Registered Gas Engineer, January/February 2025 issue

Issue 183 January/February 2025

Spotlight on Gas Safe Register’s work across the UK Gas Safe news How to comply with the Rules of Registration Warning over CO danger to pets

Technical Bunsen burners: installation and competences IP meter installations

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Issue 183 January/February 2025

Spotlight on Gas Safe Register’s work across the UK Gas Safe news How to comply with the Rules of Registration Warning over CO danger to pets

Technical Bunsen burners: installation and competences IP meter installations

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | CONTENTS

Editor’s comment Happy New Year! Did you make any resolutions?

Maybe you’re planning to learn new skills, find time to get on a training course – or even just get that admin under control. The government has certainly made plenty of resolutions, in a flurry of announcements late last year that will affect the heating industry.

Spring will see the Clean Heat Market Mechanism get under way, a year late after the previous government kicked the can down the road.

The scheme will see major boiler manufacturers ‘fined’ if they don’t sell enough heat pumps – but many will have given a sigh of relief that the penalties are much lower than originally planned.

The government also loosened the reins on the regulations around fitting heat pumps. It removed the requirement to get planning permission to fit an air source heat pump, as well as the 1m boundary rule, and put more money behind the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. No doubt it’s hoping for even greater success in 2025 than 2024, when more heat pumps were fitted than ever before.

And boilers get a look-in too. The government is consulting on measures that will increase their efficiency, removing the simplest controls from the market and mandating open-protocol communication between boilers and their controls.

Find out more inside this issue, as well as the latest on the potential role of hybrids and in-depth technical features.

Nicki Shearer, editor

Gas Safe Register, PO Box 631, DARLINGTON, DL1 9GD Email: enquiries@gassaferegister.co.uk, register@gassaferegister. co.uk or technical@gassaferegister.co.uk Managing editor: Sue Harker, sue.harker@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: Rob Walkerdine, Carl Banister, Jonathan Palmer, Mike Cummings Production: Mark Turpin Advertising enquiries only: Ian Carter, ian@rgemagazine.co.uk Additional print subscriptions £25 per year email: wgardiner@circdata.com, Tel 020 8149 9222 Registered Gas Engineer is written, designed and CIRCULATION: Jan-Dec 2023 published by The Team on behalf of Gas Safe Register.

78,987 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ 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.

04 January/February 2024

Issue 183 January/February 2025

Spotlight on Gas Safe Register’s work across the UK Gas Safe news How to comply with the Rules of Registration Warning over CO danger to pets

Technical Bunsen burners: installation and competences IP meter installations

Issue 183 | January/February 2025

07 08 10 13 16 28

Gas Safe Register Update re you ready to renew your registration?

A Here are Gas Safe Register’s top tips for a smooth renewal

Gas Safe Register at a glance ighlights from the Register’s work H across the UK

Gas Safe Register Update A reminder of some of the ways you need to comply with the Rules of Registration

Gas Safe Register Update

Warning over the danger of carbon monoxide to pets

he good, the bad T and the ugly Focus Update on the latest government moves to improve the energy efficiency of homes, including the green light for the Clean Heat Market Mechanism, removing the planning permission requirement for air source heat pumps, and a new consultation on the energy efficiency of heating appliances

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | CONTENTS

Technical

20 21 22

I ndustry Standard Update 126

IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Supplement 1 Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments

Safety Alert 035 Intergas boilers

Bunsen burners

Guidance on installation and servicing

24

Refractory ceramic fibres

26

Intermediate pressure (IP) meter installations

38

The Legislative, Normative and Informative Documents List

32

35

Electrical safety

36

afe isolation procedures, proper S tools and careful verification are key to ensuring electrical safety when working on gas appliances

Hybrid heating

Hybrid options can help to support the gas network in a low-carbon heat future PLUS New white paper sets out policy recommendations to support their take-up

What to do if you find damaged insulation pads in gas boilers or broken coal beds in gas fires

44 47 49

How to identify domestic intermediate pressure meter installations and where you might find them

Water treatment Keeping central heating systems free of magnetite and other debris helps to protect components. But what are the requirements and best practice for water treatment?

Your business

ow accurate is your hourly rate?

H PLUS Take another look at apprenticeships

Towards net zero

Product update

The latest launches from around the industry

Key

Get in touch

Safety Alert

Gas Safe campaigns

Technical

Contact details

More Industry information Standard Update

Policies

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 05

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | UPDATE FROM THE REGISTER

update from the Register

5

steps to smooth registration renewal

Are you ready to renew your registration? Here are Gas Safe Register’s top tips.

Make sure you know the log-in details for your Gas Safe Register online account.

If you’ve forgotten them, the Customer Services team can help you.

You can check that all your details are up to date via your online account at: www.GasSafeRegister. co.uk/sign-in If you haven’t got an online account, it’s easy to set one up – just call Customer Services on 0800 408 5577.

1

When you log into your online account, you’ll see an Alert that your registration is due for renewal.

If all the details are up to date, just enter your payment details and renew. When your payment has been processed, Gas Safe Register will email to confirm that your registration has been renewed.

You should receive your registration certificate and updated ID card for you and any engineers you employ within 10-15 working days.

2

3

If you want to pay the renewal fee by direct debit, you can set this up by

choosing My Account and selecting Direct Debit. You can set up a direct debit right up to your registration expiry date and choose either the 1st or the 18th of the month as your payment date.

Once you’ve set up the direct debit, you can make any changes to your registration by choosing Update Details from the Business Summary menu.

If you already have a direct debit set up, please check that the details are still correct by selecting Renew.

If you have already set up to pay by direct debit, your registration will be renewed automatically and you’ll receive an email to confirm when payment will be taken.

If you need to change your trading title, make sure you change it before you renew. This is so that your ID card(s) and registration certificate will have your new company name.

When you let Gas Safe Register know that you’re changing your trading title, the Register has to carry out additional checks, so do allow enough time for this to be completed before the renewal date. If you leave it until the last minute, you may not be able to

4

renew in time and risk being removed from the Register.

You can complete a Change of Trading Title request via your online account. Once you have logged in, go to the Dashboard and choose the Resource Hub. There is no charge provided that the change of trading title has been completed before your registration is renewed.

Don’t forget to make sure that all your competencies are up to date before you renew, as well as those of any engineers you employ. If your core competencies (eg, CCN1 or COCN1) have run out, or will run out before the new registration start date, you won’t be able to renew your registration.

It’s important to leave enough time for your certification body to notify Gas Safe Register that you’ve added or renewed competencies – this can take up to six weeks. n

5

Gas Safe Register will email your invitation to renew eight weeks before your registration expires, so please make sure that the email address the Register holds for you is correct.

If you don’t manage your account online, you’ll receive your invitation by post and it will include details of the cost of renewal and how you can make payment.

You can renew your registration by phone using the automated service at any time of day or night on 0800 408 5577. Make sure you have your Gas Safe four-digit PIN and your registration number to hand.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 07

update from the Register

Gas Safe Register

at a glance Highlights from Gas Safe Register’s work in 2023/24.*

6m

website visits

150,729 registered engineers

76,630

911,946

registered businesses

visits to engineer website

5,056 new businesses on the Register

54,054

calls answered

by Technical Helpline *Source: Gas Safe Register At a Glance Report 2023/24

08 January/February 2025

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | UPDATE FROM THE REGISTER

Illegal gas work

1,048

Inspection

Number of reports regarding unregistered fitters

924

60,174

Defects attributed to unregistered fitters (AR, ID and NCS)

457

Number of site investigations of unregistered gas work

99

%

Number of inspections carried out

15,764

Number of previously unseen businesses inspected Top three issues found: 1. Flue construction on appliances 2. Appliance safety on boiler installs 3. Installation of fires

Illegal gas sites visited within 10 days of being reported

Top engineer queries

Virtual Inspection Events

Renewing registration and 2FA

Notifying work

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 09

update from the Register

Are you following the rules? with Gas Safe if you change There’s more to being Gas Safe registered your trading title. than just paying your registration fee.

Inspecting gas work Here’s a reminder of some of the ways you of gas work is a vital need to comply with the Rules of Registration. Inspection part of the gas safety regime

C

ommunication is a vital part of being on the Register. Making sure that your contact details are up to date means Gas Safe Register can get in touch with you when needed, including notifying you about: • When your registration is due for renewal • Planned inspections • Safety Alerts • Any customer concerns raised against you • Notifying you of any sanctions against you.

It’s important to notify Gas Safe Register of any changes to your contact phone number, email address, business address, etc, and this should be done within five working days.

The Registration Policy requires you to monitor communications from Gas Safe Register and to act in a timely manner as and when required and appropriate.

Note: The majority of businesses choose to receive their communications electronically, and this means that they pay a lower registration fee. If you want to change your communications

10 January/February 2025

to receive a hard copy after you have renewed your registration, you will need to pay the difference in fees.

Changing your trading title The trading title under which you carry out gas work must be the same trading title registered with Gas Safe.

You must update your details

and a condition of your Gas Safe registration.

Inspection involves observing your knowledge, competence and safe working pratices.

Different periodic inspections are planned and carried out, based on a risk factor applied to the business. An inspection may be probationary, routine – all businesses can expect to be inspected at some point within a five-year cycle – or in

General responsibilities It’s important not to forget the general day-to-day responsibilities of being a Gas Safe registered engineer.

At glance, if you are carrying out gas work, you must ensure that you: • Are listed as an engineer and hold the appropriate work categories for the work being carried out • Ensure that all work carried out meets the requirement of the relevant Health and Safety enforcement agency • Work competently • Ensure that all work is tested and commissioned and left in a safe condition • Carry out work that meets the relevant manufacturer’s instructions and is in line with all relevant standards and documents • Correctly apply IGEM/G/11, the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure, when necessary • Report unsafe gas work carried out by others to Gas Safe Register • Carry your ID card and make it available for inspection when requested, and return it to Gas Safe Register if asked to do so.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | UPDATE FROM THE REGISTER

Gas Safe Register’s Rules of Registration, its Registration Policy and other documents referenced in this article are available at: www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk/about-us/our-policies response to a gas safety or competence concern.

You may be invited to attend a Virtual Inspection Event. These are carried out online and hosted by a specially trained team of advisors and technical officers. They incorporate a pre-assessment briefing and an online knowledge-based technical assessment that is based on your registration work categories and unsafe situations.

The Registration Policy provides a detailed description of the different types of inspection.

Work records You may be asked to produce details of work you have carried out in the past. You must make a record of all gas work, keep it and make it available to Gas Safe Register and your customers if they ask for it. This includes any work completed by another registered engineer on your behalf.

Information you need to provide includes the address and date that the work was carried out, along with the

“ You must make a record of all gas work and make it available to Gas Safe Register and your customers if they ask for it.”

appliance model and combustion analysis readings, for example.

It also includes any actions you carried out in line with IGEM/G/11, the Unsafe Situations Procedure, such as issuing warning notices.

You must keep records for a minimum of six years.

Working within scope It is important to keep track of your qualifications to ensure that all work carried out is within scope. Failure to do this could lead to you working outside the scope of your current competencies.

Technical Bulletin 14 (B) Working within scope of work categories provides guidance on industry standards and competence requirements that apply to gas work in different environments.

Note: If you hold non-gas Building Regulations qualifications such as G3 (unvented hot water), you need to send these to Gas Safe Register yourself in order for the qualification to be listed on your ID card. ACS qualifications are sent directly to the Register by the awarding organisation.

The Gas Safe Register brand Only registered gas businesses are permitted to display the Gas Safe Register brand and registration number, which can only be used in association with the registered trading name.

Where the trademarks are not being used in accordance with the brand guidelines, Gas Safe will take appropriate action. Failure to comply with the brand guidelines is a breach of the Rules of Registration and action will be taken in line with the Sanctions Policy. n

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 11

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | UPDATE FROM THE REGISTER

update from the Register

Warning over danger to pets from CO

P

et owners could be putting their beloved four-legged companions at risk by not spotting the tell-tale signs and symptoms of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, according to research by Gas Safe Register.

