Safe and Legal Installation of Gas Appliances
Kitting out a kitchen or your home with gas appliances is a smart solution if there is going to be continued load shedding for a long time.
17/05/2022
Were you aware of the fact that all gas appliances must be installed according to the Occupation Health and Safety Act? The installation of gas appliances as an alternative to electrical appliances has resulted in many homes being fitted with only gas appliances or a combination of gas and electric appliances. The reason for this increase is glaringly obvious; load shedding is making it increasingly difficult for the average home to operate as a family unit should.
The Health and Safety Act requires that all gas appliances be installed according to health and safety regulations, mainly due to the fact that incorrect installation of these appliances can result in dangers that may result in damage to property or even death. It was too easy for the average person to simply install gas appliances without considering the implications if done incorrectly.
When gas appliances are installed in line with regulations certain guidelines remain as regards the safe use of gas appliances. You will find these guidelines under the SANS standard for gas installation and safe usage. Visit sabs.co.za for more information in this regard.
The installation procedure for all home gas appliances must receive a Certificate of Compliance (COC) from the installer and this installer must be an authorised installation agent that is registered with the LP Gas Association of South Africa (lpgas.co.za) or one that is qualified with the South African Qualification and Certification Committee (SAQCC).
What happens if you install gas appliances without a COC, you may ask? In the event of damage to a property, your insurance will not cover this without a valid COC.
A home insurance company can refuse a claim for damage caused by gas appliances not installed by a registered installer and without a Certificate of Compliance.
If you still have existing appliances installed in your home, the onus is on you to ensure that they meet health and safety standards. The COC covers gas heaters, gas stovetops, hobs, or ovens, as well as gas grills and braais. Gas fireplaces and hot water systems must have a COC. If you are not covered make the soonest appointment to have a registered gas installer inspect gas appliances and issue a COC as there are strict regulations as concerns minimum distances for gas cylinders in relation to entry and exit points in the home, windows, drains and electrical / power outlets.
Gas appliances not correctly installed could result in a gas leak that will have major health and safety implications for you and your family, and that does not include the danger of damage to a property as a result of an explosion.
According to thegasman.co.za, regulations apply to any existing or new gas installations and these regulations must be adhered to in order for a Certificate of Compliance to be issued. Copy and paste the link for full details on regulations relating to the installation of gas appliances in a home.