Understanding the Risks, Legal Duties, and Current Standards
Managing gas safety in schools requires exceptional diligence due to the presence of children and the varied use of gas across the premises. The risk profile is unique and demands specific controls for each area.
The management of a school or educational trust has a statutory duty of care. These are legal obligations, not just recommendations, under UK law including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998.
To meet these duties, school leaders must:
Adhering to the latest versions of technical standards is critical for safety and compliance. The following table lists the key current documents, some of which supersede older editions.
Standard | Full Title & What It Covers |
---|---|
IGEM/UP/11 Ed 3 | Gas installations in educational establishments (2019) The core document for schools. Details specific requirements for classrooms and labs, including gas proving systems and emergency shut-offs. (Supersedes 2010 edition) |
BS 6173:2020 | Specification for installation, servicing and maintenance of gas-fired catering appliances The key standard for school kitchens, covering ventilation and the requirement for gas interlock systems. (Supersedes 2009 edition) |
IGEM/UP/19 Ed 2 | Design and application of interlock devices... in commercial catering (2022) Provides the detailed technical specifications for the gas interlock systems mandated by BS 6173. (Supersedes 2014 edition) |
IGEM/UP/2 Ed 3 | Installation pipework on industrial and commercial premises (2014) Governs the safe installation of all gas pipework within the building. |
Building Bulletin 100 | Design for fire safety in schools (2014) Relevant for its specifications on boiler room construction and fire compartmentation. |