Nearly all those surveyed (99%) were not able to correctly identify all the signs that can indicate their pet could be suffering from CO poisoning, despite more than four in five (83%) saying they care for their pet’s health and wellbeing just as much as that of a family member or close friend.

Nearly three-quarters (74%) didn’t know that red gums, ears or lips are some of the tell-tale signs of CO poisoning in cats and dogs. A similar number were unaware that irritable behaviour, drowsiness, difficulty breathing and breathlessness can also be signs.

Gas Safe Register joined

forces with the RSPCA to support Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, helping to make sure that the nation’s pet parents are clued up on the warning signs of CO and essential gas safety habits around the home.

RSPCA Chief Vet Caroline Allen says: “Pets’ smaller size and lower lung capacity make them more sensitive to CO exposure, so they may be among the first to feel the effects if there is a leak.

“Obviously our pets can’t speak to us to tell us how they’re feeling so it’s really important that we keep a close eye for any changes in their behaviour or any physical symptoms that could suggest they’re unwell or might have been exposed to something dangerous.

“We are urging the public to brush up on the symptoms of CO poisoning in pets, which can include drowsiness, vomiting, being unstable,

reddened gums and unusual or unexplained changes in behaviour. If you see any of these symptoms or are at all concerned about your pet, we’d urge you to urgently ventilate the space, seek fresh air and speak to your vet.”

Spend wisely While pet parents typically spend around £2,000 a year to take care of their four-legged friend, one in five pet parents with gas appliances in their home do not have a CO alarm, which can cost as little as £20.

Gas Safe’s Head of Professional and Field Services Rob Denman says: “As a nation of pet lovers, it is concerning that the majority of pet owners could not identify all the potential signs and symptoms of CO poisoning in their pets.

“This concern is heightened by our latest inspection data, which reveals that up to one in five UK homes could have an unsafe gas appliance.” n

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 13

FAST TRACK EARN UP TO

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thegoodthebad&theugly Send us your pictures Registered Gas Engineer wants to see your pictures – whether you’ve come across some horrors or instances of really good work. Please email your stories and pictures to editorial@registeredgasengineer.co.uk or via Twitter to @RGEMag

FROM PETER CAMPBELL FROM RANA KHAN Rana’s customer said their boiler was switching off – but the problem turned out to be with the chimney/ flue, which was covered with a soil pipe elbow and restricting the boiler.

FROM ILAN BROWER Ilan inspected the void where the chimney/flue enters the next room while he was carrying out a service. He noticed that the paint was bubbling, it was incorrectly installed and one extension was damaged. He replaced the chimney/flue correctly.

16 January/February 2025

This LPG cooker had natural gas injectors, incorrect hose connected and was inadequately supported when Peter was called to a gas escape.

It’s now been installed to the correct regulations and with new LPG injectors.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | OUR PHOTOS

FROM GRAHAM WILLIAMS The home-made plume management kit on this chimney/ flue adaption was left on the floor to discharge into the gully. Graham had to contact the ESP because the tenant refused to let him make it safe.

FROM MICHAEL CAMERON Michael was due to replace a boiler and found a damaged cable: a light switch wire had been fed through the boiler bracket. It shows the importance of carrying out a safe-to-touch test before starting work. An electrician made everything safe.

FROM IAN FISHER Ian was asked to service a gas fire that had been fitted by a reputable company and serviced a few times over the years.

He found damage at the bottom of the starter to allow for the gas pipe that was not sealed up.

Ian repaired and recommissioned the appliance.

FROM VASILII STAVILA The chimney/flue had been redirected using a toilet waste pipe after a new roof extension.

Vasilii replaced it.

> www.gassaferegister.co.uk 17

thegoodthebad&theugly continued >

FROM IAN FISHER Ian was going to install a new boiler and found the existing installation had failed a tightness test. He was surprised that it had ever passed.

FROM ROBERT SPEIGHT This new boiler was not fitted in line with the manufacturer’s instructions nor using the correct parts and was making a banging noise. Robert made the appliance safe.

FROM ANDY GATENBY Andy was carrying out a commercial catering check at a Chinese takeaway and found an outdoor propane water heater with no CE mark fitted in the kitchen, connected to a natural gas supply that was powered by two batteries.

The case was compromised, and there was a 15mm TRV on the hot outlet pipework that they used to try to regulate the water temperature.

It was capped off and the installation made safe.

18 January/February 2025

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | OUR PHOTOS

FROM JAMES HART James was due to carry out a boiler service but found multiple defects, including a chimney/ flue modified by the homeowner following building work. James made the boiler safe, labelled/documented accordingly and reported under RIDDOR. He has since re-attended to replace the boiler in a different location.

FROM ROY PARKES Roy says he has seen a few hobs on hoses when taking out kitchens, but he was amazed at this one with what looks like a water tap flexible connector connected to the gas supply. He made safe.

FROM GARY CLARKE Gary had fitted this boiler a few years ago but the gas service and meter had been relocated as part of a service upgrade since then. Gary couldn’t perform a tightness test because the ECV was set so that the supply could not be isolated: the locking pin prevented the valve from falling to shut and the wall prevented it from closing at all. The ESP was called to rectify the installation.

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 19

TECHNICAL

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

Industry Standard Update 126

IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Supplement 1 Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments Date issued: 21 October 2024 This Industry Standard Update provides an overview of the recently published industry standard IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Supplement 1 Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments.

Introduction

In August 2024 the new IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Supplement 1 Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments (Communication 1876)(1) was published. This revised publication supersedes IGEM/IG/2 Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments (Communication 1772)(2), which has now been withdrawn.

The revision to this standard comes into effect immediately.

Scope

IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Supplement 1 gives guidance for gas engineers on how to apply IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments(3). All information contained in Supplement 1 can be found in the full version of IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2.

General

Significant and minor amendments have been made throughout the standard and the

20 January/February 2025

main details are as follows.

Section 4.7.2 now states that testing on a new, partially new or existing installation needs to be performed with appliances and burners operating on maximum cooking load conditions and without any utensils in place.

Ventilation systems need to be operating normally with all filters and baffles in place.

Where variable speed systems (VSS) systems are installed, the tests need to be performed at the lowest setting, as per 4.7.3. If the VSS interlocks are installed in conjunction with sensors, the test needs to be carried out in all operating modes, ensuring that the air quality is maintained throughout the range of conditions.

There have been considerable amendments to 5.1 and 5.2, and references to Type A and Type B appliances have been removed. Section 5.2 now directs that, where practicable, users need to be advised that the frequency of servicing and testing of ventilation systems is to be based on the manufacturer’s instructions and the use of catering equipment. However, at least yearly would be a reasonable minimum frequency: this also applies

to the gas installation.

There are small changes to the illustrations and flow charts and a slight amendment to give a carbon dioxide detector fitted at approximately 2 meters from the floor. Figures 2 and 3 (risk assessment flowcharts) deal with NEW or EXISTING installations and have slight amendments. They replace the previous versions.

An additional note in 7.1 provides details of the actions required by the responsible person in the kitchen when a gas detection system alarm is triggered.

Summary As previously stated, this Industry Standard Update only gives a brief overview of the information contained in the amended standard. Registered businesses should be aware that they have a responsibility to ensure that they are fully apprised of all the requirements of the whole published standard and their practical application.

This standard can be viewed free at: www.igem.org.uk/ resource/igem-up-19edition-2-supplement1-guidance-for-gasengineers-to-theapplication-ofrelevant-sectionsof-igem-up-19-incateringestablishments.html Bibliography (1) IGEM/UP/19 (Communication 1876) Edition 2 Guidance for gas engineers to the application or relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments (2) IGEM/IG/2 (Communication 1772) Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments (3) IGEM/UP/19 (Communication 1865) Edition 2 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments

TECHNICAL

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

Safety Alert 035 Developed with Intergas Heating

Intergas Boilers Date issued: 30 October 2024

This Safety Alert provides guidance to Gas Safe registered businesses/engineers about a product safety concern related to some Intergas-manufactured boilers.

Introduction

Gas Safe Register has been made aware of a concern regarding a possible issue with some Intergas boilers, whereby a gas escape may occur upon installation of the appliance.

transit. While Intergas has taken steps to inspect all new appliances coming from its factory, there may be a small number of affected boilers being held in merchants, etc.

Corrective actions

Hazard

Intergas Heating has identified a potential risk with a small number of its gas boilers, where the gas valve connections (both inlet and outlet) may become loose in

It is expected that any such issue with the gas valve connections would be identified during the commissioning of the appliance. However, it is imperative that both connections on the gas valve

are correctly tightened prior to gas being introduced to the appliance and that the commissioning procedure detailed in the manufacturer’s instructions is followed correctly.

If there are any concerns, the Intergas Technical & Service Department can be contacted on 01527 888000 or email: service@intergasheating. co.uk

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www.gassaferegister.co.uk 21

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

Today’s homework:

Bunsen burners Gas Safe Register’s Technical Team look at where you might find Bunsen burners (they’re not only in schools) to provide guidance on installation and servicing best practice, along with the competences you need.

Y

ou’ll usually find Bunsen burners in educational establishments but they can also be found in dental practices, jewellery workshops and even sometimes in a domestic environment used by a hobbyist.

A Bunsen burner is classed as a gas fitting and you don’t need any specific ACS competency. However, the requirement to work on them is initially dictated by the pipework with which they are supplied, ie, CCN1 for domestic size pipework(1) or the relevant qualification for commercial pipework(2).

When considering undertaking gas work in a school or similar environment, there are several factors to consider other than the possession of the required competency for pipework. These include proving competence and a level of understanding to work in that environment, and knowledge of safe systems of work, safety controls and ventilation requirements.

IGEM/UP/11(3) and IGEM/IP/19(4) provide more information.

Gas engineers who carry out work in school laboratories may also work in home economics classrooms, which could have several domestic gas cookers installed. In this instance, you need a commercial catering competency.

22 January/February 2025

Therefore, you should understand the special considerations, as well as the requirements of IGEM/UP/11 and IGEM/UP/19, under which Bunsen burners fall.

Location You should carry out a risk assessment of the surrounding area before installation and make sure that any issues are addressed. A bench capable of carrying the weight of the burners and other equipment

easy to operate and labelled to indicate their open and closed positions.

A permanent notice should be displayed close to the AECV, instructing the teacher/ responsible person to verify that all the manual taps are closed, immediately before and after the AECV is opened.

Where it’s not practicable to fit an AECV, install an automatic isolation valve (AIV).

The emergency shut-off button should be positioned either

Safe systems of work IGEM/ UP/11 Guidance of gas installations for the management and staff within educational establishments gives guidance on training and understanding the gas systems, of which the staff should be aware when working in a school.

is needed, which must be able to withstand any excessive temperatures that the burners are likely to generate when in use.

Workbenches or bollards should be secure, stable and anchored to the floor with suitable fixings. Any workbench or bollard that allows movement must be investigated.

Isolation Each teaching area shall have its own form of gas isolation, ie, an additional emergency control valve (AECV). These need to be readily accessible,

near the light switches or in a discrete position near to the teacher’s desk. The system shall be reset by an authorised person, for example, with a key or a key code.

These AIV systems shall also incorporate a proving unit if there are appliances without flame safeguards, such as a Bunsen burner. This will ensure that there are no open ends before allowing the gas supply to be re-established.

Pipework When carrying out pipe size/ pressure-loss calculations, you

TECHNICAL

should take into account the number of gas taps that are to be installed and the number of burners that are likely to be used at any one time.

In this case, a load diversity calculation can be made, based on the requirements of the classroom. This calculation would generally include the allowance for extra pupils.

Ventilation This shall be designed to provide adequate ventilation for occupants and to dilute fumes and water vapour generated from the use of Bunsen burners. This will ensure that noxious fumes are removed and the control of condensation is maintained.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) levels should not exceed 2,800ppm, and an audible or visual alarm should alert teachers at this level. Staff should be trained in the operation of the CO2 monitor and be aware of what action to take in the event of an alarm activation. This could involve shutting off the appliances, opening a window and moving pupils into a safe area until the readings have dropped to a safe level.

For new and refurbished installations, high levels of CO2 at 5,000ppm should shut down the gas supply.

