Contractor Competency

by | Mar 2, 2014 | Health & Safety

The recent double manslaughter prosecution of a gas fitter in Northern Ireland has heightened awareness among all employers and building owners as to their obligations in this area and the precautions that must be applied when maintaining boiler systems and engaging with maintenance contractors.

It is worth pointing out that the the prosecuted man himself did not install the boiler and flue that was the suject of this case, but was found guilty of the manslaughter of the two teenagers by virtue of deploying two inadequately qualified staff to conduct the works.

In addition to the 4 year prison sentence (of which 2 years were suspended), a fine of £19,000 was imposed for 19 separate health and safety offences relating to the incident that ultimately caused the death of two teenagers.

There are a few important points to remember:

  • It is illegal for anyone other than a Registered Gas Installer (RGI), to install and/or service your boiler.
  • Ensure your boiler is serviced annually by a fully qualified gas installer. Obtain a method statement and risk assessment for the works.
  • Install carbon monoxide alarms in locations where fuel burning appliances are present. Test them regularly.

Acacia Team

Acacia Team

More Blog Posts

Support Services in Facilities Management

  Site support services carry out some of the most important functions for our clients by being the eyes and ears on the ground. Site support services are carefully curated to match our...

read more

Acacia Evergreen & Wellbeing

Wellbeing at work is no longer a niche issue. Thanks to the pandemic wellbeing at work has gone mainstream and now covers a multitude of employee expectations from mental and physical health to...

read more

Our relationship with plastic

The problem with plastic is that we can’t live without it and its universal application needs a re-evaluation. The negative effects of plastic on our environment and human health are widely known....

read more
[ays_quiz id='1']
Share This