IGEM/G/11 Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure).

I open the document and look down the sections till I get to the chimney/flue section.

There it is, 6.2: ID Where the affected property is one of a number of similar properties in a block or complex, include the approximate number of properties in the development in the summary of the report.

Also classify as ID signs of distress to material enclosing a concealed chimney/flue system with no evidence of subsequent corrective remedial work.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | UNSAFE SITUATIONS

horror And there, at the top of the page it explains about RIDDOR. When considering whether an unsafe situation is RIDDOR reportable the following criteria need to be met: 1. T he situation is as a result of the design, construction, manner of installation, modification or incorrect servicing of the fitting (often referred to as poor workmanship/design), AND 2. I t is dangerous to such an extent it is likely to, or has caused: death, unconsciousness, taking to hospital of a person.

Note: See Section 8.6 for all other reporting routes.

Is the situation the result of the manner of installation of the fitting?

Yes it is. It hasn’t been supported properly.

Is it dangerous to the extent that it is likely to cause death or unconsciousness? I’d say so.

Therefore, this situation is RIDDOR reportable as well as Immediately Dangerous.

So, I follow the GIUSP and go to section 8 on RIDDOR reporting.

Following the advice in this, I can see that this is a reportable under

RIDDOR 11(2). That means I must do it online, within 14 days from today.

I locate the gas meter and isolate the gas, after first doing a tightness test to check that there are no further surprises in store.

After that, I cut and cap the gas pipe below the boiler, stick a ‘Danger: Do Not Use’ sticker on it, and fill out a warning notice, exactly as I’m told to in section 6 of the GIUSP. As I do this, I explain what I’m doing and why I’m doing it to my now very worried customer. After all, I can only do this with her permission. I’d hate to have to phone the gas transporter if she refused. I retest the pipework and turn the gas back on, so that at least she can use her cooker, and I notice there’s a gas fire in the front room for heating too. This, she assures me, is serviced every year by the local fire centre that installed it.

OK, that’s her safe: now I think I’ll do the RIDDOR report and get

it out of the way. So, I get my tablet back out and take another look at section 8 of the GIUSP. There’s a link right there for the form I need to complete. So, I follow the link to the RIDDOR form. I fill in the form and submit it, happy that the poor workmanship of the fitter will be properly investigated.

While I don’t wish ill on any other engineer – after all, mistakes happen and I don’t believe anyone would do such a thing purposely – this type of incident

must be reported to the relevant authority. If this doesn’t happen, the installer may not know that what they did could have had fatal consequences. Hopefully, they’ll think twice about cutting corners again.

As I wish my customer well, genuinely hoping that she is going to be OK, I feel good about myself, secure in the knowledge that today, I may just have saved a life. As I leave, the sun starts to shine. Is it my imagination or are those gnomes smiling? ■

Unsafe Situations Procedure: what’s new?

Gas Safe Register’s recent Open Channel live discussion was all about the updates to the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure. The procedure, which was revised in January 2021, has evolved based on feedback from gas engineers themselves, as well as the wider industry, said Dave Bendle, chair of the Unsafe Situations Committee.

The document’s aim is to create a robust way for gas engineers to make a risk assessment on their particular situation. It has evolved as the situations that gas engineers and Gas Safe Register inspectors find have changed over time, and the revised procedure brings further clarity on key areas. These include RIDDOR reporting, the tables that provide examples of the situations that engineers might find, an updated flowchart to help gas engineers choose the correct classification, and information about how to report

unsafe workmanship that is not reportable under RIDDOR. The Open Channel panel explained that the update helps to clarify the requirements of what and how to report under RIDDOR. They said that considering the potential outcome of the installation or appliance in front of them should help to guide gas engineers as to whether they should report under RIDDOR or whether they should report unsafe workmanship to Gas Safe Register to be investigated and dealt with.

Rob Denman, Gas Safe Register’s head of Technical, said: “To report unsafe gas work to Gas Safe Register, you can now log into your online account and notify this, and Gas Safe Register will follow up.”

There’s a new section that deals with reporting the theft of gas, providing information on who to inform, even if the situation is not unsafe.

The updates to the procedure have been shaped by the experiences of working gas engineers and from organisations in the industry, including Gas Safe Register. Rob Denman highlighted that some of the updates have come as the direct result of calls that registered engineers have made to the Register’s Technical Helpline, and from information gathered through inspections, investigations and complaints, and from RIDDOR. IGEM’s Ian McCluskey said: “IGEM wanted to draw out clarity on RIDDOR and on what is required of a visual inspection.”

The updates will have an impact on training and assessment too. Trevor Smallpeice, representing the Standards Consultation Forum, said it’s essential that training and ACS reflect what’s in the procedure. This highlights the importance of the panel that puts together the updated procedure

receiving information from as wide a range of industry organisations and engineers as possible.

You can download the updated Unsafe Situations Procedure from IGEM and from your Gas Safe Register online account. A new app will be available soon too.

You can see this discussion and previous Open Channel live events by joining the Open Channel from Gas Safe Register group on Facebook.

The Open Channel Panel on Unsafe Situations was: Scott Darroch, Head of Strategic Communications & Engagement, Gas Safe Register Rob Denman, Head of Technical, Gas Safe Register Ian McCluskey, Head of Technical and Policy, IGEM Dave Bendle, Chair, Unsafe Situations Committee Trevor Smallpeice, Standards Consultation Forum www.gassaferegister.co.uk 27

Tested and approved HHIC is continuing its work on a voluntary industry spare part certification scheme for boiler components under the Benchmark brand, focused on ‘safety-critical’ boiler components.

L

ast year we wrote in this magazine about an industry scheme being developed around gas appliance spare part safety. The article explained the importance of making informed choices about the spare parts you source and install to repair and maintain gas appliances, and help you discharge your legal duties.

Before we say more on the scheme, it is worth recapping on a very important point. The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 as amended states: “No person shall carry out any work in relation to a gas appliance which bears an indication that it conforms to a type approved by any person as complying with safety standards in such a manner that the appliance ceases to comply with those standards.”

This means that modifications to gas appliances that risk altering their technical characteristics and undermine validated safety certifications potentially place you in legal jeopardy.

There needs to be greater clarity about which parts have been physically proven to operate safely inside a given gas appliance. And it might surprise you to know that this is not always the case today – and it’s not only limited purely to ‘illegal’ parts, ie, those that are copies or counterfeits.

When it comes to replacing a part, the options may seem the same, or very similar: but they may not be underpinned by robust manufacturer testing.

The facts are that the extensive product research, development and testing that gas appliance manufacturers carry out when

28 April 2021

they create a new product and bring it to market provide reassurance for those installing the final gas appliance that each component part will perform as it is intended to.

When an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) spare part is used, if repair or maintenance is required, checks and balances are in place to ensure that a correctly installed spare of this type will restore the appliance to full, safe working order.

members have provided sobering examples about the differences in performance of part variants seemingly for the same application.

Starting with basic visual indicators, and compared with the manufacturer’s genuine part, problems range from uninsulated electrical connections and missing earth connections, to inadequate fixings for combustion fans.

When performance is tested, then parameters such as

“HHIC manufacturing members have provided sobering examples about the differences in performance of part variants seemingly for the same application.”

Choosing a spare part Does choice of spare part really matter? The simple answer is yes.

Technical Bulletin 1161 states that registered businesses should only use manufacturer-approved replacement parts. Using unapproved parts could result in the part appearing to function correctly but it might be dangerous in practice because the safety and performance of the appliance cannot necessarily be ensured if the manufacturer’s recommended parts are not used.

Several HHIC manufacturing

temperature and electrical surge can greatly exceed those of the OEM design, and so raise safety concerns.

What is the solution?

Where does this leave you in buying spare parts that will ensure your customers are safe?

Opting only for genuine manufacturer parts, in line with TB 116, is the easiest way.

But HHIC does feel that a responsible, industry-led labelling system would provide greater clarity about alternative options and what they offer. We already

have the legally required CE mark for gas appliances and many of their component parts, even when sold as spares, which is a great starting point.

We think we could build on the principles of this kind of mark.

A recognisable mark, such as Benchmark, could help you stay within the law and keep your customers safe, as well as helping market transparency.