When it comes to safety controls, new and existing

installations have different requirements. Some existing installations can be reliant on audible and visual alarms to alert teachers to increase ventilation at 2,800ppm and, where practicable, would automatically shut down the gas supply at 5,000ppm.

For new and reconditioned installations, and where mechanical extraction and make-up air are used, monitoring devices shall be used to detect high levels of CO2 as well as the failure of any mechanical ventilation systems.

These systems detect an unsafe situation and cut off the gas supply to the taps/ burners by the means of a solenoid valve. They sometimes incorporate a proving system if required.

Visual condition/ state of repair Bunsen burners are usually connected to the gas taps by flexible rubber tubing. The burner and its connection fitting should be inspected for damage, as well as the tubing.

The tubing should be as short as reasonably practicable.

It should be inspected for signs of damage such as cuts and abrasions, stretching, stiffening and cracking.

You should also inspect the flame picture of the working Bunsen burner. ■

Bibliography (1) BS 6891:2015 + A1:2019 Specification for the installation and maintenance of low-pressure gas installation pipework (2) IGEM/UP/2 Edition 3 Installation pipework on industrial and commercial premises (3) IGEM/UP/11 Gas installations in educational establishments (4) IGEM/UP/19 Design and application of interlock devices and associated systems used with gas appliance installations in commercial catering establishments

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 23

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

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Refractory ceramic fibres What should you do if you find damaged insulation pads in gas boilers or broken coal beds in gas fires? Gas Safe Register’s Technical Team set out how to identify refractory ceramic fibres and how to deal with them.

24 January/February 2025

as engineers often encounter damaged insulation pads in gas boilers or broken coal beds in gas fires. It’s important to be aware of the potential hazards from refractory ceramic fibres (RCFs) in these appliances because they can be harmful when not dealt with correctly.

Exposure to fibres should be prevented or, if this is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled. The number of people likely to be exposed to RCFs and the duration of their exposure should always be kept to the minimum necessary for the work.

What are they?

RCFs are a group of several types of man-made vitreous (silicate) fibres, used as an insulation material in hightemperature applications.

They are mainly used as a lining material for kilns and furnaces, although several gas appliance manufacturers have highlighted that their gas appliances contain RCFs. Advantages over traditional refractory brick are that the fibre is light, relatively inexpensive and thermally efficient.

However, it is easily damaged and becomes brittle and friable after quite limited periods of use. It is not uncommon to find that repairs are required every two years or so.

The fibres themselves can irritate the skin, eyes and upper respiratory tract. But the main danger is that the individual fibres are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and potentially lead to the development of lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Where gas appliances contain RCFs, manufacturers may provide specific guidance in their installation and servicing instructions.

It is essential to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the appliance to establish whether it contains RCFs

TECHNICAL

Refractory ceramic fibres before they are manufactured into different components such as fuel beds for gas fires and insulation panels in gas boilers

and, where that is the case, what specific precautions should be taken. Contact the manufacturer’s technical helpline to establish any additional information that may be relevant.

Following several years of discussions in expert working groups involving industry and trade union representatives, a European Directive now sets out that RCFs with fibres less than 6mm length weighted geometric mean diameter are classified as Category 2 carcinogens – substances to be regarded as if they are

measures are taken. The COSHH Carcinogens ACOP specifies that the first choice with carcinogenic materials is to prevent exposure by avoiding their use or substitution by a less-hazardous alternative. If it is not reasonably practicable to do this, exposure should be controlled to the lowest level reasonably practicable.

Personal safety and PPE Before working on appliances containing RCFs, it is important to use the relevant PPE. You should consider additional

“ Individual RCF fibres are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs.” carcinogenic to humans.

Most RCF-containing products marketed in the UK fall into this category. They are additionally classified as irritating to the skin.

There is no ban on the use of RCFs but any work with the fibres is subject to control measures under the Control of Substance Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994 (COSHH Regulations), Carcinogens Approved Code of Practice (COSHH Carcinogens ACOP).

The COSHH Regulations require employers to assess risks from their use of hazardous substances and ensure that appropriate control

control measures to prevent fibres from dispersing outside the control area.

Carry out a visual inspection of the appliance before you carry out any work. Protective overalls should be worn when handling RCFs. For dusty operations, use a loose-fitting, one-piece disposable overall, preferably with a hood, and dispose of it afterwards.

Consideration should be given to minimising exposure to any residual dust clinging to overalls when you take them off. Wear gloves when handling RCFs to help prevent skin irritation.

Along with appropriate PPE, tools, knowledge and control

measures, you must lightly spray the area containing RCFs with clean water from a spray bottle to minimise particles being dispersed unnecessarily.

As with any other potentially hazardous material, consult and follow the information on product labels and safety data sheets provided by manufacturers.

Whatever sort of equipment is chosen, workers should be trained and instructed in its correct use, its limitations and the importance of keeping it clean and in good condition.

Housekeeping and waste disposal Waste fibre should be carefully placed directly into heavy-duty plastic bags. Be careful not to do this too vigorously or dust will blow back out. All waste should be double bagged in heavy-duty plastic bags and clearly labelled to indicate the contents.

RCF is classified as a “special waste” and must be disposed of accordingly, ie, with a consignment note and at a licensed disposal site. For more information, contact the local Environment Agency office (SEPA in Scotland).

RCFs being transported on the road are not subject to regulations concerning the carriage of dangerous goods as these regulations apply to materials that could cause immediate danger to the emergency services and other road users. ■

You can find out more about working with RCFs from HSE at: https://shorturl. at/aSKS8

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 25

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

Intermediate pressure (IP) meter installations How to identify domestic intermediate pressure meter installations and where you might find them.

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Where you may find an IP installation.

When encountering an IP installation, there may be a label on the regulator stating the maximum operating pressure (MOP), which could be 7 bar (for IP) or 2 bar (for MP). There should also be a label indicating the service pressure.

26 January/February 2025

any of you will be familiar with domestic medium-pressure (MP) gas meter installations with an incoming supply pressure of 75 mbar up to 2 bar and an outlet pressure of 21 mbar.

Historically, MP regulators have two main design variants: single-stage (older design), which can generally operate safely across the full range of the incoming pressure tier, and a two-stage design (newer design), which generally operate safely from around 270 mbar up to 2 bar incoming pressure.

The historic single-stage designs used on domestic MP are remarkably similar to the

regulators that were used on domestic intermediate pressure (IP) installations.

In fact, there may be variants of the same regulator makes/ models, with changes made to internal parts to suit the higher supply pressure on IP. Figure 1 below highlights the fact that it is not always easy to differentiate between a domestic MP single-stage installation and a domestic IP installation.

The main concerns with domestic IP meter installations is that engineers may not always identify them, resulting in: • Engineers working outside

Figure 1. Domestic medium-pressure single stage versus domestic intermediate pressure.

All images courtesey of National Gas Metering

TECHNICAL Figure 2: Medium-pressure twin stage (left) and medium-pressure single stage on IP service (centre and right).

their competence (because most have not been trained or deemed competent for IP work) • The installation of domestic MP regulators on an IP service (see Figure 2). This is Immediately Dangerous under IGEM/G/11,

the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure.

Domestic IP Installations are not currently covered under ACS/industry training because there are few installations, most of which are concentrated in certain geographical locations across the UK (see map).

Guidance The following guidance should be followed if you suspect the supply to the installation might be IP: • Check the supply pressure label when present.

• Check the supply pressure if possible.

• Check that the supply pressure matches the Work Order and that meter installation components available are suitable for the supply pressure.

• Take note of the maximum operating pressure rating on the regulator label (when present) and confirm it’s suitable for the incoming pressure tier.

• Check the ECV type, as this may also provide an indicator of the incoming pressure tier.

• If in doubt, try to establish positive confirmation, eg, by Network maps • Be aware that domestic IP installations do exist, primarily in Scotland, the north of England and Wales. Always check available information on site.

• If still in doubt, seek guidance from National Gas Metering (NGM) or your local gas transporter.

• If a domestic IP meter installation is installed internally (built-over service), it should be deemed At Risk (AR) and you should follow the relevant guidance in IGEM/G/11, the Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP). Further guidance can be found in Technical Bulletin 003: Builtover unprotected polyethylene (PE) low and medium pressure natural gas services – Safety concern

This labelling should be present when a domestic installation is supplied with intermediate pressure.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 27

Clean Heat Market Mechanism to start with lower ‘fines’ The Clean Heat Market Mechanism (CHMM) will start in April but with much reduced ‘fines’ for manufacturers that do not meet their targets for selling heat pumps.

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he government has watered down the previous administration’s plans, making two big changes.

It says: “The payment-in-lieu level that obligated parties will be required to make for each missing credit will be reduced from £3,000 to £500 for the first scheme year.”

The scheme is due to start on 1 April 2025, not 1 January as originally planned.

The CHMM is an obligation on major manufacturers that they must sell a set number of heat pumps as a proportion of their boiler sales in the UK. The

28 January/February January/February 2025 2024

2025/26 target is set at 6%.

The mechanism was due to affect those manufacturers with sales of more than 20,000 gas boilers or 1,000 oil boilers a year. The government says a consultation on future scheme years will be published in 2025.

Installation and notification of heat pumps via a certification scheme such as MCS will earn them credits and those that miss their targets will have to pay a ‘fine’ for each

missing credit. Hybrid heat pump installations will earn half a credit.

The government said in its announcement: “Introducing the CHMM will help to provide market actors with the confidence and clarity to underpin investments and spur innovation in developing the UK’s heat pump market over the coming years.

Guidance to come “The government has introduced the scheme regulations to Parliament, and the Scheme Administrator will publish scheme guidance in due course.”

The CHMM will be administered by the Environment Agency.

When the plans to launch CHMM in 2024 were originally set out, some boiler manufacturers moved to increase the cost of their boilers to offset the anticipated fines – only to reduce them again when the previous government announced last March that it would delay the mechanism’s introduction.

Responding to the latest update, many broadly welcomed the move and clarity.

The Energy and Utilities

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | FOCUS

Govt loosens rules on heat pumps The government has removed the requirement for households to apply for planning permission to fit an air source heat pump and put more money behind the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

As part of its Warm Homes Plan, the rule requiring heat pumps to be sited at least 1 metre from the property boundary been removed, which it says has been a major cause of drop-outs by households who ordered a heat pump.

Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, says: “The changes to Permitted Development Rights are a welcome move that will support the deployment of heat pumps. We have worked

to coordinate the industry’s responses and support with updates to tools and our standards, such as the MCS Planning Standard for Permitted Development Installations of Air Source Heat Pumps (MCS 020), to facilitate these changes.”

Meanwhile, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, under which homes in England and Wales can get £7,500 off the cost of a heat pump, will get an extra £30 million in 2024/25.

The budget will be almost doubled in 2025/26 to £295 million. The government is also to consult on plans to increase energy efficiency standards for new boilers and heat pumps (see next page).

“ The CHMM will play an important role in reducing the upfront cost of heat pumps.”

Alliance had campaigned against the CHMM and called for it to be scrapped. Its chief executive Mike Foster said: “The new minister, Miatta Fahnbulleh, has spent time understanding the implications of the scheme she inherited from the previous government.

“She has displayed an intellectual rigour to this that her predecessor could not.

She has engaged constructively with industry and British manufacturers, who have warmly welcomed this new approach.

“By working in partnership, we have an outcome which no longer unfairly penalises business and consumers.

That is a big win for households across the country.”

Worcester Bosch’s CEO Carl Arntzen added: “We’re happy the minister has recognised the need to revise the CHMM and that further policy changes are required to increase heat pump demand and adoption in the UK.” Stew Horne, head of policy at the Energy Saving Trust, predicted that the CHMM will lower heat pump prices.

“The Clean Heat Market Mechanism will play an important role in reducing the upfront cost of heat pumps, encouraging manufacturers to offer competitive deals. It also provides much needed certainty for industry and the supply chain to scale up to meet the UK government’s ambition,” he said. n

‘2024 was best year for heat pumps 2024 was the best year on record for certified heat pump installations in the UK. In 2023, the UK saw 40,426 MCScertified heat pump installations between January and December. However, more than 50,000 installations were completed from January to the end of November 2024.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 29

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | FOCUS

The next steps to energy efficiency New proposals on upgrading the efficiency of heating appliances across the UK have been set out by the government.

