Accident at work nearly kills engineer

An engineer from Wales was nearly killed when he was sent to investigate a gas leak in an office block.

John Courtney, 55 from Penarth, was almost overcome with carbon monoxide poisoning when he was investigating a possible leak at Mount Steward House in Cardiff.

Christopher Bates and Lewis John Rees of BR Greenwell Heating and Plumbing Services had incorrectly adjusted a gas valve during installation preceding Mr Courtney's involvement.

When Mr Courtney arrived at the scene the boiler was producing high levels of carbon monoxide.

Neither Mr Bates nor Mr Rees had an appropriate certificate under the Accredited Certification Scheme to confirm competency for work on the gas boiler, and as a result were fined £5,000 in total and ordered to pay costs of £8,000.

Hugh Emment, Health and Safety Executive inspector, stated: "It is vital that gas engineers comply with the standards set down by law.

"Since 2006 there have been three fatalities in the area because of registered gas installers working outside their confirmed competence."

Installing carbon monoxide detectors in buildings can protect workers and individuals against the threat of poisoning.

Often carbon monoxide leaks into buildings through faulty or broken water heaters, generators, stoves, vehicles, small gas or diesel powered tools and central heating systems.

Published by Kevin Round