According to research conducted by British Gas, over half a million (20 per cent) small businesses in Britain are putting their operations at risk because they are unaware of their legal requirements to carry out gas safety checks,
This can be a confusing area for businesses as many think their landlord has sole responsibility for this. Another reason for this compliance confusion may be because many struggle to find the time, reported British Gas.
34 per cent said they have found it hard to devote enough time to fully understand the relevant safety requirements.
Failing to comply could be putting employees at risk and could also leave businesses open to prosecution. Employment law states that employers must arrange for the regular routine inspection of any gas appliances (recommended yearly) by suitably qualified people. It’s also a requirement for businesses to be inspected by their local councils at regular intervals. If businesses fail to have their gas appliances checked this could result in their Public Liability Insurance becoming void.
Yet the research found that nearly half (44 per cent) of respondents sometimes find information on compliance and safety regulations confusing. Additionally, 31 per cent would welcome more guidance on the safety requirements their business has to comply with.
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