Spare parts carrying this mark would be proven to have met defined industry test criteria, designed to help ensure that they perform safely within the appliances with which the part manufacturer advises they are compatible.

HHIC has already carried out a thorough review of the legislative requirements relating to the sale of gas appliance spare parts and we are now beginning to finalise a programme of work to underpin a voluntary industry spare part certification scheme. This is aimed to be an extension of the Benchmark brand, initially focused on ‘safety-critical’ boiler components.

We are mapping various safety-critical boiler components to the appliance test standards – EN 15502-1(2) and EN 155022-1(3) – to inform an appropriate and bespoke test regime, all with validated appliance safety in mind.

This will draw from the boiler test standards, but, via an HHIC

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | SPARE PARTS

Intentions and objectives of HHIC Benchmark spares working group: • For consumers to be safe • For all manufacturers of either genuine or alternative parts to agree on part classification and definitions • For manufacturers to understand their obligations when bringing a spare to market • For a level playing field between OEMs and alternative part manufacturers when bringing a spare to market • For registered businesses and consumers to understand their options with regard to spare parts • For consumers not to be misled • To help registered gas engineers discharge their legal duties.

1 Technical Bulletin 116: Always use the appliance manufacturer’s specified spare parts when replacing gas controls 2 BS EN 15502-1:2012+A1:2015: Gas-fired heating boilers; General requirements and tests 3 BS EN 15502-2-1:2012+A1:2016: Gas fired central heating boilers; Specific standard for type C appliances and type B2, B3 and B5 appliances of a nominal heat input not exceeding 1000 kW

governance panel formed of gas product safety experts, select only the relevant tests and clauses, so as to keep the exercise proportionate.

For example, for a single

speed 230v boiler combustion fan, testing will focus on aspects such as corrosion resistance, electrical safety, verifying safe combustion with all permissible appliance flue lengths/types, and

volunteering their parts for certification, and on the authorised bodies that undertake the testing of appliances and components in combination, for the purposes of the scheme. ■

overload testing (gas/electrical supply variations).

In parallel, we are constructing the scheme requirements, which will place obligations on component manufacturers

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Benchmark Checklist apps now live You can now fill out boiler commissioning details via an app, as well as find the appliance’s servicing records and history, as Benchmark goes digital.

T

he Benchmark Checklist is now digitised, with new apps that encourage a ‘whole-life’ approach to boiler care. The apps offer data storage and retrieval capability that can be accessed by both gas engineers and homeowners.

Separate apps for gas engineers and homeowners act as online information repositories,

Billy Wilgar, deputy chair of the Benchmark Steering Group, says: “Benchmark has always been more than just a commissioning tool, but its digitisation enables both heating engineers and homeowners to access vital information about their boilers, plan service intervals and take a whole-life approach to boiler care.

We believe this digitisation of

“The new apps will ensure that there is no more looking for bits of paper and no more figuring out what work has been done previously on a boiler.” providing details about the boiler installation, and its servicing history during the appliance’s lifetime. The apps will make it easier for gas engineers to register boilers after they’ve been installed, as well as accessing vital information about servicing and maintenance history before starting work.

The consumer app helps to make sure that regular service intervals are planned in, ultimately ensuring that boilers remain within warranty and that heating systems are performing at their most energy efficient levels.

It’s a kind of boiler passport for consumers to have the full installation and service history on their heating system all in one place.

Benchmark can play a major role in improving standards and the quality of service that heating engineers offer to homeowners.

“The trade version of the app allows engineers to fill out the Benchmark Checklist digitally on their phone or tablet at the time of installation, with all information being immediately available to homeowners via their own app.”

A major benefit of the consumer version of the app will be its impact on servicing.

“One of the key issues for homeowners has been the servicing paper trail, which is vital in proving that regular servicing has been undertaken and that the boiler remains within warranty,” says Billy.

“The new apps will ensure that there is no more looking for bits of paper, and no more figuring out what work has been done previously on

a boiler. All the information that engineers and homeowners need will be easily accessible in one place.”

In addition, notifications will alert homeowners when it is time to get their boiler serviced, pointing them in the direction of the engineer who installed their heating system.

Billy continues: “The apps will help strengthen the relationship between the homeowner and the heating engineer, generating trust and repeat servicing business for the engineer – ultimately ensuring that heating systems

are performing at their most energy efficient levels.”

As part of the Benchmark app launch, engineers are being encouraged to ‘Make their Mark’, by registering their installations through the app, to demonstrate their work on each and every install and highlight a job well done. It is an opportunity for good and competent engineers to showcase great installations, to stand out and help raise the profile of the heating industry. ■ • You can find out more and download the free apps at: www.benchmark.org.uk

Recent research by the Benchmark Steering Group found that more than 3 million households have never had their boiler serviced, and that the boilers in more than 50 per cent of homes are out of warranty, which makes it even more important that homeowners know about and understand the importance of annual servicing.

The checklist has been an effective means of demonstrating compliance with Building Regulations for boiler installation, commissioning and servicing since its inception in 1999.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 31

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | BOILERS

All for one and one for all A heating system is the sum of its parts, with flues and controls equally as important as the boiler itself. This is why gas engineers should ensure that all these fundamental components are sourced from the same manufacturer, says Sean Keleher, national technical manager at Navien.

B

oiler technology is constantly evolving, with new components continously developed to further enhance energy efficiency, while aiding installation, commissioning and servicing. However, there’s more to modern heating systems than just the boiler: it’s important for engineers to consider all the other key components, including the flues and controls.

Boilers can be fitted in a wide range of applications but this is only really beneficial if there are also suitable flueing options. As an essential part of any domestic heating system, both in terms of safety and efficiency, gas engineers should consider what flue options are available.

The design and diameter of the flue determines its maximum allowable length. Engineers will already be familiar with the Ø60/100 plastic concentric flue system; this is well known for being fitted on gas boilers but it can be used on oil units as well.

The flues can be installed either horizontally (through the wall) or vertically (through the roof).

However, the distance by which they can be extended varies depending on the manufacturer, due to the total flue lengths being determined by the ability of the boiler. Some flues will only extend to around 6-8m, while other manufacturers can offer lengths up to 21m.

Boilers should be fitted alongside the latest heating controls, which can further enhance efficiency. Consumers have become increasingly tech-savvy and look to embrace the most up-to-date energysaving products, which has led to the growth in smart control technology.

Although the boiler will have some integrated controls, advances in technology – as well as the introduction of Boiler Plus legislation – have led to many companies supplying separate devices that can be added into a heating system straight out of the box. As with flues, the features and benefits of controls vary, depending on the manufacturer.

Talk to each other If your customer is keen on a third-party device, you can recommend the boiler manufacturer’s own controls.

Here, both the controller and boiler will be designed to communicate with each other (and indeed, the rest of the system) using the same digital programming language; this is essential in terms of ensuring accuracy, reliability and efficiency between all components within the heating system. It is certainly the case when a system utilises sophisticated, manufacturerspecific protocols, as third-party products would not be compatible.

Manufacturers’ own control

units can provide a wealth of advanced and energy-saving functions. Take weather compensation, for example: this aids efficiency by providing a supplementary line of external system data, resulting in more accurate heating adjustments.

If it’s a hot, sunny day, the boiler will adjust the system flow temperature according to external conditions, in turn reducing energy consumption and costs.

One of the most appealing aspects of smart controls is their compatibility with smartphone technology, usually in the form of an app. This provides users with remote access to their heating and hot water system, allowing them to program or turn it on or off at the touch of a button. They can receive any notifications or error messages, as well as change the heating and hot water settings if required. Remote functionality also enables a log-in to be shared among a household or family, so that friends or relatives can check a boiler’s performance – something which is not necessarily possible through third-party control systems.

Smartphone compatibility features geofencing, where the user’s location dictates how the heating system operates, with the boiler turning on (or off) depending how near an occupant is to their property. This can be set up across multiple handsets.

Of course, no matter what boiler, flues and controls make up a heating system, gas engineers should always explain thoroughly how everything works. Not only will this ensure that users understand all the features, but it will help prevent any misuse, as well as identify the most effective and efficient settings to use.

