Issue #107
September 2010

• Join the fight against cancer
• Rothenberger tool sale
  Winner Announced
• China takes the lead in
  reusing wastewater
• Warning: Gas attack
• 60 seconds at the counter
• Attention QLD plumbers
• In the pipeline
• Main price Changes
• Expanding the Network
• DIY Disaters Competition returning soon

Warning: Gas attack

Reducing the risk.

A 30 year old plumber recently suffered serious facial burns after gas exploded while he was trying to relight a gas water heater at Richmond High, a Western Sydney school. It's another reminder of the dangers and the precautions needed when working with gas, and gas appliances.

It's not the first time something like this has happened. Gas water heaters that haven't been properly maintained have been responsible for deaths and serious injuries. Last year an apprentice was severely injured in an explosion, and there are plenty of plumbers who've had near misses they don't like to mention to their wives.

Extreme care and safety always needs to be taken when working with gas appliances and equipment.

• The first way to reduce the risk is to encourage your clients to replace their old, dodgy gas heater with a new, safer and more energy efficient heater, located outside the building, where possible.
• Always make sure heaters have unobstructed ventilation.
• Provide a written report of any maintenance work undertaken and be sure you provide a Certificate of Compliance.
• Look out for any signs of discolouration of the water heater or the walls near the heater, as this can indicate dangerous problems with the heater or its flue.
• Make sure heater flue pipes are free from all restrictions and holes.
• Where possible, make sure all new and replacement gas water heaters are installed outside the building.
• Don't forget to remind your customer to service their water heater every year.

For further information make sure you check out the OH&S regulations in your state.