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Does your kitchen
comply with the latest Gas Regulations?
All new kitchens must have interlocking on the ventilation system
to comply with BS 6173 and GSIUR 27(4).
Any kitchen built after September 2001 must have interlocking on
the ventilation system to comply with BS 6173 and GSIUR 27(4).
Any existing appliances that are modified or maintained or replaced
may also require the ventilation system to be interlocked. (See
CORGI Technical Bulletin TB 130)
What
is an interlock?
An interlock is a system that will not allow the gas to be turned
on until the ventilation system is operating correctly.
Why
is an interlock required?
An interlock is required to ensure the safety and comfort of the
kitchen staff. If the ventilation system is not operating correctly,
gases including carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide can build up
to dangerous levels. These two gases give most concern to the Health
and Safety Executive (HSE).
How does the
interlock work?
A sensor must detect an airflow above a certain threshold and then
the system will allow the gas isolation valve to open, thus allowing
the gas appliances to be used. If the air is NOT flowing, the gas
isolation valve CANNOT open.
To comply with CORGI regulations, actual airflow "draught"
must be measured to determine if the isolation valve should open
or not. Any form of electrical, or "fan running" interlock
does not comply with the regulations.
The important point here is that it is not sufficient just to have
a ventilation system, but that it must actually be working correctly
for the chef and staff to be safe from poisoning.
The risks of not
complying with the regulations include the following:
1. Risks to the health of employees.
2. Insurance implications of a claim by an individual or because
of a related accident.
3. A CORGI registered installer may issue an At Risk or Immediately
Dangerous certificate which could adversely affect trade.
4. In the event of an incident-HSE investigation, up to a £5000.00
fine and referral to Crown court.
What is Flame
Supervision?
Flame supervision is a device fitted to a gas applince that will
turn off the gas if the flame goes out.
What is a
Gas Proving System?
A gas proving system prevents dangerous situations occurring by
preventing the gas supply from being turned on until all appliances
isolation valves are closed.
Do I need
a Gas Proving System?
You must have a gas proving system if any of your appliances DO
NOT have flame supervision fitted.
If an appliance isolation valve is left open and the gas is turned
on, gas will continue to vent into the kitchen.
A gas proving system prevents this dangerous situation occurring
by preventing the gas supply from being turned on until all appliance
isolation valves are closed.
How does a
Gas Proving System work:
a) First the fans must be running. (See panel "Fans On / Off"
Indicators)
b) Operate the gas power key-switch.
c) Depress the "Start Gas Proving" Button.
d) IF the gas system is safe, the main gas valve will open and the
panel will indicate "Gas On"
Else the "Gas Off" indicator will remain lit, as an appliance
valve is still open or a gas leak exists. |