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he government is now consulting on a range of measures that it says will improve energy efficiency and save money for households buying gas boilers and heat pumps (including hybrids) and their controls.

Building on the findings of the Boiler Plus Review and previous consultations, its proposed measures include: • All gas combi boilers under 45kW to be able to modulate their maximum output down to 15% without on/off cycling by mid-2028 • Larger domestic combis (32kW-45kW) boilers to modulate their maximum output down to 10% without on/off cycling by mid-2028 • All combi boilers to be supplied with a 60°C low flow temperature factory default setting by mid-2026

30 January/February 2025

• Removing simple on-off boiler controls by mid-2026 • All temperature controls and gas combi, system and regular boilers to use open protocols by mid-2026 • Providing information with boilers and temperature controls about which open protocols they can use • All temperature controls and oil combi boilers to use open protocols by mid-2028.

The government has acknowledged that a flow temperature of 55°C, as set out in ADL1, may not be suitable for all households, where only the boiler is being replaced, and that a higher flow temperature of 65° may be needed for households with people over 65 or with health conditions.

Controls Basic boiler controls will not be sufficient for any heating types after mid-2026. These include standard on/off controls as well as weather compensation controls that use external sensors only, which the government says are not commonly used.

Currently, manufacturers use both open and closed communication protocols to control the heating appliance.

The government proposes to mandate that all heating controls use open protocols by mid-2026, with oil boilers following in 2028. The controls must monitor/adjust the heating appliance’s flow-temperature to maintain the temperature rather than switching it on and off.

When it comes to heat pumps, it proposes to amend and introduce definitions of low, medium and high-temperature heat pumps and increase and introduce minimum efficiency requirements for each temperature. It anticipates that the move will remove the least efficient appliances from sale.

For the first time, a hybrid system will be formally defined as “a system of space heating, or space and water heating, that contains an electric heat pump, another heater which is not an electric heat pump, and a master control which determines, based on operating conditions, the heat output of each of the heaters.”

The government proposes introducing minimum efficiency requirements for hybrid heat pumps at medium-temperature application (55°C) of 125% from mid-2027. n

The government proposes updating Ecodesign and energy labelling regulations for space and combination heaters.

Its proposals build on research and evidence gathered through the Improving Boiler Standards and Efficiency consultation, Boiler Plus Standards review and Energy-related products: call for evidence.

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+ 5 year boiler warranty + 10 year heat exchanger warranty + Pre-commissioned www.gassaferegister.co.uk 31

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER TREATMENT

Treat the system right

Keeping central heating systems free of magnetite and other debris helps protect components, keeping boilers, radiators and heat exchangers free from corrosion and helping systems stay efficient.

Here we look at the requirements and best practice.

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he annual maintenance regime for a central heating system is more than just a safety check. Best practice has long advised that water in the heating system should be tested and treated regularly to minimise the formation of limescale, magnetite, sludge and other debris. This is a requirement of the Building Regulations in England and Wales.

If water is left untreated, limescale and other debris can settle inside radiators and heat exchangers, causing corrosion and forcing the boiler to work harder, lowering system efficiency and raising fuel bills.

Tests have shown that, without the use of an inhibitor, a central heating system could become 6% less efficient in just a few weeks. Ultimately, if left untreated, sludge will damage essential components over time, potentially leading to early failures and costly repair bills.

Treating domestic systems BEAMA’s compliance guide for heating engineers sets out the following steps for a system that includes radiators and/or underfloor heating: • Thoroughly clean and flush the entire system • Fit a heating system filter • Add an NSF CIA-approved chemical inhibitor to the system • Check the concentration of the inhibitor on installation • In hard water areas, fit a scale-reducing device to the feed water to instantaneous water heaters • The inhibitor concentration should be checked on installation to the manufacturer’s specification and then again annually and topped up if required • Complete the checklist in the Benchmark App, adding inhibitor type and concentration • If dealing with a mixed

“ If left untreated, sludge will damage essential components, potentially leading to early failures.”

32 January/February 2025

low-temperature and hightemperature system (ie, one with radiators and underfloor heating emitters), a heating system biocide should be added.

Ongoing maintenance of a mixed radiator and underfloor heating system should include: • Annual check of inhibitor concentration • System must be re-dosed after five years • As good practice, if the property is at risk of freezing, then a heating system antifreeze should be added.

Treating commercial systems The Industrial & Commercial Heating Equipment Association (ICOM) has issued its own guide to the Water Treatment and Conditioning of NonDomestic Systems.

A comprehensive water treatment regime is equally important to ensure the longevity of commercial systems. ICOM recommends that mains supply water with appropriate water treatment is suitable for filling non-domestic systems and heat networks in most instances.

On first fill, as well as pressure testing the system, an inhibitor and biocide should

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER TREATMENT

be added to ensure a good anti-corrosive film is laid down and microbiological control can be achieved from the outset.

New systems must be flushed and cleaned, preferably using chemical cleaners specifically formulated for new systems.

Before starting flushing and cleaning, adequately sized flushing points must be installed on the flow-and-return pipework or headers.

Filtration and dosing A number of devices are used to remove contamination from a system, including strainers, filters, magnetic filters, dirt separators, combined air and dirt separators and side stream filtration.

For all systems, the use of filtration and de-aeration devices is recommended.

The chemical dosing system should be sized relative to the system volume to allow enough treatment chemicals to be added.

Flushing Primary heating circuits should be thoroughly flushed before commissioning, during recommissioning after major remedial works or if known to have been affected by corrosion or sludge. Engineers should seek guidance from a water treatment specialist and adhere to all relevant manufacturers’ instructions.

After each stage of the flushing process, water samples should be taken.

System water treatment After the final flushing, treat the

Which regs apply?

British Standard 7593:2019: Code of practice for the preparation, commissioning and maintenance of domestic central heating and cooling water systems applies to domestic systems and those in apartment complexes with multiple dwellings.

BS 7593:2019 sets out procedures for the protection of heating and cooling systems against corrosion, sludge, scale and microbiological contamination. As well as applying to traditional individual heating systems, it applies to individual circuits in dwellings that are part of community systems (usually connected through a heat interface unit).

It details the key considerations that need to be followed to carry out an adequate system clean and lists the three principal cleaning and flushing methodologies: powerflushing, mains pressure clean and flush, and gravity clean and flush.

In July 2022, Part L of the Building Regulations: Conservation of fuel and power was revised and updated, creating two new documents that cover the energy efficiency requirements for heating systems in both new and existing dwellings in England: • Approved Document L, volume 1: Dwellings (ADL1) • Approved Document L, volume 2: Buildings other than Dwellings (ADL2).

Part L references BS 7593:2019 as the standard that heating engineers should follow to ensure compliance when installing or replacing a new heating appliance in a domestic building.

The Domestic Building Services Compliance Guide, which previously provided most of the interpretation and guidance on how to comply with the regulations, has been amalgamated into these two Approved Documents.

Note: BS 7593 does not apply to commercial or municipal premises or to multiple residential premises served by one common circuit unless that common circuit can be effectively cleaned and flushed with domestic equipment. It does apply to individual heating and cooling circuits within individual dwellings in multiple residential premises.

system with inhibitor during or after the final re-filling. Within 14 days of the initial dosing, inhibitor and biocide levels must be checked and adjusted as necessary. A biocide treatment should also be undertaken at this time.

Additional water quality sampling and testing should be taken at least quarterly, with some larger systems requiring monthly quality tests. ■

This article is produced in partnership with BEAMA (the trade association for energy infrastructure and systems), the Industrial & Commercial Heating Equipment Association (ICOM) and the Manufacturers of Equipment for Heat Networks Association (MEHNA).

You can find out more at: www.beama.org.uk, www.icom.org.uk and www.mehna.org.uk

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 33

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | WATER TREATMENT

A hard problem to solve Mike Oxley, training manager at Salamander Pumps, examines why managing and treating hard water is so important, its impact and effective treatment solutions.

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ater hardness is a common issue, affecting nearly 60% of households. It can lead to significant complications for plumbing and heating systems, often resulting in higher energy bills, reduced efficiency and a shorter lifespan for appliances.

Hard water contains high levels of minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium, which precipitate out of the water when heated, forming limescale deposits on surfaces such as heating coils and heat exchangers. Over time, this build-up can cause severe damage.

For homeowners, this can manifest in multiple ways, such as showerheads that don’t work as effectively and surfaces that are harder to clean.

Appliances are more prone to breakdowns and their lifespans are significantly shortened.

Measuring water hardness Installers should routinely check the hardness of the water supply and total dissolved solids (TDS) levels. TDS is an essential parameter for evaluating water quality, as it measures the total concentration of dissolved substances in the water, including minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

TDS levels alone do not directly indicate hardness but they provide an indication of the overall presence of dissolved minerals and impurities. High TDS levels may also suggest the presence of contaminants, such as salts, heavy metals or pollutants, which can affect the taste and usability of the water.

Building Regulations Part L sets out that water treatment is required if the hardness exceeds 200ppm.

Diagnostic tools, including devices that measure both water hardness and TDS, can provide accurate readings. They give a precise understanding of water composition, guiding installers to choose effective water treatment solutions and prevent limescale build-up.

Water conditioners Water conditioners have a sophisticated non-sacrificial core made of a copper/zinc alloy with semi-precious metal content. As hard water flows over the core, a catalytic process converts calcite (the typical form of calcium carbonate that creates limescale) into aragonite.

Aragonite is less likely to precipitate on to surfaces than calcite and typically remains suspended in the water, passing harmlessly through the

“ Water treatment is required if the hardness exceeds 200ppm.”

34 January/February 2025

system. The conditioner does not change the colour, taste or hardness of the water – it simply prevents the build-up of limescale.

Water conditioners are versatile, available for singlepoint applications as well as whole-house systems to provide comprehensive protection, suitable for retrofit and new installations.

They can be integrated into existing plumbing set-ups with minimal disruption and their compact design enables flexible placement. With no need for power or ongoing maintenance, they can provide a long-term solution to the problems caused by hard water.

By incorporating water hardness checks into regular maintenance routines and using innovative water conditioners, installers can provide a proactive, cost-effective solution to the problems caused by limescale. ■ www.salamanderpumps. co.uk/products/ accessories/waterconditioners

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Stay safe

around electricity Ensuring electrical safety is critical for gas engineers.

Safe isolation procedures, proper tools and careful verification are key to preventing accidents, writes Steve Dunning, managing director at Martindale.

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as engineers frequently encounter electrical hazards, often without realising the potential risks involved. From installing boilers to working near live circuits, even a small mistake can lead to serious injuries or worse. Each year, the HSE receives reports of electrical accidents involving tradespeople. These can result in electric shocks, burns or life-threatening injuries, with some cases leading to fatalities.

Safe isolation procedures are vital for anyone working where electricity could be a hidden but dangerous risk. Isolation procedures ensure that circuits

TB118a TB118a Safe to touch and/or safe isolation and proving electrically dead on low-voltage single-phase supplies (below 1000 volts) provides information and guidance relating to safe-to-touch and safe isolation procedures on low-voltage single-phase supplies when carrying out gas work.

You can read and download TB118a in your Gas Safe Register online account at: www.GasSafeRegister.co.uk/sign-in

“ Before carrying out any work, the circuit must be confirmed as definitely dead.” and equipment are fully de-energised before work starts, preventing any accidental contact with live components both for the person working near the system and any unsuspecting passers-by.

Lockout kits Lockout kits are essential to carry out safe isolation procedures effectively. A basic set should contain a range of locks for miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) and other types of breaker, a padlock with a unique key or a combination lock, and a hasp to be used when multiple individuals are servicing a system. Additionally, the kit should include lockout tags and warning stickers.

The key, or the code for the combination lock, should remain with the individual performing the task or with an appointed representative, to prevent unauthorised removal of the lock. Once the breaker has been locked off correctly, a warning tag should be attached to clearly identify that the circuit has been locked off and is being worked on.

