How To Ensure Your Team Is Up to Date With the Latest Commercial Gas Safety Standards
The pace of change and innovation in the world is staggering and advances can happen in the blink of an eye. This is why continuous recertification is of paramount importance, especially in industries that deal with dangerous and regulated substances or services.
According to Phil from Gastec Training “For commercial properties, gas safety standards are the way in which the government regulates that gas appliances and flues (the gas extracts systems) are maintained in a safe and working manner and that gas safety inspections happen regularly.” Without certification, the risk of gas leaks leading to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning or catastrophic gas explosion increases, putting everyone in the vicinity of the gas equipment in question.
What are Commercial Gas Safety Standards?
Commercial gas safety certificates (which are proof of up-to-date gas safety standards), sometimes known as CP12 or a commercial gas safety record form, are given to commercial property owners, self-employed people, and anyone responsible for gas equipment. These certificates are issued after gas safety checks are carried out by a Gas Safe registered engineer, ensuring that all the equipment is in working order and in safe condition.
Who Sets the Standards for Gas Safety Certification?
The standards for all gas safety certifications are set by the UK government in conjunction with the industry for the safest and most effective use of gas in the commercial and residential sectors. The Commercial Gas Safety Regulation Act of 1998 (amended in 2018) sets the standards and practices for natural gas as well as liquified petroleum gas (LPG), including the frequency of gas safety inspections, specifications about gas safety installation practices, the distribution of commercial catering gas safety certificates and all other installation and use regulations.
How Often Do You Need to Recertify Your Gas Safety Certification?
Commercial gas safety certifications last 12 months from the date of issue. However, depending on the type of commercial establishment you operate, there may be rules that are specific to your sector. For example, in the commercial or residential rental space, you cannot allow someone to adopt a new lease if the certificate is about to expire. The checks must be done within one year of the lease beginning. This means that you cannot have someone begin a lease without a certificate, even if the checks are going to happen soon.
Where Can You Get Certification?
Commercial certifications can only be received through an annual gas safety inspection performed by a Gas Safe Registered gas engineer, with a valid Gas Safe ID card. Health and safety standards require that their Gas Safe ID card must be up to date and valid to legally ensure that all commercial gas equipment is operating properly.
The Importance of Gas Safety Standards
Gas safety certification and the regulations around gas safety standards protect people and property from the dangers that are present when using gas equipment. These standards are evaluated regularly and implemented throughout the UK to ensure that gas equipment operates as safely and as effectively as possible.
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