Gas appliances and flues can sometimes be dangerous to have in a home, but a large number of UK residents do not know this. A high risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is possible if a gas appliance or flue is improperly installed or not ventilated as required.
Since carbon monoxide (CO) does not have a smell, colour, or taste, it cannot be identified easily. People exposed to carbon monoxide may experience fatigue, pains in the chest or stomach, and vomiting, and sometimes the carbon monoxide can cause death. Tests that detect CO in the bloodstream need to be performed within four hours of exposure to the poisonous gas for an accurate diagnosis.
Results of a carbon monoxide study conducted by researchers at the University of London under the direction of the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) are quite alarming. Improperly operating gas appliances were found in about 25% of the homes, and 8% of these homes were classified as having a higher than average risk for dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Almost 50% of the residents included in the study did not know the hazards of CO. Knowing the basic safety rules for gas appliances is essential to keep your family and visitors safe from carbon monoxide poisoning and the possibility of illnesses, paralysis, and death. Considering the general lack of CO information, it is not surprising that over half of residential carbon monoxide poisonings are the result of residents taking inadequate action or not taking action at all.
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 the 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.
If you suspect your gas appliance is not operating correctly, turn it off immediately. Open any windows and doors in the area to allow fresh air to come into the room. Turn off the main gas supply line if possible. Signs of gas appliances that are not working properly include soot and stains around the appliances, pilot lights that will not remain lit, and a yellow-orange flame. For any questions, ring the National Grid on the Gas Emergency (0800 111 999) or HSEs Gas Safety Advice Line (0800 300 363).
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