Proving dead Before carrying out any work, the circuit must be confirmed

as definitely dead. A dedicated voltage indicator (which must conform to BS EN61243) should be used. Any voltage indicator used for proving dead must be capable of functioning without a battery as, if the battery is depleted, it would fail to confirm that the circuit is indeed dead.

The procedure for proving dead is to take your voltage indicator and check it against a known source, such as a proving unit. First test the circuit, then test the voltage indicator against the known source again to prove the tester has not failed during testing. While a live source could be used for testing, a proving unit specifically matched to the voltage indicator is a safer and more reliable option and will always be available.

In an industry where the risks of working near electricity are often overlooked, following proper safety protocols is essential. Implementing safe isolation procedures, using the right tools and verifying circuits are dead can significantly reduce the chance of serious accidents, ensuring a safer working environment for all. n

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 35

How to solve the gas network challenge What will happen to the UK’s extensive gas network in a low-carbon heat future? A managed transition is critical for network operators and households, so should we do more to support hybrid options, asks Alpha’s Darran Smith.

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o support the transition to net zero, the government is investing heavily in wind farms, solar and nuclear generation, as well as grants to encourage heat pump take-up.

But although all eyes are on the future of the electricity grid, we must consider the future of the gas network too. Measuring more than 280,000km, it faces a significant challenge: what do we do with a legacy of that scale?

Transition The National Infrastructure Commission, which advises the government, supports a significant role for hydrogen in the industrial sector. Some of the gas network is likely to continue in a hydrogen-delivery role but large parts are likely to face a diminished future.

The gas network is an interconnected web. A single pipe delivers natural gas to many homes, businesses and

36 January/February 2025

public buildings. So if one or two households along that pipe switch to electric-only heating and hot water, it doesn’t make much difference. However, if even a small number of customers remain on the gas network, the pipes that supply them need to remain.

In addition, as gas customers switch to electriconly heating, they are removed from the gas network and stop paying the standing charge for gas. That reduces the funds available to maintain the network. Falling customer numbers and a requirement to maintain the network could lead to rising costs for those who remain connected.

decade. Faced with these problems, it seems sensible to have a range of solutions.

We know that a single technology is rarely the answer and one solution is the smart hybrid heat pump. These systems leverage smart technology to optimise energy use, choosing the most cost-effective energy source – whether gas or electricity – on a minute-by-minute basis.

This would help to smooth out future fluctuations in domestic energy prices for households.

For the government and gas network operators, it’s an approach that provides a way to phase down the network more smoothly and affordably.

Energy revolution The UK is undertaking an energy revolution: the goal of achieving lower carbon emissions is laudable but households will be at the sharp end of uncertainty and shifting prices for at least the next

Hybrid role Hybrid systems also make installation much easier as it’s more feasible to retain existing radiators (depending on the age of the system). This not only saves costs but reduces disruption and makes the installation quicker.

Another benefit of the hybrid approach is that homes with combi boilers don’t have to find space for a hot water cylinder, which is often the case with a heat pump-only approach.

In addition, the gas boiler can help to meet heating needs in older homes that are harder to insulate to modern standards.

This approach makes heating more affordable and also ensures that domestic heating systems are adaptable to the evolving energy landscape. n

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | HYBRID HEATING

Hybrid heating:

a missed opportunity?

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he omission of hybrid heating systems in key policies to help the UK transition to clean heat could be a missed opportunity.

Gemserv’s white paper, Unlocking the Power of Heat Pumps with Hybrid Installations, commissioned

by Baxi, sets out a series of recommendations to roll out the technology more widely. It includes insights from consumer research, interviews with industry and academic experts, and economic analysis.

Respondents were asked whether being able to keep a gas boiler alongside a heat pump in a hybrid system would increase or decrease their interest in switching. Nearly 1 in 10 said this would greatly increase their likelihood of switching, 32% said it would increase somewhat and 49% said it would stay the same.

Upfront costs The report also highlighted that, given that many UK households will have to decarbonise their home heating system to support net zero, hybrids are the most cost-effective way for a heating system to lower carbon emissions.

Upfront costs are one of the main barriers to heat pump uptake, and so hybrids can provide a stepping stone to low-carbon technology at a lower cost than a standalone heat pump.

The report sets out four policy recommendations: • Make hybrid systems available under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme • Increase the credit for hybrids through the Clean Heat

Market Mechanism (see also page 28) • Including hybrids in upcoming changes to the Home Energy Model (HEM), which will replace the current SAP methodology, and • Rebalance the disparity of cost between electricity and gas to make low-carbon heat more affordable.

Jeff House, External Affairs and Policy director at Baxi, says: “There has been no shortage of ambition to decarbonise heat in the UK. “However, we wanted to commission this report to demonstrate that there is a real missed opportunity when it

comes to including hybrid systems within these policies.

“While heat pumps, whether deployed individually or at the heart of heat networks, will be one of the key mass-market drivers of decarbonised heat, we have a responsibility to ensure a balanced and equitable transition in line with consumer needs.

“A hybrid system offers advantages as a transitional technology, not only in terms of overcoming some technical barriers to make them more cost effective in difficult-todecarbonise homes, but also for energy system flexibility and resilience.” ■

The Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA) has called for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) to be revamped to encourage smaller installer companies to take part.

A Freedom of Information request

by EUA to Ofgem showed that onethird of installations have been carried out by just 10 companies, of which Octopus Energy is the biggest.

Alpha also wants hybrids to be included in the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, suggesting a grant of £2,500. Its managing director Andrea Carmeli says: “The research we carried out shows that 53% of UK billpayers would likely take advantage of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme if hybrids were included.”

Andrea adds that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in its current form is not a big enough incentive for homes to move to renewable heating technologies.

Alpha’s research in 2024 found that despite 74% of household billpayers claiming they care about the carbon footprint of their home, only 38% would be likely to opt for a non fossil fuel-based system. Cost was the main barrier to changing to a more sustainable heating appliance.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 37

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

Legislative, Normative & Informative

The Gas Safe Register Legislation & Standards Document List Date issued: 1 January 2025

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

38 January/February 2025

Gas Safe Register to assess compliance.

Finally, the remaining listings provide details of links to other available information that is considered useful to help registered businesses comply with their obligations and assist them in carrying out their day-today 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 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: •B ritish and European Standards (BSI) • I nstitution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) •L iquid Gas UK (formerly known as UKLPG).

One standard is published by National Caravan Council (NCC).

3. Documents under review If it is known that the threemonth 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: •B ritish and European Standards (BSI) https:// standardsdevelopment. bsigroup.com (registration required) • I nstitution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) www.igem. org.uk/technical-standards.html 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.

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

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 7 September 2020 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 1998 as amended & applied by the Gas Safety (Installation, Use and management) (Application) Order 2021 (As applied to Isle of Man) The Health & Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 2006 As Amended Version – May 2016 Safe work with Gas Systems & Appliances, Approved Code of Practice – Health & Safety at work (Jersey) Law, 1989 – 1st February 2021 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) (AMD 2023) The Gas Safety (Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 The Gas Safety (Rights of Entry) Regulations 1996 (as applied to Great Britain) The Gas (Northern Ireland) Order 1996, Schedule 5 (Powers of Entry, etc) 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) 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 Regulations &c.

(Amendments) (Wales) Regulations 2013 Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations 2004 Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2010 Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2011 Building (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Scotland) Regulations 2013 Building (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2022 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) 2016 The Construction (Design & Management) Regulations 2003 (As applied to Isle of Man) Building Control (Approved Documents) (No. 2) Order 2019 (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 2024 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/categories/planningand-building-control/

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 Volume 1: Dwellings F: Ventilation Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings G: Sanitation, hot water safety & water efficiency (2016 edition) J: Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L: Conservation of fuel and power – Volume 1: Dwellings L: Conservation of fuel and power – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings Second-tier documents to the Building Regulations – England 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: Dwellinghouses B: Fire Safety – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellinghouses F: Ventilation – Volume 1: Dwellings F: Ventilation – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings G: Sanitation, hot water safety & water efficiency (2018 edition) J: Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems L: Conservation of fuel and power – Volume 1: Dwellings L: Conservation of fuel and power – Volume 2: Buildings other than dwellings Second-tier documents to the Building Regulations – Wales Code for Sustainable Homes & Technical Guide December 2014

Building Energy Performance Assessment

TECHNICAL

7: LEGISLATION

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 F1: 2022 – Conservation of fuel & power in dwellings DFP Technical Booklet F2: 2022 – Conservation of fuel & power in buildings other than dwellings DFP Technical Booklet K: 2012 – Ventilation 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 (2022 Edition) F – Ventilation (2022 Edition) J – Combustion Appliances & Fuel Storage Systems (2022 Edition) L1 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Dwellings (2022 Edition) L2 – Conservation of Fuel & Power in Buildings other than Dwellings (2022 Edition) Building Energy Performance Assessment

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 39

>

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

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 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 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 L153 – 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

40 January/February 2025

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 – Workplace 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 (rev5) – Manage asbestos in buildings: A brief guide INDG370 (rev1) – Controlling Fire and explosion risks in the workplace – A brief guide to the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) 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 Guidelines on ventilation, thermal comfort and indoor air quality in schools LAQM.TG(22) Local Air Quality Management – Technical Guidance CAIS10 (Revision 3) – Ventilation of kitchens in catering establishments

CAIS23 (Revision 3) – Gas safety in catering and hospitality Note 3: Further asbestos-related guidance is at: www.hse.gov.uk/ asbestos/information.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

9: GAS INDUSTRY STANDARDS British & European Standards BS 4163: 2021 + A1: 2022 Health and safety for design and technology in schools and similar establishments. Code of practice BS 5440-1: 2023 Chimneys, flue pipes and ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases). Design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of chimneys.

Specification BS 5440-2: 2023 Chimneys, flue pipes and ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases). Installation and maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances. Specification BS 5546: 2010 Specification for installation and maintenance of gas-fired water-heating appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net

PD 54823: 2016 Guidance for the design, commissioning and maintenance of LPG systems in small craft BS 5864: 2019 Installation and maintenance of gas-fired ducted air heaters of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (2nd and 3rd family gases). Specification BS 5871-1: 2005 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/ back boilers and decorative fuel-effect gas appliances. Gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers and heating stoves (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 5871-2: 2005 Specification for the installation and 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 and fire/back boilers (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 5871-3: 2005 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/ back boilers and decorative fuel effect gas appliances. Decorative fuel effect gas appliances of heat input not exceeding 20kW (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 5871-4: 2007 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/ back boilers and decorative fuel effect gas appliances. Independent gas-fired flueless fires, convector heaters and heating stoves of nominal heat input not exceeding 6kW (net) (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 6172: 2010 + A1 2017 Specification for the installation, servicing and maintenance of domestic gas cooking appliances (2nd and 3rd family gases).

Specification BS 6173: 2020 Installation and maintenance of gas-fired catering appliances for use in all types of catering establishments (2nd and 3rd family gases). Specification BS 6230: 2011 Specification for installation of gas-fired forced convection air heaters for commercial and industrial space heating (2nd and 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. Low pressure (2nd family gases). Under review BS 6400-2: 2018 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation, maintenance and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h. Medium pressure (2nd family gases).

Under review BS 6400-3: 2007 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h. Low and medium pressure (3rd family gases)

BS EN 751-3: 2022 + A1: 2023 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases and hot water. Unsintered PTFE tapes and PTFE strings BS EN 1775: 2007 Gas supply.

Gas pipework for buildings.

Maximum operating pressure less than or equal to 5 bar. Functional recommendations BS EN 12327: 2012 Gas infrastructure. Pressure testing, commissioning and decommissioning procedures.

Functional requirements BS EN 50292: 2023 Electrical apparatus for the detection of carbon monoxide in domestic premises, caravans and boats.

Guide on the selection, installation, use and maintenance BS EN 15001-1: 2023 Gas Infrastructure. Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5 bar for industrial installations and greater than 5 bar for industrial and non-industrial installations. Detailed functional requirements for design, materials, construction, inspection and testing BS EN 15001-2: 2023 Gas supply systems. Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5 bar for industrial installations and greater than 5 bar for industrial and non-industrial installations. Detailed functional requirements for commissioning, operation and maintenance 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 BS EN 1749: 2020 Classification of gas appliances according to the method of supplying combustion air and of evacuation of the combustion products (types) BS EN 1949: 2021 Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers Documents (IGEM) IGE/UP/1 Edition 2 Strength testing/tightness testing/direct purging of industrial and commercial gas installations. Under review IGE/UP/1A Edition 2 Strength/ tightness testing/purging of small, low pressure industrial & commercial installations.

