Energy News

Rogue boiler installers endanger lives

Wednesday 4 January, 2012

By Martin Fagan

Thousands of people in danger of carbon monoxide poisoning from faulty boilers installed or maintained by “cowboys”, says GSR.

British lives are being put at risk by “cowboy” boiler installers, warns the Gas Safe Register (GSR).

According to the GSR, homeowners need to be more aware of the dangers of poorly fitted and badly maintained gas appliances, which can lead to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

In 2011, accidental carbon monoxide poisoning led to more than 50 deaths along with 4,000 people being hospitalised.

But the GSR believes the problem is even more widespread, as many people don't associate symptoms of low-level CO poisoning - which include cold, flu and general lethargy - with exposure to the gas.

In London alone, 79% of boilers installed by “rogue” fitters were deemed a risk or “immediately dangerous”. The watchdog is urging homeowners to only use qualified boiler installers who carry a Gas Safe ID card and to report anyone they suspect to be operating illegally.

The GSR monitors gas fitters operating across the country and says there are about 7,500 cowboys nationwide who do 250,000 illegal jobs a year.

“We need to stop these people and the only way to do it is with the help of the consumer,” said Ross McTaggart, head of field operations at the Gas Safe Register.

“These traders are putting people's lives in danger. The primary issue arising from illegal fittings is carbon monoxide poisoning, but a boiler installed illegally can also cause explosions or fires. We need to raise awareness of this and urge people to make sure they check a fitter's credentials.”

Despite these potential dangers, research by the GSR found that 43% of people still fail to regularly service their gas appliances, with 1 in 10 admitting they own an appliance which has never been checked. Also, 50% of people admitted they were unaware of the warning signs of CO poisoning.

The GSR recommends all householders fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm which costs around £25. Visit the GSR website for more advice on choosing and fitting a suitable alarm.

Photo by Matt Seppings