Safety of gas appliances and carbon monoxide information
The Health and Safety Executive has produced guidance on carbon monoxide in domestic premises.
Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous gas with no taste, no colour and no smell. It can be produced when any fossil fuel such as coal, wood or natural gas is burned and there is not enough air supply. Carbon monoxide kills up to 20 people each year and many more are seriously injured. It can escape into your room if a gas appliance is not installed correctly or serviced regularly. That is why the law insists on a safety check every year. However, it is also a good idea to look for signs that carbon monoxide might be present.
- Check for signs of staining, sooting or discolouration on or around gas boilers, fires and water heaters.
- Check pilot lights and other gas flames that normally burn blue. If the flame changes to yellow or orange, it could mean that carbon monoxide is present.
- Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can often be confused with other ailments like flu or a hangover. They are:
- persistent headaches
- dizziness
- extreme tiredness
- sickness
- If these symptoms occur, particularly when using a gas heater or hot water appliance, stop using the appliance immediately and open doors and windows.
- Get the appliance checked by a British Gas engineer or another Gas Safe Registered Engineer. Alternatively, call National Grid Gas Emergency line on 0800 111 999.
- It might be an idea to consult a doctor as well.
- Ideally your landlord would have fitted carbon monoxide detectors in rooms with gas appliances. If you buy one yourself, make sure it’s an audible British Standard approved one.
The Health and Safety Executive has also produced guidance on the safety of domestic gas appliances for residents and the legal duties of landlords with regard to domestic gas appliances.
Under the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, landlords must have an annual gas safety check carried out on all gas appliances by a Gas Safe Registered Engineer. A copy of the current gas safety certificate must be provided to the licensing authority, and to every tenant. (See A guide to landlords' duties: Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998.)
Gas Safe has also produced a website with a useful section for students.