By using all the core system components from the same manufacturer, gas engineers only need rely on one main avenue for all their training, technical support and aftersales requirements, rather than having to manage multiple contacts. They can also attend to all their training needs in one place, reducing time spent away from the tools. ■ navienuk.com

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | LOW CARBON

Policy update: we’re still waiting Martyn Bridges, director of Technical Communication and Product Management at Worcester Bosch, digests the flurry of policy updates on the UK’s road to net zero and previews what’s still to come.

T

he past year has been a changeable time for the heating industry, and the next 12 months promises to be no different. I’ve never known a time in which so many proposals, incentives, and policy changes, especially with Brexit, are coming to a head simultaneously.

This makes it important to reflect on recent developments more generally to get a wider sense of the state of play, from upcoming announcements, the Green Homes Grant, and Scotland seeming to favour electric on the road to net zero.

Don’t skip, read This period is proving to be among the busiest the heating industry has ever seen, with many dubbing it the Green Industrial Revolution.

The high number of proposals, policy changes, and incentives is endemic of the UK’s devolved governments in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. While all have the same goal of a net zero-carbon economy, each country is approaching it in a different way and to different timescales, with England aiming for net zero 2050 and Scotland for net zero 2045.

Keeping up to date with the range of proposals and documents is a time-consuming but very necessary task. Skip

34 April 2021

over these documents at your peril, or you might risk missing crucial pieces of information that might disadvantage the consumer, heating engineer, or your business.

What we are eagerly awaiting more than anything is the Heat in Buildings Strategy.

This important document will tell us the immediate actions that the government will take towards reducing emissions from buildings, including existing homes. We might see a roadmap of how the government plans to start moving the country towards a lower, eventually zero-carbon economy, with hydrogen and heat-pump solutions expected to play a big part of this.

The Hydrogen Strategy is set for release too, which could reveal a timeline for when we might expect a switch to hydrogen-ready boilers.

While the strategy was delayed slightly from its original Q1 timing, the government has already made its support for hydrogen clear, with the Ten-Point Plan pledging £500 million to create new trial sites.

The Green Homes Grant In among these policy changes and drafts, we have also seen the Green Homes Grant. The scheme has met with a flurry of criticism, with many calling for it to be

scrapped. While consumers struggle to get vouchers for the scheme, workers struggle to get paid for their work, and scheme administrators receive harsh criticism as a result. Ensuring against fraudulent claims is a long process, making the experience of the scheme incredibly drawn out – especially for the installer, who must front the cost of the equipment and wait to be paid by the scheme.

It has now been confirmed that the scheme’s unused funding will not be rolled over into the next financial year, having used only £71 million of its £1.5 billion budget allocation.

Despite 70,000 applications to the scheme, at the beginning of March 2021 it had seen installations of just 155 air source heat pumps, one ground source heat pump, 133 solar thermal installations, and just 10 smart controls – an embarrassing result.

There are many opinions on the best place for a heat-pump: is it new-build and large renovation projects or can they go into existing homes? On the face of it, the new-build route is easier

because the whole house and heating system can be designed from the start with the heat-pump requirements in mind. This doesn’t preclude them from existing homes – but the installation disruption is quite a barrier.

Electric for Scotland Scotland’s New Build Heat Standard brought forward a range of proposals, the most ambitious being zero emissions from heating and hot water systems in new-build properties from as soon as 2024.

As it stands, every new home in Scotland from 2024 would have no trace of fossil-fuel appliances, not even hydrogen (if it was available), because these all give out at least some emissions.

So for new-build, Scotland is seemingly opting for electric only.

This is not so surprising when we recall the country’s legal commitment to a 75 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030; radical action is necessary.

In summary, it is a busy time for policy, with a lot of activity across the UK. With more announcements on the horizon, ambitious plans afoot, and lessons to be learned, as we await future policies and developments, the journey to net zero will be interesting, if nothing else. ■

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Legislative, Normative & Informative The Gas Safe Register Legislation & Standards Document List Date issued: 1 April 2021 Introduction This document defines all documents recognised by Gas Safe Register as being Legislative, Normative (gas standards) and Informative reference documents.

Some documents may only be available as hard copy documents, but the majority are available to download, either via Gas Safe Register’s engineer website, or from the organisation or body promoting the document. In some cases, the document is only available for purchase from the organisation or a recognised supplier.

Hierarchy of legislation and standards In this document list, the hierarchy of documents within the following tables is defined in order of significance.

Detailed first are Statutory Acts, or regulations that are legally enforceable. These are followed by a recognised list of documents known as ‘Second Tier’ documents. This series of documents provides practical guidance on ways to comply with the functional requirements of Regulations. This guidance is not law, but provides information that, if followed correctly, will ensure that legal obligations have been met.

Where someone chooses to depart from this guidance, they will need to ensure that the method chosen provides equivalent or better standards of safety than the relevant published guidance.

The guidance provided within appropriate second-tier documents will be used to assess compliance.

The next tier of documents is gas industry standards that are aimed specifically at the installation, commissioning or maintenance of gas equipment (pipework, appliances, etc). These are known as Normative Documents and are referred to as Gas Industry Standards. These documents, in conjunction with any available manufacturer’s instructions, will be used by Gas Safe Register to assess compliance.

Finally, the remaining listings provide details of links to other available information, which is

considered useful to help registered businesses comply with their obligations and assist them in carrying out their day-to-day activities. These are referred to as Informative Documents.

1. Hierarchy of documents Legislation In this section, the listed documents are those brought to the Statute Book by an Act of Parliament and are referenced as Statutory Instruments (SI) or equivalent. These are the law in the respective countries as stated and must be followed. The SI Reference number (or equivalent) is preceded by the year of it being added to the Statute Book, ie, the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 has an SI Number of 1998:2451.

Regulations are in general written in a format that provides high-level requirements.

Documents supporting legislation These documents provide practical guidance on ways to comply with the functional requirements of the Regulations. For the Building Regulations, these are outlined in a series of Approved Documents (AD) published by the appropriate government department responsible for the Regulations.

The ADs that currently apply to gas work are: • A Structure • B Fire safety • F Ventilation • G3 Hot water storage • J Heat producing appliances • L Conservation of fuel and power • M Access to and use of buildings • P Electrical safety in dwellings.

Each document contains general guidance on the performance expected of materials and building work in order to comply with each of the requirements of the Building Regulations; and practical examples and solutions on how to achieve compliance for some of the more common building situations.

2. Gas Industry Standards In this section are all the Gas Industry Standards published by the three current Standard Setting Bodies, which are: • British and European Standards (BSI) • Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) • Liquid Gas UK (formerly known as UKLPG) One standard is published by the National Caravan Council (NCC).

3. Documents under review If it is known that the three-month validity period coincides with a period of time in which a standard being revised is out for public comment, the final date for comment will be included.

Gas Safe Register will use best endeavours to keep the documents under review as up to date as possible, but the Register is NOT responsible for reviewing, revising or updating industry standards. Where a registered business or industry stakeholder has an enquiry about revisions to guidance documents, this should be directed to the relevant Standard Setting Body.

Comments on draft standards can be submitted to: • British and European Standards (BSI) https:// standardsdevelopment. bsigroup.com (registration required) • Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) www.igem. org.uk/technical-services/ comment-on-draft-standards/

4. Links to online documents When viewing this document online, hyperlinks are active, so that you can open the document and read it or save it for later use.

However, all saved documents will be considered as uncontrolled versions and you should check that you are referencing the current version.

Man and Guernsey, in the first instance, it will assess against the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Where these are not available or relevant, it will inspect against the criteria as specified within legislative documents and relevant gas industry standards.

However, it is recognised that, due to the differences of individual legislation used in different geographical areas, there will be some differences in application.

While conducting inspections, due regard will be taken of the requirements of all appropriate guidance.

6. General This Gas Safe Register Document will be updated and republished on or about the following dates each year: • 1 January • 1 April • 1 July • 1 October.

If you identify an error in this document or you are aware of reference documents that may be useful that you think should be added to future editions, please email: technical@

gassaferegister.co.uk BSI, IGEM and Liquid Gas UK develop and publish guidance with the help of industry in the form of committees. Gas Safe Register does not have any responsibility for the development and publication of this type of guidance document.

Where registered businesses and stakeholders have questions regarding these guidance documents, they should be directed to the relevant Standard Setting Body.

