There are many dangers associated with gas appliances and flues, but an alarming number of UK residents do not know this. Two of the most common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning are gas appliances or flues that are not installed or ventilated properly.

The lack of taste, colour, and scent combine to make the poisonous gas, carbon monoxide (CO), nearly impossible to detect. Some of the effects of carbon monoxide are stomach and chest pains, vomiting, tiredness, and even death. Carbon monoxide leaves the body quickly, and blood and breath tests used to determine the presence of carbon monoxide may be ineffective four hours after exposure to the gas.

Researchers at the University of London, under the direction of the HSE (Health and Safety Executive), revealed some startling statistics from a residential carbon monoxide study. One or more gas appliances were found to be defective in nearly 25% of homes in the study, and high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning was present in 8% of these homes. Nearly 50% of the residents in the study did not have adequate information about the health risks of carbon monoxide. Everyone living in a residence is at risk for a variety of ailments, paralysis, and death if basic gas safety rules are not followed. The lack of gas safety education is obvious; more than 60% of carbon monoxide-related deaths are the result of an improper response or the total lack of response to a gas appliance malfunction.

For gas appliance installations, repairs, safety checks, and maintenance, do not allow anyone except a CORGI-registered technician to perform the work. Only CORGI-registered service workers have the expertise and skills to safely and expertly complete a gas appliance job. Do not be tempted to hire any service technician for the recommended annual service checks for your gas appliances. Look for a CORGI-registered technician for this job, and use a qualified chimney sweep to give your flue a thorough cleaning every year.

The area around a gas appliance or flue must be well ventilated so the gas can burn completely. Keep objects off the appliances, do not block vents, and make sure there is plenty of fresh air circulating through the room. Poor ventilation is one of the most prevalent causes of residential carbon monoxide poisoning.

Quickly turn off any gas appliance you suspect is not functioning properly. Let fresh air into the area by opening windows and doors, and turn off the gas supply line if you know how. If there is soot or stains around an appliance, a pilot light that refuses to burn, or a yellow-orange flame, your appliance is not working correctly. For expert advice, ring the HSE Gas Safety Advice Line (0800 300 363) or the National Grid on the Gas Emergency (0800 111 999).

Popularity: 1% [?]