Under review IGEM/UP/1B Edition 3 Tightness testing and direct purging of small Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Air, NG and LPG installations. Under review

IGEM/UP/1C 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. Under review IGEM/UP/3 Edition 3 Gas fuelled spark ignition and dual-fuel engines.

Under review IGEM/UP/4 Edition 4 Commissioning of gas fired plant on industrial & commercial premises IGEM/UP/6 Edition 3 Application of compressors to natural gas fuel systems IGE/UP/7 Edition 2 with amendments October 2008 Gas installations in timber framed and light steel framed buildings Note 7: IGE/UP/7 – Edition 2 with amendments is available free at: www.igem.org.uk/resource/ ige-up-7-edition-2-a-2008-gasinstallations-in-timber-framed-andlight-steel-framed-buildings.html IGE/UP/9 Edition 3 Application of Gas systems to Gas turbines and supplementary and auxiliary fired burners IGEM/UP/10 Edition 4 with amendments March 2016 & February 2017 Installation of flued gas appliances in industrial and commercial premises IGEM/UP/11 Edition 3 Gas installations for educational establishments IGEM/UP/12 Edition 3 Application of burners and controls to gas fired process plant IGEM/UP/16 Edition 2 with Amendments November 2023 – Design for natural gas installations on industrial and commercial premises with respect to DSEAR IGEM/UP/17 Edition 2 Shared chimney and flue systems for domestic gas appliances IGEM/UP/18 Gas installations for vehicle repair and body shops IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Design & application of interlock devices/ associated systems in gas appliance installations in catering IGEM/UP/19 Edition 2 Supplement 1 Guidance for gas engineers to the application of relevant sections of IGEM/UP/19 in catering establishments. Available free at: www.igem.org.uk/asset/ BA6EE0A4-1BCC-4F41B57B038C12C14A51 IGEM/GL/8 Edition 4 Reporting and investigation of gas-related incidents IGE/GL/9 Guidance for large gas consumers in dealing with natural gas supply emergencies. Available free at: www.igem.org.uk/resource/ igem-gl-9.html IGE/TD/4 Edition 5 Polyethylene (PE) and steel gas services and services pipework.

IGEM/G/1 Edition 2 Defining the end of the Network IGEM/G/4 Edition 2 Definitions for the gas industry. Under review IGEM/G/5 Edition 3 with amendments April 2023 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings.

Under review IGEM/G/6 Edition 2 Gas supplies to mobile dwellings IGEM/G/7 Risk assessment techniques IGEM/G/10 Non-return valves IGEM/G/11 Edition 2 with amendments July 2022 and June 2024 The Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP) Note 8: IGEM/G/11 Edition 2 is available free at: www.igem.org.uk/ resource/igem-g-11-edition-2-gasindustry-unsafe-situationsprocedure.html IGEM/G/11 Supplement 1 Responding to domestic CO alarm activations/reports of fumes after attendance by the emergency service provider or the Liquid Petroleum Gas supplier Note 9: IGEM/G/11 Supplement 1 is available free at www.igem.org. uk/resource/igem-g-11supplement-1-responding-todomestic-co-alarm-activationsreports-of-fumes.html IGEM/G/13 with Amendments August 2023 – Domestic supply capacity and operating pressure at the outlet of the meter Note 10: IGEM/G/13 is available free at www.igem.org.uk/resource/ igem-g-13-domestic-supplycapacity-and-operating-pressureat-the-outlet-of-the-meter.html IGE/GM/4 Edition 3 Flow metering practices. Inlet pressures exceeding 38 bar and not exceeding 100 bar IGE/GM/5 Edition 4 Electronic gas meter volume conversion systems.

Under review IGEM/GM/6 Edition 3 Nondomestic 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 IGEM/GM/8 – Part 1 Edition 2 Design IGEM/GM/8 – Part 2 Edition 2 Location, housings and compounds IGEM/GM/8 – Part 3 Edition 2 Fabrication, installation, testing and commissioning IGEM/GM/8 – Part 4 Edition 2 Operation and maintenance IGEM/GM/8 – Part 5 Edition 2 Notices and labels IGEM/IG/1 Edition 2 Standards of Training in Gas Work

TECHNICAL

BS 6644: 2011 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas-fired hot water boilers of rated inputs between 70kW (net) & 1.8MW (net) (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 6798: 2014 Specification for selection, installation, inspection, commissioning, servicing and maintenance of gas-fired boilers of rated input not exceeding 70kW net. Under review 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 and maintenance of gas-fired overhead radiant heaters for industrial and commercial heating (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 7624: 2004 Installation and maintenance of domestic direct gas-fired tumble dryers of up to 6kW heat input (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 7671: 2018 + A3: 2024 Requirements for Electrical Installations 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 and other premises and 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 and carbon dioxide levels and the determination of combustion performance BS 8313: 1997 Code of practice for accommodation of building services in ducts BS 8446: 2020 Installation and maintenance of open-flued, non-domestic gas-fired laundry appliances. Specification 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 and 3rd family gases and hot water.

Anaerobic jointing compounds BS EN 751-2: 1997 Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases and hot water.

Non-hardening jointing compounds

> www.gassaferegister.co.uk 41

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER

Note 11: IGEM/IG/1 Edition 2 is

> available free at:

www.igem.org.uk/resource/ igem-ig-1-ed-2-standards-oftraining-in-gas-work.html IGEM/IG/1 Supplement 1 Non-domestic training specification Note 12: IGEM/IG/1 Supplement 1 is available free at: www.igem.org.uk/resource/ igem-ig-1-supplement-1-nondomestic-training-specification.html IGEM/SR/25 Edition 2 Hazardous area classification of natural gas installations. Under review IGEM/SR/29 Edition 2 Dealing with gas escapes IGEM/H/1 with amendments June 2022 and July 2023 Reference Standard for low pressure hydrogen utilisation Note 13: IGEM/H/1 is available free at: www.igem.org.uk/resource/ igem-h-1-with-amendments-june2022-reference-standard-for-lowpressure-hydrogen-utilisation.html Liquid Gas UK Codes of Practice (CoP) UKLPG – LPG Technical Fundamentals CoP 1 Part 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Design, installation and Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground (October 2017) CoP 1 Part 2 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Vapour Off-take Small Bulk Propane Installations (March 2021) CoP 1 Part 3 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed installations – Examination & Inspection (April 2020) CoP 1 Part 4 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/ Mounded LPG Storage Vessels (January 2021) CoP 7 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges (2021) CoP 17 Purging LPG Vessels and Systems (August 2021) including November 2005 Amendment CoP 22 Including Amd 1 Design Installation and Testing of LPG Piping Systems (Updated 2021) CoP 24 Part 3 Use of LPG Cylinders – Use of LPG for Commercial Catering Events, Street Food and Mobile Catering (September 2017) CoP 25 LPG Central Storage and Distribution Systems for Multiple Consumers (June 2018) CoP 32 LPG systems in Leisure Accommodation Vehicles and Road Vehicles with Habitation – Post Delivery Inspection, Commissioning and Maintenance (December 2020) CoP 33 Use of LPG cylinders (July 2023) (Replaces COP 24 – Part 1/5/6) GN 2 A guide for Cabinet Heaters Servicing (March 2002)

42 January/February 2025

10: OTHER INFORMATIVE DOCUMENTS AND USEFUL REFERENCES

11: ACCESS TO INDUSTRY STANDARDS FROM GAS SAFE REGISTER

Liquid Gas UK Consumer Guidance Sheets (CGS) CGS 01 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 and Documentation CGS 28 Safe Use of Propane and Butane Cylinders and Cartridges CGS 37 Guidance for Private Ownership and Filling of ‘Freestanding’ Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) Cylinders CGS 39 Regulators – Safe Use Note 14: Liquid Gas UK Consumer Guidance Sheets (CGS) are available at: www.liquidgasuk.org/ domestic/consumer-guidancesheets

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 businesses.

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: 2023 Chimneys, flue pipes and ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases). Design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of chimneys.

Specification BS 5440-2: 2023 Chimneys, flue pipes and ventilation for gas appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases). Installation and maintenance of ventilation provision for gas appliances. Specification BS 5546: 2010 Specification for installation and maintenance of gas-fired water-heating appliances of rated input not exceeding 70kW net PD 54823: 2016 Guidance for the design, commissioning, and maintenance of LPG systems on small craft BS 5864: 2019 Installation and maintenance of gas-fired ducted air heaters of rated input not exceeding 70kW net (2nd and 3rd family gases). Specification BS 5871-1: 2005 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/ back boilers and decorative fuel-effect gas appliances. Gas fires, convector heaters, fire/back boilers and heating stoves (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 5871-2: 2005 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/ back boilers and decorative fuel-effect gas appliances. Inset live fuel-effect gas fires of heat input not exceeding 15kW and fire/back boilers (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 5871-3: 2005 Specification for the installation and maintenance of gas fires, convector heaters, fire/ back boilers and decorative fuel effect gas appliances. Decorative fuel-effect gas appliances of heat input not exceeding 20kW (net) (2nd and 3rd family gases)

Other Industry Procedures/ Documents DW/172 Specification for kitchen ventilation systems 2nd Edition (incorporates addendum April 2020) IGEM/G/11 Edition 2 with amendments July 2022 and June 2024 The Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP) This can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in or the IGEM website at: www.igem. org.uk/resource/igem-g-11edition-2-gas-industry-unsafesituations-procedure.html All Technical Bulletins For further information see TB 1000.

These can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in All Gas Safe Register Safety Alerts These can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in All Gas Safe Register Industry Standard Updates These can be viewed by logging into your online account at: www. gassaferegister.co.uk/sign-in Note 15: Gas Safe registered businesses can find up-to-date manufacturer’s instructions/ information for a wide range of heating appliances, notably boilers and warm air heating appliances, on the HHIC website. For further information go to: installersfirst. co.uk/register

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

Specification BS 6173: 2020 Installation and maintenance of gas-fired catering appliances for use in all types of catering establishments (2nd and 3rd family gases). Specification BS 6230: 2011 Specification for installation of gas-fired forced convection air heaters for commercial and industrial space heating (2nd and 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. Low pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-2: 2018 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation, maintenance and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h. Medium pressure (2nd family gases) BS 6400-3: 2007 Specification for installation, exchange, relocation and removal of gas meters with a maximum capacity not exceeding 6m3/h. Low and medium pressure (3rd family gases) BS 6644: 2011 Specification for Installation and maintenance of gas-fired hot water boilers of rated inputs between 70kW (net) and 1.8MW (net) (2nd and 3rd family gases) 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 and maintenance of gas-fired overhead radiant heaters for industrial and commercial heating (2nd and 3rd family gases) BS 7624: 2004 Installation and maintenance of domestic direct gas-fired tumble dryers of up to 6kW heat input (2nd and 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

Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers Documents (IGEM) IGEM/UP/1 Strength testing/ tightness testing/direct purging of industrial and commercial gas installations IGEM/UP/1A Strength/tightness testing/purging of small, low pressure industrial & commercial installations IGEM/UP/1B Tightness testing and direct purging of small Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Air, NG and LPG installations (with Amendments October 2012) IGEM/UP/1C Strength testing, tightness testing and 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 and commercial premises IGEM/UP/6 Application of compressors to natural gas fuel systems IGEM/UP/7 Gas installations in timber framed and light steel framed buildings. See Note 7 IGEM/UP/9 Application of Gas 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 DSEAR IGEM/UP/17 Shared chimney and flue systems for domestic gas appliances IGEM/UP/18 Gas installations for vehicle repair and body shops IGEM/UP/19 Design & application of interlock devices/associated systems in gas appliance installations in catering IGEM/GL/8 Reporting and investigation of gas-related incidents IGEM/GL/9 Guidance for large gas consumers in dealing with natural gas supply emergencies. Available free at: www.igem.org.uk/resource/ igem-gl-9.html IGEM/TD/4 Polyethylene (PE) and steel gas services and service pipework IGEM/G/1 Defining the end of the Network IGEM/G/4 Definitions for the gas industry IGEM/G/5 Gas in multi-occupancy buildings IGEM/G/6 Gas supplies to mobile dwellings IGEM/G/11 Gas Industry Unsafe Situations Procedure (GIUSP).

