Trading Standards works with local traders to ensure that consumers are not in the dark about gas law changes

On 1st April 2009, the Gas Safe Register replaces the CORGI gas registration scheme.

From this date all gas engineers will be legally required to have registered with the Gas Register. It is illegal for anyone who has not registered to work gas appliances or installations.

Those that have been registered will have been issued with a Gas Safe Registration ID Card and their own unique licence number. The card will have a photograph and hologram and consumers will be able to verify it on the Gas Safe Register website or by phone on 0800 408 5500.

The front of the card will also include the start and expiry date and the reverse will show what work the engineer is qualified to carry out and what appliances they can work on, e.g. gas fire, boilers, cookers etc.

West Berkshire Council's Trading Standards is writing to local businesses known to work on gas installations to remind them that steps need to be taken to ensure that consumers have access to the information they need to make an informed choice. This involves ensuring that business paperwork, vehicle signage, advertising etc. is changed to take account of the new registration scheme.

Geoff Findlay, West Berkshire Executive Councillor for Environment and Public Protection said: "This is a big change after many years of consumers being urged to ensure that they should only use people who are CORGI registered. We are playing our part in trying to ensure that consumers can make the correct decision when engaging the services of a gas engineer".

Lisa Brunsden, Fair Trading Officer said, "Traders are legally required under the Unfair Commercial Practices Regulations to ensure that the information they give consumers is accurate and not misleading. We are contacting local traders to ask them what progress they have made in terms ensuring the information they give by whatever means is up to date. This is about working with the trade to protect the safety of the community".

Any local business requiring advice should contact the Trading Standards Helpline on (01635) 519930 or e-mail tsadvice@westberks.gov.uk

Issued on 18 March 2009 by West Berkshire Council