5. Inspections undertaken

by Gas Safe Register When Gas Safe Register inspects work undertaken by registered gas businesses in Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the Isle of

> www.gassaferegister.co.uk 37

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | KNOWLEDGE BANK

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SECTION 7:

LEGISLATION Health & Safety Legislation Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (GB) The Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (GB) The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 (GB) Health & Safety at Work (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 Health & Safety at Work etc Act 1974 (of Parliament) (As applied to Isle of Man) The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2003 (As applied to Isle of Man) The Health & Safety at Work (General) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 1987 As Amended – Version May 2016 Gas Safety Legislation The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 (England, Scotland & Wales) The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004 Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1994 as amended & applied by the Gas Safety (Application) Order 1996 (As applied to Isle of Man) The Health & Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 2006 As Amended Version – May 2016 The Gas Appliances (Safety) Regulations 1995 (As applied in the United Kingdom) The General Product Safety Regulations 2005 The Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996 (As applied in Great Britain) The Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1997 (As applied in Northern Ireland) Gas Safety (Rights of Entry) Regulations 1996 as applied to Great Britain Schedule 5 (Powers of Entry, etc) of The Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 Gas Safety (Rights of Entry) Regulations 1983 as applied by the Gas Safety (Application) Order 1996 (Isle of Man) Part 7 of The Health & Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 2006 As Amended Version May 2016 Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences (RIDDOR) The Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 2013 (RIDDOR) (GB) Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1999 (RIDDOR) (Isle of Man)

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The Health & Safety at Work (General) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 1987 (includes RIDDOR-type reporting) Building Legislation Building Regulations (England and Wales) 2010 Building and Buildings, England & Wales, The Building Regulations & C (Amendment) Regulations 2015 Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations 2004 Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2010 Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2011 Building (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Scotland) Regulations 2013 Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 The Building (Guernsey) Regulations 2012 Building Bylaws (Jersey) 2007 Building Regulations 2014 Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 (Great Britain) The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007 The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2003 (As applied to Isle of Man) Building Control (Approved Documents) Order 2014 (As applied to Isle of Man) Other Legislation The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 The Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) (GB) Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) (GB) The Pressure Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 The Pressure Equipment (Amendment) Regulations 2015 (UK) The Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (GB) Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2002 (GB) Control of Asbestos at Work (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2003 The Control of Asbestos Regulations (GB) 2012 The Control of Asbestos Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 Managing asbestos (Isle of Man) HSE Guernsey – Management of Exposure to Asbestos in Workplace Buildings and Structures – ACOP HSE Guernsey – Control of Asbestos – ACOP 2017 The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 (GB) Electricity At Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1991

Note 1: Further information on ordinances in Guernsey at: www.gov.gg/hseguidance Note 2: Further information on legislation in the Isle of Man at: www.gov.im/about-the-government/ departments/environment-foodand-agriculture/environment-safetyand-health-directorate/healthand-safety-at-work-inspectorate/ legislation/ SECTION 8:

DOCUMENTS SUPPORTING LEGISLATION Key Approved Documents to the Building Regulations (England) Approved Document 7: Materials and workmanship B: Fire Safety – Volume 1: Dwelling houses B: Fire Safety – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwelling houses F: Ventilation G: Sanitation, hot water safety & water efficiency (2016 edition) J: Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L1A: Conservation of fuel & power (New dwellings) L1B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing dwellings) L2A: Conservation of fuel & power (New buildings other than dwellings) L2B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing buildings other than dwellings) Second tier documents to the Building Regulations – England Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide 2013 edition incorporating 2018 amendments – England Non-Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide 2013 edition – England Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide Guide to the Condensing Boiler Installation Assessment Procedure for Dwellings Code for Sustainable Homes & Technical Guide December 2014 Building Energy Performance Assessment Key approved documents to the Building Regulations (Wales) B: Fire Safety – Volume 1: Dwelling houses B: Fire Safety – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwelling houses F: Ventilation G: Sanitation, hot water safety & water efficiency (2016 edition) J: Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L1A: Conservation of fuel & power (New dwellings) L1B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing dwellings)

L2A: Conservation of fuel & power (New buildings other than dwellings) L2B: Conservation of fuel & power (Existing buildings other than dwellings) Second tier documents to the Building Regulations – Wales Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide Non-Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide Guide to the Condensing Boiler Installation Assessment Procedure for Dwellings Code for Sustainable Homes & Technical Guide December 2014 Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations (Domestic) Scottish Technical Handbook (Domestic) Section 2 – Domestic Fire Section 3 – Domestic Environment Section 6 – Domestic Energy Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations (Non-domestic) Scottish Technical Handbook (Non-Domestic) Section 2 – Non-Domestic Fire Section 3 – Non-Domestic Environment Section 6 – Non-Domestic Energy Second tier documents to the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations Scottish Government Guide to the Condensing Boiler Installation Assessment Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Standards (Regulations) Northern Ireland DFP Technical Booklet C: 2012 – Site preparation & resistance to moisture DFP Technical Booklet E: 2012 – Fire Safety DFP Technical Booklet C: 2012 – Site preparation & resistance to moisture DFP Technical Booklet E: 2012 – Fire Safety DFP Technical Booklet F1: 2012 – Conservation of fuel & power in dwellings DFP Technical Booklet F2: 2012 – Conservation of fuel & power in buildings other than dwellings DFP Technical Booklet K: 2012 – Ventilation

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DFP Technical Booklet L: 2012 – Combustion appliances & fuel storage systems DFP Technical Booklet P: 2012 – Sanitary appliances, unvented hot water storage systems and reducing the risk of scalding Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Regulations Isle of Man (IoM) B – Fire Safety – Fire safety (2000 Edition consolidated with 2000 & 2002 amendments) F – Ventilation (Second impression 1995) J – Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems (2002 Edition) L1 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Dwellings (2002 Edition) L2 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Buildings other than Dwellings (2002 Edition) Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Bylaws (Guernsey) – Channel Islands B – Fire Safety – Volume 1: Dwelling houses B – Fire Safety – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwelling houses F – Ventilation J – Heat producing appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L1 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Dwellings L2 – Conservation of Fuel & Power – Buildings other than Dwellings Building Energy Performance Assessment Key Approved Documents to the Building Bylaws (Jersey) – Channel Islands Part 3A – Energy Performance of Dwellings Part 2 – Fire Safety Part 3 – Combustion appliances and Fuel Storage Systems Part 5 – Ventilation Part 11 – Conservation of Fuel and Power HSE Publications and other Approved Codes of Practice (Great Britain) L21 – Management of Health & Safety at Work Withdrawn.

See HSG65 below L24 – Workplace health, safety & welfare (ACoP & Guidance) 2nd Edition L25 – Personal Protective Equipment at Work L56 – Safety in the Installation & use of Gas Systems & Appliances – Approved Code of Practice L80 – A guide to the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996

40 April 2021

L108 – Controlling noise at work – The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 – Guidance on Regulations L122 – Safety of pressure systems – Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 – Approved Code of Practice (Second Edition) L138 – Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres. Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002.

Approved Code of Practice & Guidance L143 – Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 (ACoP) – The management of asbestos in non-domestic premises, and Work with materials containing asbestos (Second Edition) Incorporating previous L127 L144 – Managing health & safety in construction – Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2015 Approved Code of Practice HSG47 – Avoiding danger from underground services – Third edition 2014 HSG48 – Reducing error & influencing behaviour HSG65 – Managing for Health & Safety Management – Third Edition – 2013 HSG85 – Electricity at Work – Safe working practices – Third Edition 2013 HSG97 – A step by step guide to Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) assessment (see also COSHH Essential Guidance publications) HSG137 – Health Risk Management – A practical guide for managers in small & medium-sized enterprises HSG176 – The storage of flammable liquids in tanks HSG210 – Asbestos Essentials – A task manual for building, maintenance & allied trades on non-licensed asbestos work (Free task sheets) HSG213 – Introduction to Asbestos Essentials HSG250 – Guidance on permit-towork systems: A guide for the petroleum, chemical & allied industries HSG253 – The safe isolation of plant and equipment (Second edition) HSG261 – Health & safety in motor vehicle repair and associated industries EH40 – Occupational Exposure Limits (2020) INDG163 (rev4) – Risk assessment (A brief guide to controlling risks in the workplace) INDG223 (rev5) – Managing asbestos in buildings (A brief guide) INDG231 (rev1) – Electrical safety and you (A brief guide) INDG258 (rev1) – Confined spaces (A brief guide to working safely)

INDG428 (08/09) – Inspecting and maintaining or replacing buried metallic pipework carrying LPG vapour INDG223 – Manage buildings?

