YH/523/06. GNN141229P. 27 November 2006

Silsden death prompts hse warning about the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning

Following the recent death of a 59 year old Silsden man the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is issuing a public alert on the importance of having all domestic gas appliances regularly checked and serviced at this time of year.

Initial findings of HSE's investigation into this tragic incident point to the likely cause being carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning as a result of a blockage on an open-flued gas fire. At a time of year when gas fires and boilers are being widely brought back into use as colder weather returns, CO poisoning caused by poorly maintained or inexpertly installed equipment is an ever-present risk.

David Powell, HSE Principal Inspector of the Gas Safety team said,

"CO poisoning kills around 30 people each year. This is 30 too many and the HSE is working constantly with CORGI, TRANSCO and the Department of Health to cut this death toll dramatically.

"All domestic gas appliances need to be checked regularly - at least every 12 months - by a CORGI registered gas installer, even if there are no obvious signs of equipment failure. CO is not called the 'silent killer' for nothing.

"Anyone who has had a gas appliance installed or serviced recently and is experiencing drowsiness, headaches and nausea should immediately switch it off and have it checked by a CORGI registered gas installer, or ring the Transco emergency number on 0800 111 999. Contact a doctor who can carry out tests for CO in your blood. To find a CORGI registered engineer, or to report an unsafe installation, CORGI can be contacted on 0870 401 2300.

"The symptoms for CO poisoning are very common, but if you see sooting and condensation around your appliance, or big orange flames inside, your appliance could be leaking carbon monoxide and you need to have it checked. Better still, have it checked and serviced anyway before any problems occur. It could be a life-saving decision."

Notes to editors

1. There are several steps every householder can take to reduce the risk of CO poisoning:
   • Ensure that gas appliances are checked by a CORGI-qualified gas fitter every 12 months
   • Do not attempt to fix any gas appliance yourself
   • If building work is taking place near a gas appliance, make sure that it will not make it unsafe.

   • Consider buying a CO alarm, but remember alarms are no substitute for making sure the appliances are safe.

2. David Powell, HSE Principal Inspector of the Gas Safety team, will be available for interview on the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Public enquiries

HSE's InfoLine: 0845 3450055
Caerphilly Business Park, Caerphilly CF83 3GG

HSE information and news releases can be accessed on the Internet www.hse.gov.uk/