This Alert is being circulated on behalf of SGN We have written to our customers in Campbeltown, Oban, Thurso and Wick with important safety information about their gas appliances:- We’re writing to you with important safety information about your gas appliances. We at SGN are responsible for maintaining the network of pipes that supply gas to homes and businesses throughout Scotland. We are writing to remind you that gas appliances in your property, including boilers, gas fires and cookers, require regular servicing – normally at least once a year – to ensure they remain in good working order and do not present a risk to your safety. Faulty or malfunctioning gas appliances can produce a colourless and odourless gas called carbon monoxide (CO). CO is a highly poisonous gas that you can’t see, smell, hear or taste, and consequently is sometimes referred to as the ‘silent killer’. The symptoms of CO poisoning include nausea, dizziness, headaches and tiredness. Prolonged exposure to CO can be fatal. Since 1st February 2022, all Scottish homes are required to have a carbon monoxide alarm in all rooms where there is a fixed combustion appliance or a flue (excluding an appliance used solely for cooking). Carbon monoxide alarms must meet the relevant British Standards (EN 50291-1). However, for safety reasons, owning a CO alarm does not remove the need for regular appliance servicing. Remember to check the batteries on CO alarms regularly and replace the whole device once the expiry date printed on the alarm has been reached. If you suspect there may be CO present in your property, then you should ventilate the area by opening windows and doors, move outside into the fresh air and call the Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999 or via textphone (minicom) on 0800 371 787. To minimise the risk of CO or any other safety issue we strongly recommend you contact a Gas Safe Registered Engineer to service and perform safety checks on your appliances if this has not been done in the last 12 months. If you own your property, then visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk or call 0800 408 5500 for an official list of gas engineers who are qualified to work legally on gas appliances in your area. Alternatively, you can contact SGN on 0845 757 3864 to discuss your appliance servicing needs. If you live in private rented, council-owned, or social housing, then the property owners are legally required to have the appliances in your property serviced annually and supply CO alarm where they are required. Contact your landlord and ask for a current copy of the gas safety certificate for your property if you are unsure as to whether this work has been carried out. Please be reassured that if gas appliances are well maintained and serviced regularly then using gas in the home is extremely safe. Thank you for your support and feel free to share this information. If there’s anything else you need please let me know.
