Repeat prosecution highlights need for safety compliance
February 24th 15:00 Health and Safety
The need for businesses to be aware or persistent offenders in regards to unqualified gas fitters has been highlighted after a man was fined for a second time.
Following the second successful prosecution of a rogue gas fitter, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has warned that those who continue to operate with gas appliances despite not holding the necessary qualifications are putting lives at risk.
Cheltenham Magistrates fined Royston Edward Godsell of Gloucestershire £450 and ordered him to pay £1,346.90 costs after he pleaded guilty to breaching section 3(3) of the Gas Safety Regulations 1998.
Stephan Axt-Simmonds, an HSE inspector, said: "Gas appliances which are not properly installed and adequately maintained by a competent registered installer may not operate properly and could potentially release deadly carbon monoxide fumes into an enclosed space.
"We strongly advise that everyone - whether it's in a business capacity or just as a private householder - gets their gas appliances checked regularly by a registered gas fitter."
