Gas safety advice from your Gas Safe registered engineer

What is CO poisoning?

Unsafe gas appliances can produce a highly poisonous gas called carbon monoxide (CO). It can cause death as well as serious long term health problems such as brain damage.

CO is produced by the incomplete burning of gas and Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG). This happens when a gas appliance has been incorrectly fitted, badly repaired or poorly maintained. It can also occur if flues, chimneys or vents are blocked.

Oil and solid fuels such as coal, wood, petrol and oil can also produce carbon monoxide.

CO poisoning occurs when you breathe in the gas and it replaces oxygen in your bloodstream. Without oxygen, your body tissue and cells die. Even small amounts of the gas can cause CO poisoning, and long term effects can include paralysis and brain damage.

What to do if you suspect CO poisoning?

• Get fresh air immediately. Open doors and windows, turn off gas appliances and leave the house.
• See your doctor immediately or go to hospital – let them know that you suspect CO poisoning. They can do a blood or breath test to check.
• If you think there is an immediate danger, call the Gas Emergency Helpline on 0800 111 999.
• Ask a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect your gas appliances and flues to see if there is a dangerous problem.

Ask to See my Gas Safe ID Card

Every engineer carries the GasSafe ID card, check the card for:

• The licence number
• The start and expiry date
• The security hologram
• The work the engineer is qualified to do
• Up-to-date qualifications

You can also check at via the Gas Safe Register or by calling 0800 408 5500.