E003:08 28 January 2008

HSE launches second stage of gas installer competition

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have launched the second stage of the competition to run a new gas installer registration scheme. The new scheme is set to bring added value to gas consumer safety and benefits to gas installers across Great Britain.

The new scheme takes forward recommendations arising from the HSE’s review of the domestic gas safety regime and the views expressed by stakeholders. Oversight of the new regime will remain with the HSE. Further details of these recommendations can be found at http://www.hse.gov.uk/gas/domestic/safetyreview.htm

Health and Safety Minister, Lord McKenzie of Luton welcomed the HSE announcement. The Minister said: "I am pleased that the scheme has now moved onto its next stage. The new scheme will bring innovative solutions to the table and give extra value to gas consumers throughout the UK.”

The main elements of the new scheme will be:

• A single provider appointed to run the new scheme for 5 years under the terms of an agreement to be managed by HSE.
• The new registration scheme provider will co-ordinate stronger industry action to raise public awareness of gas safety.
• The new provider will be given other functions such as tackling the problem of illegal, unregistered installers; and
• It will be asked to review the competence requirements for registration of gas installers with a view to simplifying the current requirements and reducing burdens on installers.

As part of this second stage of the competition, HSE issued Invitation to Tender documents to short-listed companies on 25 January. The deadline for the return of bids is 10th March. The HSE evaluation process will involve discussion on proposals with bidders and advice from external Advisers and stakeholders. An announcement on the new scheme provider is expected in the summer with the new scheme due to start in April 2009.

Notes to editors

1. HSE has responsibility for regulating consumer gas safety in GB and does this largely through the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 (GSIUR).
2. The overall objective of the gas installer registration scheme is to improve safe standards of gas work and add value to consumer gas safety. At present, CORGI (Council of Registered Gas Installers) is approved by HSE to undertake this task and maintains an up-to-date register of gas installers who are qualified to install or repair gas fittings and appliances. CORGI is approved until April 2009 to undertake this task.

Press enquiries (Journalists only):

Newsdesk: 020 7717 6700
Out of hours: 020 7928 8382

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

Press Notices issued on behalf of all Government Departments can be viewed on: www.gnn.gov.uk