You must manage asbestos INDG370 (rev1) – Controlling Fire and explosion risks in the workplace – A brief guide to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regs INDG453 (rev1) – Reporting accidents and incidents at work.

A brief guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) HSE aO – Advice on non-licensed work with Asbestos. Introduction to ‘Asbestos essentials’ task sheets Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Essentials guidance publications Building Bulletin 101 – Ventilation of school buildings (Called up in IGEM/ UP/11 Edition 2) LAQM.TG(09) Local Air Quality Management – Technical Guidance CAIS10 (Revision 2) – Ventilation of kitchens in catering establishments (7.12) CAIS23 (Revision 2) – Gas safety in catering and hospitality (July 2013 version aimed at those operating catering and hospitality businesses) Note 3: Further asbestos-related guidance is at: www.hse.gov.uk/ asbestos/essentials/index.htm Note 4: Further Health and Safety Guidance (HSG) publications is at: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/ index-hsg-ref.htm HSENI Publications and other Approved Codes of Practice (Northern Ireland) A guide to the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases & Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 L56 Safety in the installation and use of gas systems and appliances – GB ACOP approved for use in NI Memorandum of guidance on the Electricity at Work Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1991 Note 5: Further information on Northern Ireland Approved Codes of Practice and guidance notes at: www.hseni.gov.uk/publications HSE Publications and other Approved Codes of Practice (Guernsey) Safety in the Installation & Use of Gas Systems & Appliances. The Health & Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance 2006 The Organisation & Management of Health & Safety in Construction (Guernsey) Reporting an Injury, Disease or Dangerous Occurrence (Guernsey)

Note 6: Further information on Approved Codes of Practice and guidance notes for gas safety and other important issues at: www.gov. gg/hseguidance SECTION 9:

GAS INDUSTRY STANDARDS

British & European Standards BS 4163: 2014 Health and safety for design and technology in schools and similar establishments – Code of practice BS 5440-1: 2008 Flueing & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) Specification for installation of gas appliances to chimneys & for maintenance of chimneys BS 5440-2: 2009 Installation & maintenance of flues & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases). Specification for installation & maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances BS 5546: 2010 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired water-heating appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net BS 5482-1: 2005 Code of practice for domestic butane & propane-gas burning – Domestic butane and propane gas-burning installations.

Installations at permanent dwellings, residential park homes & commercial premises, with installation pipework sizes not exceeding DN25 for steel & DN28 for corrugated stainless steel or copper.

Withdrawn December 2020 BS 5482-2: 1977 Installation in caravans & non-permanent dwellings (Amd May 2001).

Withdrawn December 2020 PD 54823: 2016 Code of practice for domestic butane & propane gas-burning installations. Installations in boats, yachts & other vessels BS 5864: 2019 Installation & maintenance of gas-fired ducted air heaters of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (2nd & 3rd family gases).

Specification BS 5871-1: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & heating stoves (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-2: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Inset live fuel-effect gas fires of heat input not exceeding 15kW & fire/back boilers (2nd & 3rd family gases)

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BS 5871-3: 2005 Specification for

installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Decorative fuel-effect gas appliances of heat input not exceeding 20kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-4: 2007 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Independent gas-fired flueless fires, convector heaters & heating stoves of nominal heat input not exceeding 6kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6172: 2010 + A1 2017

Specification for installation, servicing and maintenance of domestic gas cooking appliances (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6173: 2020 Specification for installation of gas-fired catering appliances for use in all types of catering establishments (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6230: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired forced convection air heaters for commercial & industrial space heating (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6400-1: 2016 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation, maintenance and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h – Part 1 – Low pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-2: 2018 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Medium pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-3: 2007 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h – Low & medium pressure (3rd family gases) BS 6644: 2011 Specification for Installation of gas-fired hot water boilers of rated inputs between 70kW (net) & 1.8MW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Incorporating Corrigendum No. 1 BS 6798: 2014 Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of gas-fired boilers of rated input not exceeding 70kW net BS 6891: 2015 + A1 2019

Specification for the installation and maintenance of low-pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35mm (R1¼) on premises BS 6896: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired overhead radiant heaters for industrial & commercial heating (2nd & 3rd family gases)

BS 7624: 2004 Specification for

installation & maintenance of domestic direct gas-fired tumble dryers of up to 6kW heat input (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 7671: 2018 Requirements for electrical installations. Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Wiring Regulations (formally IEE Wiring Regulations) – Eighteenth edition BS 7967: 2015 Guide for the use of electronic portable combustion gas analysers for the measurement of carbon monoxide in dwellings and the combustion performance of domestic gas-fired appliances BS 7967-5: 2010 Carbon monoxide in dwellings & other premises & the combustion performance of gas-fired appliances – Guide for using electronic portable combustion gas analysers in non-domestic premises for the measurement of carbon monoxide & carbon dioxide levels & the determination of combustion performance BS 8313: 1997 Code of practice for accommodation of building services in ducts BS 8446: 2020 Specification for the installation & maintenance of open-flued, non-domestic gas-fired laundry appliances.

Revised guidance document BS 8660-1: 2011 Gas-fired micro-cogeneration appliances of rated thermal input not exceeding 70kW net Part 1: Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of Stirling engine micro-cogeneration appliances BS EN 721: 2019 Leisure accommodation vehicles – Safety ventilation requirements BS EN 751-1: 1997 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases & hot water. Anaerobic jointing compounds BS EN 751-2: 1997 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases & hot water. Non-hardening jointing compounds BS EN 751-3: 1997 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases & hot water. Unsintered PTFE tapes BS EN 1775: 2007 Gas supply pipework for buildings – Maximum operating pressure loss ≤5bar – Functional requirements BS EN 12327: 2012 Gas infrastructure – Pressure testing, commissioning and decommissioning procedures – Functional requirements BS EN 50292: 2013 Electrical apparatus for the detection of carbon monoxide in domestic premises – Guide on the selection, installation, use & maintenance BS EN 15001-1: 2009 Gas installation pipework with an

operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for design, materials, construction, inspection & testing BS EN 15001-2: 2008 Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for commissioning, operation & maintenance BS EN 1949: 2011 +A1 2013

Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles & accommodation purposes in other vehicles.

Under review BS EN ISO 10239: 2017 Small craft – Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems. Under review BS EN 13410: 2001 Gas-fired overhead radiant heaters – Ventilation requirements for non-domestic premises (Amd Jan 03) BS EN 1749: 2020 European scheme for the classification of gas appliances according to the method of evacuation of the products of combustion Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers Documents (IGEM) IGE/UP/1 Strength & tightness testing & purging of industrial & commercial gas installations (inc Amd published March 05).

Under review IGE/UP/1A Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of small low pressure industrial & commercial Natural gas installations (inc amendments published March 2005). Under review IGEM/UP/1B Tightness testing and direct purging of small Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Air, Natural Gas and Liquefied Petroleum Gas installations (with Amendments October 2012) IGEM/UP/1C Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of natural gas and LPG meter installations IGEM/UP/2 Installation pipework on industrial and commercial premises.

Under review IGEM/UP/3 Gas fuelled spark ignition and dual-fuel engines.

Due for review IGEM/UP/4 Commissioning of gas fired plant on industrial & commercial premises IGEM/UP/6 Application of compressors to Natural Gas fuel systems.

Revised guidance document IGE/UP/7 Gas installations in timber framed & light steel framed buildings (inc amendments published October 2008)

Note 7: IGE/UP/7 – Edition 2 is available free at: www.igem.org. uk/technical-services/technicalgas-standards/utilisation/ ige-up-7-edition-2-a-2008-gasinstallations-in-timber-framed-andlight-steel-framed-buildings/ IGE/UP/9 Application of Natural Gas and fuel oil systems to Gas turbines and supplementary and auxiliary fired burners. Under review IGEM/UP/10 - Edition 4 with amendments – March 2016

Installation of flued gas appliances in industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/11 Gas installations in educational establishments IGEM/UP/12 Application of burners and controls to gas fired process plant. Under review IGEM/UP/16 Design for Natural Gas installations on industrial and commercial premises with respect to hazardous area classification and preparation of risk assessments IGEM/UP/17 Shared chimney and flue systems for domestic gas appliances IGEM/UP/18 Gas installations for vehicle repair and bodyshops (Replaced British Gas Technical Publication IM/28: 1993) IGEM/UP/19 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments IGEM/GL/8 Reporting and investigation of gas related incidents.

