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Every year in the UK some 36 people die from the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning (CO) and more than 1000 require hospital treatment. Recent research has been unable to determine the number of people suffering mild effects of CO poisoning such as headache, chest pains, nausea and tiredness.
If you experience any of these symptoms contact your local GP and mention the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.
What is carbon monoxide?
Carbon Monoxide is an odourless, tasteless and invisible gas which is produced by the combustion process of fires, heaters, boilers and motor vehicles etc.
Correctly installed and serviced appliances should be safe. However, should you be unsure or notice any of the following signs, switch off the appliance, ventilate the area and consult Adversys or registered CORGI approved installer.
The obvious danger signs are:
- Sooting or discolouration near the appliance
- A yellow or orange lazy flame
- Excessive condensation near the appliance
- Excessive noise in boilers and heaters
The most common and often overlooked source of danger in the home is poor, blocked or inadequate chimneys and flues. Poorly installed or incorrectly sited flues can pose an immediate danger and any form of flue degradation must be considered a risk. Adequate ventilation meeting the regulations is of prime importance to ensure safety and correct combustion within the appliance.
If you smell gas or suspect a gas escape:
- Turn off your gas supply at the control valve (usually located next to your gas meter)
- Do not: Smoke, use naked flames or turn electrical switches on or off
- Call Transco who operate an emergency service. Tel: 0800 111 999
The industry is regulated by the government (DTI) and a number of organisations and codes of practice including British Standards Institute, The Gas Safety Regulations, Building regulations, H&SE, CORGI, The Water Byelaws Scheme (WRc) & The Electricity Regulations. In general the above regulations have greatly improved safety in the home. However, owners and landlords should be aware of their responsibilities under this legislation.
Most heating appliances are connected in some way to an electrical supply. It is therefore important to regularly check the electrical installation during repairs and routine maintenance. All appliances and heating installations serviced by Adversys include an electrical safety check.
Water leaks do cause property damage but can also be a serious safety risk if the leak comes in contact with gas or electricity.
Regular maintenance of appliances or systems in the home is an important factor in reducing risk to humans, pets and property. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations and most manufacturers' instructions require gas appliances to be serviced at least once per year.
Remember prevention is better than cure
Is my system working correctly?
The only positive way to prove the correct and safe operation of your system is for a CORGI registered engineer to test the system with specialist knowledge, tools and analytical test equipment.
During the past few years a number of manufacturers have introduced heating appliances which have higher heating efficiencies than older conventional models. These devices bear an energy saving mark and are more economical to run. Sometimes it is worth considering upgrading heating appliances particularly central heating boilers which will provide a quicker return on investment.
Adversys is always prepared to advise existing and potential customers and will be pleased to discuss your questions in detail. ur contact details are shown below.
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