HSE advises caution in the use of gas forges

E115:05 30 August 2005

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently investigated several complaints relating to flame failure devices (FFDs) on gas forges used primarily by farriers. The key issues are the purchase of suitable equipment and safe operation of the forge.

Under the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), employers and the self-employed have a duty to ensure that work equipment complies with relevant standards. A build-up of unburned gas can lead to explosions, so gas appliances must be constructed so that during ignition and flame extinction a build-up of gas is avoided. This means that an FFD should be fitted that shuts off the gas supply if it is not burning.

In some situations such as high winds, the gas may go out, so operators may deliberately override the FFD. While this may not present a high risk in the open air, it is crucial that the device is reinstated prior to moving the forge and working in an enclosed space.

Tony Mitchell, of HSE's Agriculture Safety Section, said:

"HSE cannot condone in any way the deliberate overriding of FFDs and certainly expects that whenever these types of forges are used in a workroom the FFD must be operating correctly. Should an incident occur, as well as risking serious injury, the forge operator could face legal and civil action which might well jeopordise the business.

"When choosing a gas furnace, users should check for evidence that the equipment meets basic safety standards. If work in the open air is envisaged and the FFD is likely to cause problems, the use of cowls and wind breaks should be considered. Manufacturers of mobile forges can also help by looking at their designs to minimise the problem."

Notes to editors

The Gas Appliances (Safety) Regulations (GASR) 1995 are the set of regulations that give effect to the European Community Directive covering gas appliance safety in UK law (Council Directive 90/396/EEC). These regulations are made under the general provisions of the Consumer Protection Act and are generally enforced by the Department of Trade and Industry via trading standards departments. Where these appliances are used at work there is a reservation of powers under Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) in Schedule 1 paragraph 33 for HSE enforcement with respect to equipment used at work. A Simple Guide to the Provision of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) 1998 is available on the HSE website at www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg291.htm.

Press enquiries

All enquiries from journalists should be directed to the HSE Press Office