This winter, you may want to consider taking a look at your heating system if you want to stay healthy. It is recommended that gas heaters be installed and maintained by a qualified and trained gas fitter.
An unsafe heater could result in a house fire or cause poisonous carbon monoxide fumes to fill your home. What are possible hazards of gas heating in a home, and how can you prevent them? Let’s discuss in detail.
Common Gas Related Hazards
There are two basic ways to obtain gas: from the mains supply or by a tank system. Alternatively, small portable cylinders can be used close to the work site for on-the-spot fuel supply. The most common types of gas in the workplace are the following:
- Natural gas
- Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
- LPG Autogas (LPGA)
- Medical gases
- Methane
Gas uses are subject to a variety of risks, including explosions caused by overheated or damaged cylinders, pipes, equipment or appliances. Additionally, there is the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning and burns due to exposure to hot surfaces or flames.
Always have your gas appliance inspected annually by a gas engineer and get yourself a Gas Safety Certificate to prevent any future hazards.
Poisoning From Carbon Monoxide
If a gas is used in a poorly ventilated area, it emits excess carbon monoxide (CO) which is odourless and colourless. Regardless of whether the gas is cylinders or a mains supply, this happens regardless of the type of gas burned.
As carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream, it binds with hemoglobin, reducing blood’s ability to transport oxygen. The consequence of this is that it can potentially result in death. Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur in certain situations such as when:
- The appliance is not located in an area that is adequately ventilated
- In the event of a blocked flue or chimney, the system cannot be vented properly
- Installing an appliance and maintaining it routinely is possible even if the appliance hasn’t been installed by a qualified professional.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is characterized by several symptoms and risks. Understanding these symptoms and risks is important. Among these are:
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Migraines
- Nausea
- Stomach and chest pains
Leakage Of Natural Gas
It is imperative to maintain pipes that are buried in the ground, underneath floors and in wall and ceiling voids to prevent leaks and gas build-up. Gas build-up is a major cause of explosions. A gas leak should be investigated immediately if you suspect it.
- Ensure that everyone is removed from the area
- To protect the property, it is advisable to turn off the gas main supply. Do not go into cellars or below ground to turn it off
- Lights should not be turned off as it can create a spark when they are igniting, but extinguish naked flames and sparks
- Make sure that all doors and windows are open
- Your local gas provider should be contacted.
It is not recommended that you
- Make use of any electrical equipment that you own
- Turn on and off the lights
- Go into cellars and confined underground spaces
- Use matches, gas lighters to ignite flame
Safety Precautions Related To Gas Heating
In order to prevent gas heating hazards, you can take the following safety measures.
- Make sure you know where your natural gas shut-off valve is
Make sure you know where and how to find the main natural gas shutoff valve before an emergency arises. Having a screwdriver or wrench available during an emergency may be necessary.
- Make sure you have a Carbon Monoxide detector
As it builds up indoors, carbon monoxide is odorless, invisible and poses a serious health risk. It is advised that you must install a carbon monoxide detector near your bedroom to alert you of dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
- Clear your gas fireplace of obstructions and keep it clean
You can hot a room with a natural gas fireplace, but be sure to keep kids, pets, and combustibles away from hot surfaces. In addition to preventing accidents, safety screens and fire-resistant hearth guards help maintain a clean fireplace without becoming obstructed.
- A registered engineer should be consulted
A Gas Safe registered engineer should install, maintain, and supply all gas equipment. Make certain that the engineer you choose is qualified to work on the correct equipment prior to selecting them.
Check their registration card for this information. A list of registered installers across the country is available on the Gas Safe Register website.
Takeaway – Gas Health and Safety Issues
Gas heating is heavily used in our daily lives for a variety of purposes. In conclusion, we must be aware of the risk factors, symptoms and detection methods of gas leaks. It is pretty much clear now that we have discussed all the potential hazards associated with gas heating in a home.
In order to ensure everyone is protected, you should make sure that this information is shared with others. In case of any emergency make sure to contact your national gas company and seek their help.
Author Bio:
Shoaib provides ghostwriting and copywriting services. His educational background in the technical field and business studies helps him in tackling topics ranging from career and business productivity to web development and digital marketing. He occasionally writes articles for gas safety certs.