Available free at: www.igem.org.uk/ resource/igem-g-11-edition-2-gasindustry-unsafe-situationsprocedure.html IGEM/G/11 Supplement 1 Responding to domestic CO alarm activations/reports of fumes after attendance by the emergency service provider or the Liquid Petroleum Gas supplier.

Available free at: www.igem.org.uk/ resource/igem-g-11-supplement-1responding-to-domestic-co-alarmactivations-reports-of-fumes.html

IGEM/G/13 Domestic supply capacity and operating pressure at the outlet of the meter.

Available free at: www.igem.org.uk/ resource/igem-g-13-domesticsupply-capacity-and-operatingpressure-at-the-outlet-of-the-meter. html IGEM/GM/4 Flow metering practices. Inlet pressure exceeding 38 bar and not exceeding 100 bar IGEM/GM/5 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. Design. Flow rate exceeding 6m3h-1 & inlet pressure up to and not exceeding 38 bar IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 2 Non-domestic meter installations. Location, housings and compounds for flow rate exceeding 6m3h-1 and inlet pressure up to and not exceeding 38 bar IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 3 Non-domestic meter installations. Fabrication, installation, testing and commissioning for flow rate exceeding 6m3h-1 and inlet pressure up to and not exceeding 38 bar IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 4 Non-domestic meter installations. Operation and maintenance for flow rate exceeding 6m3h-1 and inlet pressure up to and not exceeding 38 bar IGEM/GM/8 – Pt 5 Non-domestic meter installations. Notices and labels for flow rate exceeding 6m3h-1 and inlet pressure up to and not exceeding 38 bar

CoP 22 Design Installation and Testing of LPG Piping Systems (Updated 2021) CoP 24 Part 3 Use of LPG cylinders – Use of LPG for Commercial Catering Events, Street Food and Mobile Catering (September 2017) CoP 25 LPG Central Storage and Distribution Systems for Multiple Consumers (June 2018) CoP 32 LPG systems in Leisure Accommodation Vehicles and Road Vehicles with Habitation – Post Delivery Inspection, Commissioning and Maintenance (December 2020) CoP 33 Use of LPG Cylinders (July 2023) (Replaces CoP 24 part 1/5/6) GN 2 A guide to Cabinet Heaters Servicing (March 2002) ■

Liquid Gas UK Codes of Practice (CoP) CoP 1 Part 1 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Design, installation and Operation of Vessels Located Above Ground (October 2017) CoP 1 Part 2 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Vapour Off-take Small Bulk Propane Installations (March 2021) CoP 1 Part 3 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed installations – Examination and Inspection (April 2020) CoP 1 Part 4 Bulk LPG Storage at Fixed Installations – Buried/ Mounded LPG Storage Vessels (January 2021) CoP 7 Storage of Full and Empty LPG Cylinders and Cartridges (2021) CoP 17 Purging LPG Vessels and Systems (August 2001) including November 2005 Amendment

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 43

TECHNICAL

BS 7967-5: 2010 Carbon monoxide in dwellings and other premises and 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 and carbon dioxide levels and the determination of combustion performance BS 8446: 2020 Installation and maintenance of open-flued, non-domestic gas-fired laundry appliances. Specification 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: 2023 Gas Infrastructure. Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5 bar for industrial installations and greater than 5 bar for industrial and non-industrial installations. Detailed functional requirements for design, materials, construction, inspection and testing BS EN 15001-2: 2023 Gas supply systems. Gas installation pipework with an operating pressure greater than 0.5 bar for industrial installations and greater than 5 bar for industrial and non-industrial installations. Detailed functional requirements for commissioning, operation and maintenance BS EN 1949: 2021 Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and 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

How accurate is your hourly rate?

Pricing underpins everything from how busy you are to stress levels and how much money you make. Gas Engineer Software looks at how to calculate an hourly rate you can use for just about anything.

Y

Gas Engineer Software Gas Engineer Software is an all-in-one software platform for UK heating and plumbing companies. Its easy-to-use job management software helps more than 6,000 companies schedule jobs, build quotes, send invoices, issue certificates and get paid faster, all at the click of a button. www. gasengineer software.co.uk

our hourly rate is one of the most useful numbers for pricing, forecasting – and even just understanding whether a job is worth your time.

But it has to consider more than how long you spend on a job and some standard prices.

All sorts of hidden costs crop up that can lead businesses astray if they’re not properly factored in. If you’ve ever underpriced a large or complex job or find yourself constantly in a rush, your hourly rate could be the problem.

Your hourly rate is the amount of money you charge your customer for a billable hour of work. The distinction is crucial because, as tradespeople, a significant portion of your time can be taken up by paperwork, admin and driving from one property to another. Your hourly rate should factor in all these elements.

How to calculate an hourly rate

1

Work out and add all your costs Add all your costs in a year, including but not limited to: fuel, MOTs and other vehicle costs, insurance, tools, software, employee salaries, marketing, utilities and tax.

You should also think about your future expenses.

This could be a new van, a replacement set of tools, or training courses: all of which are one-offs but can be broken down into yearly costs like the rest.

44 January/February 2025

2

Count your billable hours Calculate your billable hours each year. To start, deduct weekends, holidays and estimated sick days. It could look something like this: 365 – 102 (weekend days) – 9 (bank holidays) – 25 (holiday days) – 4 (guesstimated sick days) = 225.

You’ll also want to factor in how much time you spend on non-billable work. With a standard 8-hour workday, 225 working days equates to about 1,800 hours on the clock. But let’s say that, on average, only 60% of your company’s time is spent at customer’s properties.

This would mean you only have about 1,080 billable hours.

3

Add your markup So far, we’ve calculated expenses and billable hours.

Dividing these numbers can give you a great ‘survival rate’, but an hourly rate should also factor in how much profit you want to make.

All you need to do is add this figure as an expense to factor it into your calculation.

Remember that this number excludes any material costs and mark-up, as these will be added on a job-by-job basis.

4

Putting it all together The last step is to finish the calculator. Take your total costs and desired profit for the year and then divide by the number of billable hours. n

How you can use this hourly rate You can use different pricing strategies to price jobs.

However, an accurate hourly rate with good time estimates is one of the easiest ways. This method allows for reliable pricing that’s transparent for your customers (even more so if you note how you worked out the price) and profitable for you.

Even if you prefer an alternative pricing strategy, an hourly rate is still useful for estimating a job’s profitability.

It’s a good idea to review your prices at least annually and keep an eye on what your competitors are charging. This will help you accommodate inflation and gauge where your business stands.

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | YOUR BUSINESS

Apprenticeships: take another look Apprenticeships are a pathway to sustainable growth for your business, says Mark Krull from Logic4training, who addresses some common misconceptions.

C

ontrary to common belief, apprenticeships are not age-restricted or limited to young people without academic qualifications. They are open to anyone aged 16 or older, so employers can hire school-leavers, career-changers or even upskill existing staff.

Build your business from the ground up Apprenticeships provide a flexible solution, allowing businesses to nurture new talent.

A steady supply of new entrants ensures strong foundations and experienced workers can upskill to new technologies, such as air source heat pumps.

Mature apprentices aged 19-25+ often bring transferable skills, life experience and a strong work ethic that make them valuable contributors from day one.

Employer responsibilities Hiring an apprentice comes with responsibilities: • On-the-job training – provide hands-on experience under the guidance of skilled mentors.

• Off-the-job training – enrol apprentices in the relevant training courses delivered during normal working hours. Monitor progress regularly and provide constructive feedback and encouragement to support skills development.

• Clear employment terms – apprentices are entitled to the same rights as other employees, including fair pay, paid holiday and sick leave.

Employers should provide a formal contract that sets out working conditions clearly.

• Safe working environment – ensure all work adheres

“ Mature apprentices often bring transferable skills and a strong work ethic.”

Funded training Government money can cover up to 100% of training and assessment costs for small businesses and sole traders. Employers must pay the national minimum wage, which is at a reduced rate for apprentices during their first year of training. Older apprentices may have higher wage requirements but they often bring valuable experience and increased productivity.

to industry standards, best practice and health and safety regulations.

Specialist training providers can provide valuable support with onboarding, completing paperwork and through every stage of the journey.

The right apprentice Start by identifying areas in your business where an apprentice could make a significant difference. Are you looking to

grow your business in a specific niche, fill skills gaps or provide experienced workers with the capacity to upskill? Once you’ve identified your needs, your local training provider can offer support and may even have pre-screened candidates ready for placement.

Apprenticeships are not just training programmes: they are strategic investments in the future of your business. n

Logic4training has just launched its gas engineering apprenticeship programme, pairing employers with 19+ apprentices and offering tailored support. For more information visit: https://apprenticeships. logic4training.co.uk

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 45

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Fife hydrogen network will start this year SGN has completed construction of the world’s first domestic hydrogen gas network, in Levenmouth, Fife.

The H100 Fife project will see hydrogen gas created using renewable electricity

from a local 7MW offshore wind turbine flow through the new 8.4km network when it goes live this year. Residents can choose to join Scotland’s first green hydrogen community by signing up

H100 Fife Distribution manager Max Biret with a hydrogen pipe.

The pipe has a blue line to differentiate it from natural gas

to SGN’s H100 Fife trial.

Participants in H100 Fife will still have boilers and radiators: the key difference is that hydrogen doesn’t produce any carbon when it burns.

H100 Fife Distribution Manager Max Biret said: “Having this new network in place means we can start converting customers to green hydrogen once our production and storage site is ready.

We’re still welcoming more customers to join.”

SGN is upskilling gas engineers to connect the homes taking part in the trial to the new hydrogen gas mains.

The company is also partnering with Fife College to open the UK’s first hydrogen training facility in early 2025.

Existing Gas Safe engineers will be trained at the facility on how to fit new hydrogen appliances.

The project is providing critical evidence to inform future low-carbon policy decisions for Scotland and the UK, expected in 2026.

£5 million government boost for Ideal heat pumps Ideal Heating and Gledhill have received more than £5 million from the government to accelerate the production of heat pumps in the UK. The funding, from the government’s Heat Pump Investment Accelerator competition, will go to increasing the production capacity of monobloc heat pump units and controls at Ideal Heating’s site in Hull as well as hot water cylinders at Gledhill in Blackpool.

The two businesses have

been awarded almost £5.2 million and have pledged a further investment of more than £6.8 million in heat pump production. The funding and investment will enable the production of 115,000 air source heat pumps and indoor controls in Hull every year by 2030, and 120,000 pre-plumbed hot water cylinders in Blackpool.

Jason Speedy, Ideal Heating’s chief operations officer, said: “This funding is a

vote of confidence in our business and our position at the forefront of the industry’s move to low-carbon heating solutions.

“It will enable us to accelerate our plans for heat pump production and complements the broader programme of investment across our operations as we lead the industry to a greener, low-carbon future.”

Ideal Heating launched its first heat pump production line in Hull in August 2023.

Heat network zone pilot cities named Six towns and cities have been chosen to develop the country’s first heat network zones. The schemes in Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport, Sheffield and two in London will receive a share of £5.8 million in government funding to develop the zones, with construction expected to start from 2026.

Heat network zones use data to identify the best locations and help to plan and build the technology at scale. They require suitable buildings, such as hotels and large offices, to connect when it is cost effective for them to do so.

The new schemes will provide heating using “trailblazing sources”.

Excess heat from data centres will provide heating in the Old Oak and Park Royal Development in London, while the system planned in Leeds will take heat from a nearby glass factory to warm connected buildings.

The six towns and cities are pilot schemes that will inform the government’s plan to accelerate the delivery of heat networks across England in areas where zones are likely to be designated in the future.

