Gas Safety Register ID now required for gas repairs

A CHANGE in the law affecting homes and businesses with plans to have gas appliances serviced, upgraded, or installed, is being highlighted by West Somerset Council
From tomorrow, the Government is introducing the Gas Safe Register to replace the familiar CORGI gas registration system.
The Gas Safe Register is the official industry stamp for gas safety under the new scheme which is overseen by the Health and Safety Executive, the organisation responsible for regulating gas safety in Great Britain.
The council’s housing portfolio holder, Councillor Kate Kravis, said: “The Government has changed the legislation, and from April 1 anybody carrying out gas work within the scope of the regulations must be on the Gas Safe Register.
“The new law states that if somebody other than a Gas Safe registered engineer undertakes regulated gas work in your home, you could be risking the safety of your family and your property.
“Many contractors now registered with Gas Safe may not have had the chance to update their vans and literature, which may still display the CORGI symbol.
“However, public safety is paramount and we urge people to make certain by asking engineers to show their new Gas Safe identity badges.”
The new register will provide enhanced levels of service and clearly written rules of registration.
There will also be new services and benefits designed to improve the registration scheme and promote gas safety.
Gas Safe registered engineers are listed at http://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ or details can be found by calling 0800 408 550.
West Somerset building control manager Jayne Hall said: “Building control is all about ensuring public safety in homes, offices, and other buildings.
“It is important that people know about this change in legislation and contact Gas Safe if necessary.
“If you are considering any building or renovation work on a property, West Somerset’s building control team would be happy to advise you on any aspects that may need building control regulations.
“Initial advice is free and can save homeowners problems later on, especially when coming to sell.”