What is Gas Safety Week and what do small businesses need to know?
Gas Safety Week is an annual national campaign that raises awareness of the importance of keeping gas appliances, pipework and ventilation safe. For small businesses, it’s an important reminder that gas safety isn’t just a compliance tick box exercise - it’s essential for protecting your staff, your customers, your premises and your ability to trade.
Whether you run a café, workshop, salon, office or warehouse, taking a few simple steps can help you stay safe, avoid downtime and keep your energy equipment running efficiently.
Key tips for gas safety for your business
- Annual gas safety checks – Get a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect your appliances every 12 months
- Check the ventilation in your premises – Good airflow within the premises prevents carbon monoxide build up and helps appliances burn safely
- Know what the warning signs are – Unusual smells, soot marks, yellow flames and condensation can be signs of a problem
- Train your staff – Make sure your staff know the signs and what they need to do in an emergency
Why gas safety matters for small businesses
- Protect your staff and customers – Faulty gas appliances can cause gas leaks and carbon monoxide leaks. Both are invisible, gas leaks can lead to fires and explosions, carbon monoxide can cause serious poisoning, making regular safety checks essential
- Avoid having to close your business – Unsafe equipment can lead to closure of the business until the equipment is fixed
- Stay compliant – Businesses have a legal requirement to ensure all gas equipment are installed, checked and maintained by a gas safety engineer
- Improve efficiency – Well maintained gas appliances run more efficiently so they use less energy which helps you keep your costs down
Carbon monoxide – The hidden danger in your business premises
Carbon monoxide (CO) is colourless, odourless and seriously dangerous. Every business premises with gas appliances should have:
- A carbon monoxide alarm installed in the correct location. Wired alarms offer better long‑term reliability, reduce the risk of batteries running out and mean there’s one less thing you need to check is working correctly
- Clear evacuation procedures that all staff are aware of
- Staff should be aware of the symptoms of CO exposure ( headaches, dizziness, nausea)
Ensure you always use a Gas Safe Registered engineer
When looking to book a gas installation or safety check, always use a Gas Safe registered engineer as they are legally qualified to work on gas appliances. Before any work is completed:
- Check the Gas Safe Register
- Ask to see their Gas Safe ID card
- Confirm they are qualified to work on the specific appliance that you require work on
Do you rent your business premises?
If you don’t own your business premises the landlord is responsible for ensuring that the gas appliances and pipework are safe. When renting you should:
- Request a copy of the annual Gas Safety Certificate
- If you notice any issues with the gas appliances you should report this immediately
- Always keep your own records of any maintenance or repairs that take place
What to do if you smell gas in your business premises
If you smell gas in your premises, it is important that you act quickly, calmly and follow the correct advice:
- Open all doors and windows to allow the gas to escape
- Turn off the gas valve by the meter if its safe to do so
- Evacuate the building. Ensure to get everyone out in a safe manner
- Do not: Use electrical switches (do not turn off/on lights). Use mobile phones inside the property. Smoke or use naked flames. Try to find the source of the leak yourself.
- Call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 once you, your staff and customers are safely outside
- Do not re-enter the property until the Gas Safe Registered engineer has confirmed it is safe to do so
Gas safety week is a great time to check your set up, book any outstanding checks and make sure your appliances and business is safe. These regular checks can prevent costly issues later down the line and keep your appliances working efficiently all year round.
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