567/SWW/07 11 October 2007

Bangor students told to wise up to carbon monoxide at safety awareness event

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) will be on hand to offer advice and information to students from the University of Wales, Bangor on Friday, 12 October at a gas appliance safety awareness session.

Carbon Monoxide poisoning kills about 30 people a year through faulty gas fires, central heating boilers, cookers, and other appliances. Students in rented accommodation, who are not aware of their rights concerning the maintenance of appliances, are at risk.

Housing Officers and an HSE Inspector will be on hand outside the Students Union to speak to any students with concerns or queries on gas safety and their rights as tenants.

Notes to Editors

• CO Awareness Week (15-21 October) has been organised by CO-Gas Safety, Consumer Safety International, CO-Awareness and the Dominic Rodgers Trust and includes a press conference at the House of Commons. The aim of the day is to raise awareness of the dangers of accidental carbon monoxide poisoning and how to prevent being affected. For further information email: office@co-gassafety.co.uk
• More information on domestic gas safety can be found at hse.gov.uk/gas/index.htm
• Further information on gas safety and the risks to health is available from a number of sources. HSE’s Gas Safety Advice line is available on 0800 300 363. For health issues and symptoms: NHS Direct (England and Wales) 08454647 or (Scotland) 0800 224488, or www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk To find a Corgi-registered gas installer visit Corgi’s website at: www.trustcorgi.com or call 0870 401 2300. For suspected gas leaks, contact the National Gas Emergency Service: 0800 111 999.

Public Enquiries

HSE InfoLine
Tel: 0845 345 0055
visit: hse.gov.uk/contact

or write to:
HSE InfoLine, Caerphilly Business Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG.

Issued on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive by the Government News Network South West and Wales.