Gas safety checks are a legal requirement for employers under the Health & Safety at Work Act but 34% of small businesses said they find it hard to devote enough time to fully understand the relevant safety requirements.
The research also found that nearly half (44%) of respondents sometimes find information on compliance and safety regulations confusing, with 31% saying they would welcome more guidance on the safety requirements their business has to comply with.
British Gas engineer Liz Robinson said: “For businesses, their main priority in the current climate is to ensure the smooth running of their organisation. This means that other issues, such as checking whether they have a safe boiler, can fall by the wayside.
“Regular safety checks on all gas appliances are required by law, but having a working boiler is imperative from a safety perspective too. A safe boiler also reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Because carbon monoxide has no taste, smell or colour, businesses should also ensure they fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm.”
Top tips to avoid putting your business at risk this winter:
- Ensure you are aware of when you need your heating system needs to come on and go off, based on the occupancy of your business and your heating requirements. Set your timer appropriately; don’t leave it running for longer than necessary. If you have a room thermostat, make sure it’s set to the right temperature.
- Have a maintenance contract with a good response rate in place. This ensures that you are keeping up with your safety obligations and you have a solution in the event of an emergency.
- Get the most out of your heating system by having it power flushed and protected with an inhibitor.
- Ensure your business is adequately insulated, including exposed pipework and tanks that may be susceptible to freezing.
- Make sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm installed.