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Government Responds to Gill Report

Work and Pensions Secretary Yvette Cooper has responded to Lord Gill’s recommendations following the ICL Inquiry by announcing measures to strengthen the safe operation of lpg in small bulk installations.

A programme to replace commercial buried metallic lp gas pipework with polyethylene pipes is already underway, and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) and local authority inspectors have begun an inspection campaign to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Further measures that will be introduced include installation records for lpg gas users, registration of lpg suppliers, and clearer demarcation of responsibilities between users and suppliers. Suppliers will be required to produce an asset register, and users will receive improved guidance to ensure they meet their legal obligations.

Yvette Cooper said: “We are taking steps to strengthen gas safety onsite in future. All commercial buried metallic liquefied petroleum gas pipework will be replaced. To ensure that the replacement polyethylene pipes themselves remain safe, the HSE will undertake any additional research needed into the safety of these pipes and consult the lpg industry and pipe manufacturers on appropriate tests.

“We will also take steps to raise awareness amongst lpg users of their responsibilities within the existing legislative framework and ensure they comply with safety standards, underpinned by appropriate enforcement activity.

“I hope that the Government response goes some way to addressing the concerns of those who have suffered as a result of this tragic event and reassures them that the Government is determined to ensure that similar events do not happen in the future.”

Rob Shuttleworth, chief executive at UKLPG, said: “Safety continues to be the key priority for the industry, and the industry will be evaluating the implications of the Government’s response to Lord Gill’s recommendations and what actions it will need to take to ensure the continuation of its high safety record. UKLPG, on behalf of the lpg industry, will continue to support and work closely with the HSE on the replacement of underground metallic pipework at domestic and commercial premises.”

The HSE is currently working with the lp gas industry to develop clear and practical advice for lpg gas users on their statutory duties. The Government’s response to The ICL Inquiry Report is available at www.dwp.gov.uk/docs/icl-inquiry-response.pdf