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 47

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REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS

productupdate

Stay up to date at: www.registered gasengineer.co.uk

the latest launches from around the industry

50 Get extra with Tado X 50 Digital boiler diagnosis from City Plumbing 50 Grant’s Mag One Duo magnetic filter 50 Hi to Bosch Commercial & Industrial’s HIU 51 Baxi revamps 400 combi boilers 51 Martindale Electric upgrades safety kit 51 SpiroPure conditions systems water 51 Plumb Centre adds app and parts service

Vokèra launches Synergy boilers Synergy is a new mid-tier boiler from Vokèra by Riello. With six models – three combi and three system variants – it has a 1:10 modulation ratio, for lower gas consumption and reduced emissions.

The Synergy range prioritises features that simplify every step of the installation process, says the company.

The universal pipework (DIN) layout allows for easy boiler replacements.

A new condensate siphon and safety valve manifold further optimise installation and simplify maintenance. It comes with a seven-year warranty.

As ‘hybrid-ready’, Synergy can integrate into multi-energy systems through the Hi, Comfort platform. www.vokera.co.uk/tradeprofessionals/boilers/synergy

Viessmann unveils light commercial heat pump Viessmann Climate Solutions UK’s 40kW air source heat pump is suitable for larger properties, public-sector applications and small- to mid-size commercial installations.

The Vitocal 250-A Pro provides heating and cooling and has a coefficient of performance (CoP) of 5.32 at A7/W35 (outside air temperature 7°C and DHW 35°C). It is energy rated A+++ for both low and medium-temperature applications.

Its compact, linear appearance makes it easy to blend into surrounding architecture and landscaping. Its maximum flow temperature of 70°C means it can be used with existing radiator systems in many cases, making it ideal for larger modernisation projects. Weather-compensated remote monitoring and control system provide simpler operation and maintenance.

The Vitocal 250-A Pro can be operated in bivalent or monovalent modes. www.viessmann.co.uk

Navien UK celebrates first decade Navien is marking 10 years in the UK. Since the South Korean boiler and heating appliance manufacturer entered the market in 2014, it says it has provided a diverse range of heating appliances and cutting-edge technologies, designed with installers and their customers in mind.

UK managing director Carl Park says: “When we first entered the UK heating sector, we had a vision to provide installers and homeowners with high-quality, efficient and

environmentally conscious heating and hot water solutions.”

The first product designed for the UK was the NCB CE boiler. Since then, the boiler range has expanded to include the NCB ON combi with its advanced ON AI technology and Smart Plus controls.

The manufacturer has also designed and developed its LCB700 Blue Flame combi oil boiler, providing heating solutions in rural areas.

Carl adds: “Our success is

not just about the products we create but the relationships we’ve built with installers.

“We have always believed in going beyond simply supplying industry-leading products to providing installers with the tools, training and guidance they need in their day-to-day jobs. Looking ahead, we’re focused on driving the transition to a more sustainable future with new product launches – including our first heat pump, which will enter the UK market in 2025.” www.gassaferegister.co.uk 49

>

productupdate >

Get extra with Tado X

The Tado X for Professionals range of smart heating products includes a wireless and wired smart thermostat, smart radiator thermostat, heat pump optimiser and wireless temperature sensor. All come with an extended 10-year warranty.

Installers can also unlock the Tado X rewards programme, with offers from trade partners, expert training and dedicated real-time phone support.

The company’s channel director John Steven says: “We want to ensure installers can also benefit… by being able to offer their customers an extra incentive with a warranty extension that cannot be beaten.

“Tado X for Professionals products have the latest smart home technology with Matter and Thread and offer offline installation and scheduling, in addition to smart features of the Tado eco-system that can save customers on average 22% on their heating bills.” installers-shop. tado.com

Capture more debris with Grant’s Mag One Duo magnetic filter Grant’s Mag One Duo is a universal filter that provides protection for traditional boiler and air source heat pump heating systems.

The filter supersedes the Vortex Mag One filter. It has a 12,000 gauss neodymium magnet to capture the magnetic and non-magnetic debris that circulates in a heating system.

50 January/February 2025

It’s straightforward to install, simple to clean and easy to drain, says Grant UK. It can be installed as part of a new heating system or retrofitted.

A 500-micron mesh gauze maximises the capture of non-ferrous debris. Using direct filtration rather than a bypass, the Mag One Duo ensures that 100% of the circulated water must pass through its filter cartridge, which increases the filtration levels.

National sales manager Andy Smith says: “The Mag One Duo is not only a solution for protecting a Vortex oil-fired boiler but it is also compatible with all Aerona heat pump systems.” www.grantuk.com

Digital boiler diagnosis service from City Plumbing City Plumbing’s new digital boiler diagnostic subscription suggests solutions to faults, along with recommending the parts needed to complete the job.

FaultFinder is suitable for any size of heating engineering business, from sole traders through to larger teams. If the boiler doesn’t have a visible fault code, the tool can still help: simply complete a symptoms questionnaire to get an instant diagnosis and the system can select from over 800 outcomes.

The diagnostic database can help engineers to diagnose and fix more than 13,000 gas, electric and oil boilers, including older models. Once the problem

has been identified, FaultFinder recommends the parts required to complete the job. The platform keeps a record of the fault report history and outcomes.

City Plumbing customers can get three months of free access. Subscription fees start from £9.99 a month for individual users.

Say hi to Bosch Commercial & Industrial’s HIU The Flow 8500 indirect heat interface unit (HIU) from Bosch Commercial & Industrial has been tested and registered under the BESA 2023 regime, which helps to shape the future of heat networks.

The Flow 8500 has an improved domestic hot water (DHW) response time, with new precision temperature sensors for high performance, accurate control and network efficiency.

Product engineer Tom Jallands says: “The Flow 8500 is assembled to the highest quality and utilises state-of-the-art manufacturing controls and assurance to ensure peace of mind for customers and residents.”

Pete Mills, Commercial & Technical Operations manager, adds: “The tougher targets of the BESA 2023 HIU Test Regime represent a real step forward for heat network efficiency.

“Any measures that can increase network efficiency and improve consumer comfort will be in demand and it is against this backdrop that we are so proud to announce the successful registration of our complete Flow 8500 HIU range.” www.bosch-industrial.com

REGISTERED GAS ENGINEER | PRODUCTS

Stay up to date at: www.registered gasengineer.co.uk

Baxi revamps 400 Electrical combi series to 2.1 safety kit Baxi has revamped its 400 series combi boiler range: the new 2.1 replaces the 400 Combi 2 range.

It includes a pressure gauge visible on the exterior case, in direct response to installer feedback. Manual LPG conversion means installers can switch between natural gas and LPG without additional kits. The Baxi Easy-Flue can be installed from inside the property and includes a multi-lip weather seal to protect the flue installation from rainwater ingress.

Other improvements include a compact casing with integrated pipes behind the void for neat upward pipework, a metal (magnetic) front cover and a pre-heated and siphonic condensate trap that helps prevent freezing.

The new range includes a higher 36kW model for improved flow rates of up to 15 litres per minute – suitable for bigger homes that demand greater output. The Baxi 400 2.1 comes with a five-year parts and labour warranty. www.baxi.co.uk

Condition the water in heating systems with SpiroPure SpiroPure conditions the water in heating or cooling systems, removing unwanted substances such as calcium and magnesium ions and salts.

Conditioning the water decreases its conductivity while increasing the pH value, helping to maintain system health, prevent corrosion and keep the system running efficiently.

The resin beads at the heart of SpiroPure are positively and negatively charged. They attract the unwanted ions in the water and exchange them with useful and safe ions. The resin beads change colour over time as they become depleted and replacement resin beads are available.

Rob Jacques, UK business unit director, says: “The practice of treating water for the system is becoming more widely adopted, especially given its inclusion and success across other parts of Europe as part of the VDI 2035 standard.”

SpiroPure is available for domestic and commercial systems, with Home Fill and Pro kits. www.spirotech.co.uk

upgraded Martindale Electric has updated its electrical safety kit for gas engineers, adding a EZ664 socket tester. The TB118KITB builds on its predecessor with more advanced testing capabilities, making it suitable for environments where safe electrical isolation is paramount.

The TB118KITB helps gas engineers meet the guidance of Technical Bulletin 118a: Safe to touch and/or safe isolation and proving electrically dead on low-voltage single-phase supplies (below 1000 volts).

The kit includes tools for

locking off electrical circuits and proving dead and the EZ664 socket tester allows for both socket testing and earth verification.

It has an easy-to-read display using three LEDs that indicate the measured earth loop impedance across six ranges, helping to ensure that circuits are safe and properly grounded. www.martindale-electric. co.uk

New app and improved parts service for Plumb Centre Plumb Centre has a new app to help you find and order parts.

It’s also increased the number of Parts Hubs nationwide to improve same-day availability in branch, enhanced its next-day delivery and increased stock.

Features in the app, on iOS and Android, include: • Finding parts – Use the diagrams to identify and buy parts, check stock availability and pay • Branch expertise – Contact experts and find directions to branches • Personalised experience – Check the status of orders, manage and pay your account, and manage invoices and statements. You can store your most ordered products and preferred branches.

The app also links to Plumb

Pro, the merchant’s membership and rewards scheme, so that you can redeem rewards and check cashback.

Stuart Morton, director of Parts at Plumb Centre, says: “The app, in combination with operational improvements around distribution and availability, is designed to make it easier than ever for customers to get the part they need.”

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 51

NATIONWIDE

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LONDON AND SOUTH EAST

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Oaklands Gas and Renewables Assessment Training Centre

Located at Oaklands College, Hatfield Road, St Albans (AL4 0JA) Oaklands Gas and Renewables Assessment Training Centre offers a comprehensive range of ACS training/assessments/ reassessments for the gas, plumbing and heating trades.

• Domestic Gas • LPG • HWSS / WRAS • Renewable Energy / Heat Pumps • New Entrants

Call us on: 01727 737797 Email: gascentrebooking@oaklands.ac.uk

EG Training Services Ltd - 3 Mulberry Court - Bourne Industrial Park Bourne Road - Crayford - DA1 4BF

SOUTH EAST

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Modern Training Centres & Highly Skilled Trainers Domestic Gas: Core & Appliances LPG: Core & Appliances Non-Domestic: Core & Appliances Changeover to Domestic, Non-Domestic & LPG Unvented & Vented Hot Water Systems & Water Regulations Air Source & Ground Source Heat Pumps Renewables Electrical Installation, Including 18th Edition, Testing & Inspecting Initial and Re-assessment

01444 870 860 / 02392 190 190 info@stevewillis.com

www.nescot.ac.uk

www.gassaferegister.co.uk 53

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LONDON AND SOUTH EAST

New Year Sale | New Year Sale | New Year Sale 25% off bookings made this January Choose from a wide range of training courses and assessments at our East Anglia Energy Academy: Plumbing

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EXTENDED HOURS AND SAFETY DUE TO COVID-19

Offering training and assessments in: BTAAC offer a full range of Domestic and Commercial Gas training and assessments in a well-equipped training facility at very competitive prices. · All ACS Domestic Gas – core + appliances ·All ACS Commercial Gas including CMDDA1 and BMP1 · Unvented Hot Water & Water Regs · Highly knowledgeable trainers with years of experience · Very friendly training environment

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Introductory Gas Training Courses (Commercial, Domestic & LPG) ACS Domestic Core & Appliances and CPA ACS Non-Domestic Core & Appliances ACS Commercial Catering, Mobile Catering & Appliances Swimming Pool Boilers ACS LPG Core & Appliances (incl Boats, RPH, LAV, PD, Caravans) LPG Generators OFTEC Oil Assessment & Training (OFT 50, 101, 102, 201, 105e, 600a) & Solid Fuel Un-vented & Vented Domestic Hot Water, Legionella and Water Regulations Gas Supervisor Courses and courses designed for your specific needs EAL Electrical Courses and Electrical Part P Fire Alarm BS5839 and Security Lighting BS 5266 Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Courses (Solar, Photovoltaic)

SOUTH WEST PENINSULAR TRAINING LTD Westover Trading Estate Langport, Somerset TA10 9RB Tel: 01458 253493 Email:info@swptraining.co.uk www.swptraining.co.uk

54 January/February 2025

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