Make sure you follow safety regulations when using gas
JOBURG – The reality of ongoing load shedding has seen many residents turning to gas for cooking and heating.
This according to Bertus Visser, chief executive of distribution, at PSG Insure, an independent financial services group that services the Sandton area.
Visser explained that the consequences of a gas accident can be dire, so it is best for residents to be careful and adequately insured in case something should go wrong.
“Gas installations, including gas hot water systems, stoves and ovens require certification,” cautioned Visser.
“The Occupational Health and Safety Act states that homeowners using gas in these ways have to have a Certificate of Conformity. [Gas bottles] must also be secured on an adequate surface, and locked in a cage.”
Visser said this is vital in complying with insurance policies against accidents.
“In addition, you must take precautions that your gas appliances are turned off when you are not using them and that you store your gas bottles safely and legally,” he said.
If gas appliances are not installed correctly, Visser said a gas leak can have major negative consequences, such as an explosion.
How to install gas bottles:
- One metre sideways from doors and windows
- One metre from the property boundary wall
- One-and-a-half metres from any light bulb
- Two metres from drains or air vents
- Three metres below windows
- Five metres sideways from a switchable electric point or plug switch.
Visser said residents should ask themselves a series of safety questions regarding any place of residence.
He added, “Landlords must have adequate cover for the cost of repairs and the loss of rental income, should tenants have to move out while renovations take place.
“Consult your adviser to make sure that your insurance covers you comprehensively for such accidents, and enjoy a safe, happy and warm winter.”
Safety questions to ask yourself if you are using gas appliances:
- Have you had your gas system or appliances checked, and do you have the necessary certification?
- Are you adequately insured against fire and other damage?
- If your property was to be damaged by a gas explosion or a fire, are you covered for the cost of demolition?
- If the damage means that you need to move out while repairs are being made, does your insurance cover the costs of you staying somewhere temporarily?
Tell us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page what gas appliances you use at home
