By Gill Cooper
Free training is being offered next week to help local plumbers and gas-fitters skill up to test gas heaters and help prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning in homes.
Two sessions will be run by Master Plumbers, and supported by The Victorian Building Authority and Energy Safe Victoria at GPAC on Wednesday from 2-4pm and in the evening from 5-7pm.
The training, part of a statewide rollout, highlights the dangers to families caused by faulty installation or equipment. It is open to all registered and licensed gasfitters and Type A servicing plumbers and their apprentices.
Plumbers who install and service gas heaters can learn the latest techniques to accurately test for carbon monoxide spillage and identify the effects of negative pressure on the safe operation of appliances.
VBA chief executive officer Sue Eddy, said local plumbers were urged to take this opportunity to build their skills and confidence and protect public safety.
Effective testing and maintenance of gas appliances is is vital to managing risks of carbon monoxide spillage and other factors impacting on safety, she said.
Master Plumbers chief executive Peter Daly recommended that gas water heaters, space heaters and central heaters are serviced at least every two years.
“The potential danger of carbon monoxide poisoning exists in any home with gas appliances which are incorrectly installed or not regularly serviced,” he said.
“This includes central heating units, space heaters, wall furnaces and decorative log fires – it’s not just older appliances.”
Master Plumbers has previously called for a phase-out of open flued heaters, starting with all public buildings and rental properties, and mandatory servicing every two years.
Register by visiting the Victorian Building Authority’s vba.vic.gov.au/training or calling 1300 815 127.