Under review IGE/GL/9 Guidance for large gas consumers in dealing with Natural Gas supply emergencies.

Available free at: www.igem.org.uk/ technical-services/technical-gasstandards/legislation/igem-gl-9/ IGE/TD/4 Gas Services.

Revision expected IGEM/G/1 Defining the end of the Network, a meter installation and installation pipework. Under review IGEM/G/4 Definitions in the Gas Industry. Under review IGEM/G/5 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings. Under review IGEM/G/6 Gas supplies to mobile dwellings. Under review IGEM/G/7 Risk Assessment Techniques IGEM/G/10 Non-return valves IGE/GM/4 Flow metering practice for pressures between 38 & 100bar IGE/GM/5 Selection, installation & use of electronic gas meter volume conversion systems. Under review IGEM/GM/6 Non-domestic meter installations – Standard designs.

Under review IGEM/GM/7A Electrical connections for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/7B Hazardous area classification for gas metering equipment

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IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 1 Non-domestic meter installations. Flow rate exceeding 6m3/h-1 & inlet pressure not exceeding 38bar. Design IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 2 Non-domestic meter installations. Location, housings and compounds IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 3 Non-domestic meter installations. Installation and commissioning IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 4 Non-domestic meter installations. Operation and maintenance IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 5 Non-domestic meter installations. Notices and labels IGEM/IG/1 Standards of Training in Gas Work. Revised guidance document Note 8: available free at: www.igem. org.uk/technical-services/technicalgas-standards/industry-guidance/ igem-ig-1-standards-of-training-ingas-work/ IGEM/IG/1 Supplement 1

Standards of Training in Gas Work, Non-domestic training specification Note 9: IGEM/IG/1 is available free at: www.igem.org.uk/technicalservices/technical-gas-standards/ industry-guidance/igem-ig-1supplement-1-non-domestictraining-specification/ IGEM/IG/2 Engineer’s Guide to relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments Note 10: IGEM/IG/2 is available free at: www.igem.org.uk/technicalservices/technical-gas-standards/ industry-guidance/igem-ig-2guidance-for-gas-engineers/ IGEM/G/7 Risk assessment techniques IGEM/SR/25 Hazardous area classification of natural gas installations (with amendments July 2013). Under review IGEM/SR/29 Dealing with gas escapes Liquid Gas UK Codes of Practice (CoP) UKLPG – LPG Technical Fundamentals CoP 1 Part 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Design, installation & Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground CoP 1 Part 2 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Small bulk installations for domestic purposes.

Under review CoP 1 Part 3 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed installations – Examination & Inspection CoP 1 Part 4 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/Mounded LPG Storage Vessels.

Revised guidance document CoP 7 Storage of full & empty LPG cylinders & cartridges. Under review CoP 17 Purging LPG vessels & systems. Under review

42 April 2021

CoP 21 Guidelines for Safety Checks on LPG appliances in Caravans (Including Amendment Aug 2000) CoP 22 Design Installation and Testing of LPG Piping Systems CoP 24 Part 1 Use of LPG Cylinders – At residential & similar premises CoP 24 Part 3 Use of LPG for Commercial Catering Events, Street Food and Mobile Catering CoP 24 Part 5 Use of LPG Cylinders – Storage & use of LPG on construction sites CoP 24 Part 6 Use of Propane in cylinders at commercial & industrial premises CoP 25 LPG Central storage & distribution systems for multiple consumers (Including Amendment 1 2008) CoP 32 Liquid Gas UK CoP 32 LPG systems in Leisure Accommodation Vehicles and Road Vehicles with Habitation – Post Delivery Inspection, Commissioning and Maintenance.

New guidance document GN 2 A guide to servicing cabinet heaters

National Caravan Council (NCC) Codes of Practice (CoP) CoP 306 Motorhomes: Fixed LPG tanks for habitation purposes V2.0 SECTION 10:

OTHER INFORMATIVE DOCUMENTS AND USEFUL REFERENCES Liquid Gas UK Consumer Guidance Sheets (CGS) CGS O1 Mobile Bottled Gas Heaters and Condensation CGS 03 The Use of LPG Cylinders Indoors CGS 04 LPG Patio Heaters – Safe Use CGS 05 LPG Hose and Tubing for use with Vapour Offtake Cylinders CGS 20 Camping Safely CGS 22 Owning Your Own LPG Storage Vessel CGS 25 LPG Installation Record & Documentation CGS 28 Safe Use of Propane and Butane Cylinders and Cartridges CGS 37 Guidance for Private Ownership and Filling of LPG Cylinders CGS 39 Regulators – Safe Use Note 11: Liquid Gas UK Consumer Guidance Sheets (CGS) are available at: www.liquidgasuk.org/ domestic/consumer-guidancesheets Other Industry Procedures/ Documents DW/172 Standard for kitchen ventilation systems

IGEM/G/11 Formerly known as

The Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP) – (TB 001).

This can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in

All Technical Bulletins

For further information see TB 1000.

This can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in

All Gas Safe Register Safety Alerts can be viewed by logging

into your online account at: www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in

All Gas Safe Register Industry Standard Updates can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ sign-in Note 12: Gas Safe Registered businesses can find up-to-date manufacturers’ instructions/ information for a wide range of heating appliances, notably boilers and warm air heating appliances, on the HHIC’s website.

Further information at: https://installersfirst.co.uk

SECTION 11:

ACCESS TO INDUSTRY STANDARDS FROM GAS SAFE REGISTER The Industry Standard numbers highlighted below are those included in the list of current Industry Standards available on a subscription basis to the majority of Gas Safe registered business.

To subscribe, log into your online account at: www.gassaferegister. co.uk/sign-in and choose Standards Subscriptions. Choose and pay for a one or three-year subscription and then you will be able to access the normative documents.

BS 5440-1: 2008 Flueing & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) Specification for installation of gas appliances to chimneys & for maintenance of chimneys BS 5440-2: 2009 Installation & maintenance of flues & ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases). Specification for installation & maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances BS 5546: 2010 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired water-heating appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net PD 54823: 2016 Code of practice for domestic butane & propane gas-burning installations. Installations in boats, yachts & other vessels BS 5864: 2019 Installation & maintenance of gas-fired ducted air heaters of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (2nd & 3rd family gases).

Specification

BS 5871-1: 2005 Specification for

installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & heating stoves (1st, 2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-2: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel-effect gas appliances – Inset live fuel-effect gas fires of heat input not exceeding 15kW & fire/back boilers (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-3: 2005 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Decorative fuel-effect gas appliances of heat input not exceeding 20kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 5871-4: 2007 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers & decorative fuel effect gas appliances – Independent gas-fired flueless fires, convector heaters & heating stoves of nominal heat input not exceeding 6kW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6172: 2010 + A1 2017

Specification for installation, servicing and maintenance of domestic gas cooking appliances (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6173: 2020 Specification for installation of gas-fired catering appliances for use in all types of catering establishments (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6230: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired forced convection air heaters for commercial & industrial space heating (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 6400-1: 2016 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation, maintenance and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h – Part 1 – Low pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-2: 2006 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Medium pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-3: 2007 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation & removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h – Low & medium pressure (3rd family gases) BS 6644: 2011 Specification for Installation of gas-fired hot water boilers of rated inputs between 70kW (net) & 1.8MW (net) (2nd & 3rd family gases) – Incorporating Corrigendum No. 1 BS 6798: 2014 Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of gas-fired boilers of rated input not exceeding 70kW net

