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Gas Detection Service and Calibration

Fine for illegal fitter shows need for gas respect

An illegal gas fitter has been fined after leaving a family with a faulty boiler.

As any manager or homeowner who has fitted gas detection equipment in their workplace or residence will know, it is unwise to take chances when dealing with flammable and potentially fatal fumes.

When dealing with potentially fatal fumes it is important to have the right equipment.  There is a range of gas detection equipment on the Frontline Safety website suitable for many applications.  This includes the BW GasAlert Max XT II.

Some may therefore be dismayed to hear of one Morden gas fitter who was recently prosecuted by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) for operating illegally and endangering the lives of a family in Tooting, south London.

Westminster Magistrates' Court heard how Mussrat Ahamed installed an unsafe boiler at an address on Graveney Road after replacing the existing fitting.

The unregistered fitter left a total of 13 defects, including one that was classed as an "immediate danger" to life or property.

Mr Ahamed admitted to two breaches of the Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998 and was subsequently fined £2,000 and told to pay £1,000 in costs.

HSE inspector Saif Deen explained that unregistered installers represent a big risk to the homes and businesses they serve, with people exposed to "unacceptable risks that can prove fatal".

"This family's boiler had serious defects because Mr Ahamed lacked the appropriate skills to perform this work safely," the expert said.

"He knew he wasn't Gas Safe registered, and although he understood the legal requirement to be registered he was under the impression that the work he undertook didn't constitute gas work because he didn't tamper with the supply."

Meanwhile, the HSE also revealed that Cambridge instrument company Prior Scientific Instruments has been fined after a worker was exposed to chemicals which left him with irritation to his eyes, breathing difficulties, headaches and concentration difficulties.

Written by Chris Malone

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