IGEM Large Business Forum urges trades to put gas safety first during building works

As part of Gas Safety Week 2025, IGEM’s Large Business Forum (LBF) is renewing its call for tradespeople and businesses to take extra care around gas installations when carrying out building, repair, or refurbishment projects.

Too often, routine property work, from roofing and solar panel installation to fire protection, plumbing, cladding, and kitchen refits; risks disturbing existing gas appliances, pipework, flues, or ventilation systems. When this happens, it can put workers, gas users, and the public in danger of gas leaks, fires, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Legal Duties for All Trades

The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations (GSIUR) make it clear: all trades, not just gas engineers, have a legal responsibility to ensure their work does not compromise gas safety. Regulation 8 specifically prohibits any alterations to premises or gas fittings that could endanger people. Breaches can lead to serious safety risks and potential prosecution.

Simple Steps to Keep Gas Safe

The LBF is urging trades and contractors to:

• Risk assess projects before starting and keep records.
• Stop work immediately if there is a chance of damaging gas systems and seek expert advice.
• Bring in a Gas Safe registered engineer to make installations safe during works.
• Arrange a final safety check from a Gas Safe registered engineer once work is complete.

Guidance and Tools Available

To support trades, the LBF has developed a range of free-to-download resources, including:

• Risk assessments for both non-gas trades and registered engineers
• Safety guidance for fire protection works
• Advice sheets on property repair and refurbishment
• Tools to help identify risks around LPG heaters, flues, and ventilation

All surveys and risk assessments should be documented and kept on file for accountability and compliance.

About the Large Business Forum

Since 2009, IGEM’s Large Business Forum has brought together major gas businesses to promote safety, share best practice, and drive continuous improvement across the industry. By working collaboratively, the forum provides training, guidance, and clarity that benefit the whole sector and keep the public safe.

To learn more about IGEM’s Large Business Forum and access free guidance and tools, visit https://www.igem.org.uk/working-groups-committees-and-panels.html.