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | KNOWLEDGE BANK

BS 6891: 2015 + A1 2019

Specification for the installation and maintenance of low-pressure gas installation pipework of up to 35mm (R1¼) on premises BS 6896: 2011 Specification for installation & maintenance of gas-fired overhead radiant heaters for industrial & commercial heating (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 7624: 2004 Specification for installation & maintenance of domestic direct gas-fired tumble dryers of up to 6kW heat input (2nd & 3rd family gases) BS 7967: 2015 Guide for the use of electronic portable combustion gas analysers for the measurement of carbon monoxide in dwellings and the combustion performance of domestic gas-fired appliances BS 7967-5: 2010 Carbon monoxide in dwellings & other premises & the combustion performance of gas-fired appliances – Guide for using electronic portable combustion gas analysers in non-domestic premises for the measurement of carbon monoxide & carbon dioxide levels & the determination of combustion performance BS 8446: 2005 Specification for the installation & maintenance of open-flued, non-domestic gas-fired laundry appliances BS EN 721: 2019 Leisure accommodation vehicles – Safety ventilation requirements BS EN 12327: 2012 Gas infrastructure – Pressure testing, commissioning and decommissioning procedures – Functional requirements BS EN 15001-1: 2009 Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for design, materials, construction, inspection & testing BS EN 15001-2: 2008 Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5bar for industrial installations & greater than 5bar for industrial & non industrial installations – Detailed functional requirements for commissioning, operation & maintenance BS EN 1949: 2011 +A1 2013

Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles & accommodation purposes in other vehicles BS EN ISO 10239: 2017

Small craft – Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) systems BS EN 13410: 2001 Gas-fired overhead radiant heaters – Ventilation requirements for non-domestic premises (Amd Jan 03)

Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers Documents (IGEM) IGE/UP/1 Strength & tightness testing & purging of industrial & commercial gas installations (inc Amd published March 05) IGE/UP/1A Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of small low pressure industrial & commercial Natural gas installations (inc amendments published March 2005) IGEM/UP/1B Tightness testing and direct purging of small Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Air, Natural Gas and Liquefied Petroleum Gas installations (with Amendments October 2012) IGEM/UP/1C Strength testing, tightness testing & direct purging of natural gas and LPG meter installations IGEM/UP/2 Installation pipework on industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/3 Gas fuelled spark ignition and dual-fuel engines IGEM/UP/4 Commissioning of gas fired plant on industrial & commercial premises IGEM/UP/6 Application of compressors to Natural Gas fuel systems IGE/UP/7 Gas installations in timber framed & light steel framed buildings (inc amendments published October 2008). See Note 7 IGE/UP/9 Application of Natural Gas and fuel oil systems to Gas turbines and supplementary and auxiliary fired burners IGEM/UP/10 Installation of flued gas appliances in industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/11 Gas installations in educational establishments IGEM/UP/12 Application of burners and controls to gas fired process plant IGEM/UP/16 Design for Natural Gas installations on industrial and commercial premises with respect to hazardous area classification and preparation of risk assessments IGEM/UP/17 Shared chimney and flue systems for domestic gas appliances IGEM/UP/18 Gas installations for vehicle repair and bodyshops (Replaced British Gas Technical Publication IM/28: 1993) IGEM/UP/19 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments IGEM/GL/8 Reporting and investigation of gas related incidents IGE/GL/9 Guidance for large gas consumers in dealing with Natural Gas supply emergencies IGE/TD/4 Gas Services IGEM/G/1 Defining the end of the Network, a meter installation and installation pipework

IGEM/G/4 Definitions in the Gas

Industry

IGEM/G/5 Gas in multi-occupancy

buildings

IGEM/G/6 Gas supplies to mobile

dwellings

IGE/GM/4 Flow metering practice for pressures between 38 & 100bar IGE/GM/5 Selection, installation & use of electronic gas meter volume conversion systems IGEM/GM/6 Non-domestic meter installations – Standard designs IGEM/GM/7A Electrical connections for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/7B Hazardous area classification for gas metering equipment IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 1 Non-domestic meter installations. Flow rate exceeding 6m3/h & inlet pressure not exceeding 38bar Design IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 2 Non-domestic meter installations. Location, housings and compounds IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 3 Non-domestic meter installations. Installation and commissioning IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 4 Non-domestic meter installations. Operation and maintenance IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 5 Non-domestic meter installations. Notices and labels

CoP 25 LPG Central storage & distribution systems for multiple consumers (Including Amendment 1 2008) CoP 32 LPG systems in Leisure Accommodation Vehicles and Road Vehicles with Habitation – Post Delivery Inspection, Commissioning and Maintenance GN 2 A guide to servicing cabinet heaters n

Liquid Gas UK Codes of Practice (CoP) CoP 1 Part 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Design, installation & Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground CoP 1 Part 2 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Small bulk installations for domestic purposes CoP 1 Part 3 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed installations – Examination & Inspection CoP 1 Part 4 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/Mounded LPG Storage Vessels (Inc Amendment March 2013) CoP 7 Storage of full & empty LPG cylinders & cartridges CoP 17 Purging LPG vessels & systems CoP 21 Guidelines for Safety Checks on LPG appliances in Caravans (Including Amendment Aug 2000) CoP 22 Design Installation and Testing of LPG Piping Systems CoP 24 Part 1 Use of LPG Cylinders – At residential & similar premises CoP 24 Part 3 Use of LPG for Commercial Catering Events, Street Food and Mobile Catering CoP 24 Part 5 Use of LPG Cylinders – Storage & use of LPG on construction sites CoP 24 Part 6 Use of Propane in cylinders at commercial & industrial premises

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 43

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER PRESSURE

Mains boosting: what’s the truth?

Ken Vance, training manager at Salamander Pumps, sets out the rules on boosting mains water pressure – and debunks some of the common myths.

L

ow water pressure affects many homes across the country, which can pose a problem. In particular, poor water performance in a house can often prevent gas engineers from installing certain types of heating systems that need higher flow rates.

Anecdotally, we know that many have to turn down combi boiler installs because the flow into the home is too low to service one – and an unvented heating system requires even higher flow rates of at least 20 litres per minute to work.

However, boosting the incoming mains water supply can be fairly simple and could drastically improve flow. Since the Water Supply and Fittings Regulations were introduced in 1999, there has been a general misconception among the plumbing trade that the

regulations say you can’t fit a pump or booster directly to mains water. This is not the case.

In fact, the regulations state that pumped mains water must not exceed 12 litres per minute unless permission from the local water supplier is received before installation. Many households experience a flow much lower than this and, in these instances, they are permitted to boost their incoming mains using a pump, as long as the pumped water flow does not exceed the 12 litres per minute limit.

What if a home needs more than 12 litres per minute?

Some households, including those with unvented systems or larger properties with increased water demand, will need more than 12 litres per minute to maintain good water performance in their home.

In these cases, they can introduce a water storage solution, such as an accumulator tank, to provide the required flow rates for their preferred hot water system.

What solutions are available to increase mains water performance?

For homes where 12 litres per minute is adequate, inline pumps provide an easy and effective method of increasing water flow across the whole house. Pumps can be installed either after the stop tap or just before a combi boiler, to increase the water pressure and flow to up to 12 litres per minute.

Intelligent pumps monitor the amount of water flowing through: when the pump recognises that the incoming water flow is low, it boosts it up to 12 litres per minute. When it senses that the water flow is over 12 litres per

minute, it moves into in standby mode, meaning that the pumped water flow will never exceed the limit set out in the Water Regulations. For smaller homes and combi boilers, pumps can boost the mains water up to 10 litres per minute.

Where homes require a flow greater than 12 litres per minute, accumulator tanks store water at pressure, providing additional flow to the existing mains supply. n www.salamanderpumps.co. uk/mainsboost.php

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www.gassaferegister.co.uk 45

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS

Productnews Gastite app for easy CSST sizing Gastite has relaunched its sizing app, which it says will provide greater support to gas engineers using its corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST). Using the app, gas engineers can get help with sizing an installation on natural gas or LPG, with its easy-to-follow navigation.

There’s also access to the design installation guide for targeted installation advice, searchable FAQs, find-a-stockist, and sales advice plus technical support.

National sales manager Paul Molle says: “We wanted to take some of the key benefits that our CSST system offers, such as flexibility, ease of use and performance, and apply them to our new app.

“With this value-added app, we are offering installers a quick and easy way to get help with sizing an installation.”

The app is free to download from the App Store and Google Play.

Slimline hot water cylinders from Grant UK Five slimline hot water cylinders from 150 to 300 litres are now available from Grant UK. The new models join the MonoWave High Performance cylinder range, providing efficient hot water storage solutions when space is at a premium.

Designed to work with traditional heating appliances as well as renewable technologies, the MonoWave Slimline cylinders partner effectively with Grant’s oil boilers and air source heat pump. The slimline cylinders are stainless steel and combine durability with efficiency.

They are available in 150l, 170l, 200l, 250l and 300l to provide effective hot water storage even in the smallest

places. Each cylinder has a diameter of just 510mm and all feature a 3kW fitted immersion, have a single coil and are unvented, indirect models.

The tappings are labelled and colour-coded which helps make the installation more straightforward.

“We are pleased to offer slimline variants of our popular MonoWave High Performance cylinders,” says Kevin Ellis, renewables sales manager.

“An efficient cylinder can greatly improve the performance of the overall heating system, so these slimline models provide our customers with a solution even where space is restricted.” www.grantuk.com

Uponor UFH packs come with auto-balancing controls Uponor’s new underfloor heating (UFH) packs make it easy for heating engineers to source everything they need for a project from one place. Packs include smart controls made by the same manufacturer as the pre-insulated and plumbing solutions. This means the system can provide automatic balancing; a function not possible when the UFH and controls come from multiple suppliers and aren’t designed to communicate with each other, says the company.

The intelligent auto-balancing function continuously monitors temperatures inside the home and regulates each heating circuit individually. The UFH then adapts to suit every space and system, without requiring the complicated recalculations or adjustments of manual balancing. This results in a more even temperature and faster UFH system reaction times, as well as being up to 20 per cent more energy efficient than alternative systems.

The Smatrix Pulse smart control can be managed using voice apps.

The packs come with everything needed to fit UFH different project types, including screed, timber and low-profile applications. Each pack can be provided in one, two and three

46 April 2021

Esi’s 6 Series thermostat zone options covering 14-56m2.

Packs include a pipe, manifold, adaptors, controls, edge strips, bend support and clips.

Mark Dowdeswell, senior category manager, says: “We wanted to create a product that installers can rely on to quickly and efficiently provide everything they need to achieve a highquality installation, regardless of the project’s size or challenges.

“Our packs significantly streamline the purchasing process, and are particularly good for those last-minute projects where the installer needs the products as soon as possible.” www.uponor.co.uk/services/ contacts

Esi Controls has launched its 6 Series WiFi programmable room thermostat for homes and commercial premises.

The ErP Class 5 range of controls is fully OpenTherm compatible and provides control via the room thermostat, mobile phone or tablet.

It includes optimum start/stop, domestic hot water setpoint, hot water time and temperature control when working with a wireless cylinder thermostat, full programming options, a boost facility and holiday mode. It comes with a three-year warranty.

“This is the new ‘RollsRoyce’ of our range,” says UK sales director Tristan James. “It has all the latest features and benefits you could want and it looks good too – it really is an impressive addition to our range.” www.esicontrols.co.uk

Heat Pump & Solar Thermal Training Up to 70% funding

Limited spaces and time available to claim – Unvented, Energy Efficiency and Water Regulations included as part of offer if required.

Find out more www.ectatraining.co.uk/heatpump-solar-thermal-training/ or email hello@ectatraining.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

­

The Official Service Partner for AGA and also RANGEMASTER Out of Guarantee work are looking to add to its’ existing network of engineers and in particular, engineers qualified to work on Natural and LPG Gas Excellent Rates of Pay and quick & efficient payment, normally the end of the month in which the job is completed.

If you feel that you would like to be part of this successful and growing organisation, please send your details to aga@repairtechuk.co.uk and we will contact you to progress.

Please see our vacany at: https://registeredgasengineer.co.uk/jobs/

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Training & Assessment Specialists • Domestic gas & appliances • Commercial gas • Commercial catering • ACS re-assessments • New entrants to gas (GGFO) • Unvented hot water

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48 April 2021

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22/03/2021 10:40

LONDON AND SOUTH EAST

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• Parts and Service days – max 3 people • Both courses can also be booked 1 on 1 to suit you • Company discounts available

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Call 0808 275 1444 Courses we do: BTAAC offer a full range of Domestic and Commercial Gas training and re-assessments in a well-equipped training facility at very competitive prices. · All ACS Domestic Gas – core + appliances ·All ACS Commercial Gas including CMDDA1,BMP1,LPG · Unvented Hot Water & Water Regs · Essential Electrics & Heating Controls · Highly knowledgeable trainers with years of experience

ACS Re-Assessments - Initial - Managed learning program Electrical – 18th Edition - PAT – EV Charge point NICEIC Approved Assessment Centre Brand new designed centre ✔ Free onsite parking We have spaces available ✔ Great Facilities Free Tea, Coffee, HC, Biscuits ✔ Opening Deals

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WE BUY ANY BOILER AND HEATING PARTS For more information and to book your course contact us on:- Email: sarah.bygraves@bromleytraining.co.uk Telephone: 0208 315 5678 Bromley Training & Assessment Centre (BTAAC) Unit 4 Ashgrove Industrial Estate Ashgrove Road, Bromley Kent, BR1 4JW

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Chemicals Sentinel and Fernox Etc. Text information to Martin on 07821 517 954 Email: Webuyplumbingstock@live.co.uk

50 April 2021

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22/03/2021 10:40

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | COMPETITION

Competition Win a TPI DC710C2 kit One lucky winner will save time and money with TPI’s Smart Bluetooth Flue Gas Analyser & Manometer Kit.

WIN Your chance to win

I

t has been a tough year for everyone, including heating engineers. Even though they can continue to work in other people’s properties, they face new challenges. TPI understands this, which is where the DC710C2 Smart Bluetooth Flue Gas Analyser & Manometer Kit can help ALL engineers save time and money when connected to the free TPI View app.

Costs are lowered by utilising the powerful processor, and the screen on your smartphone or tablet boldly displays the readings. It does exactly the same as a screened FGA and you don’t need to be tech-savvy: we know self-proclaimed technophobes who have realised how easy it is to use from the first time they pick it up.

The DC710C2 and the TPI View app include these enhanced features: • Colour coded green, amber and red readings such as In-Spec Ratio, making it easier to identify a potential problem • GPS-tagged reports for unequivocal proof of completed works • Integrated FGA and pressure readings TERMS AND CONDITIONS

By entering this prize draw, you agree to these terms and conditions: • Registered Gas Engineer and TPI do not accept responsibility for lost, delayed, corrupted or invalid entries.

• One winner will be chosen at random from all correct answers submitted in accordance with these terms and conditions.

• The winner will be notified by email. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

• The prize cannot be substituted or upgraded.

straight into landlords’ gas safety records • Informative notifications advising of next calibration due date – and not forgetting to put the test cap back on at the end of the job • Detailed warnings of potential water or dust ingress using water stop technology, and stopping the pump, protecting the instrument from unnecessary downtime • Add results and tests from other sources such as let-by and tightness tests, ambient CO, and flow and return temperature readings • E-mail completed jobs to multiple recipients.

Using TPI can reduce your costs, lighten your workload, keep the FGA running from day to day and streamline the annual recalibration procedure. It provides security for the contractor/organisation and the engineer, protection for the customer, and greater assistance when dealing with today’s new challenges. www.tpieurope.com

• The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative.

• Registered Gas Engineer and TPI 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 TPI, Gas Safe Register or Registered Gas Engineer or their direct family members or agents.

• Registered Gas Engineer and TPI do not accept any responsibility for any network connection,

For your chance to win a DC710C2 Smart Bluetooth Flue Gas Analyser & Manometer Kit, just answer the following question correctly: How much does the TPI View app cost to download from the App Store or Google Play?

A. Free B. £5 C. £10 Please email your answer, including TPI in the subject line, plus your name, address and registration number to competition@registeredgasengineer. co.uk Closing date is Friday 30 April 2021.

The winner of our February competition was James Murdoch from Twickenham.

He won six months of free Checkatrade membership plus a Makita radio.

Peter Farrell from Fakenham won the March competition and takes home a Danfoss TPOne room controller and RAS-B2 radiator packs.

technical failure or other problem in any telephone line, network, system, provider or otherwise which results in any entry not being properly recorded or received.

• One entry per person.

• Your entry details will be provided to TPI, which may use them for marketing purposes. By entering this competition, you agree that you may receive communications from TPI. If you do not wish to be contacted, please add NO COMMUNICATIONS in your email entry.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 51

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