Can I work as a gas engineer before I quality?

Strict regulations are in place prohibiting anyone from working on gas appliances unless they have achieved specific qualifications relating to the work they are carrying out. Legally, they must also be registered with the Gas Safe Register . This official body exists to protect consumers from unsafe gas work and registration provides customers with evidence that you are working legally and are safe to work on the gas appliances you are operating on.

Anyone working for a registered gas company will receive registration through their employer in the shape of a licence card. You will only be required to register with the Gas Safe Register in your own name if you intend or are working as a self-employed engineer. The organisation operates a simple web-based checking service to allow members of the public to check the credentials of a gas engineer or company before hiring them to complete any work at their home. Every year, unqualified tradesmen are completing unsafe gas work in domestic homes, putting the lives of those who live there at risk. The register allows consumers to take control and perform their own checks for peace of mind.

Not all qualified gas engineers are legally able to work on all gas appliances. Competency tests and qualifications relate to a broad range of areas and engineers must hold a recognised qualification in the areas of gas work they carry out including domestic and non-domestic, LPG and natural gas and various appliances including boilers, fires and cookers.

One of the easiest ways of entering the industry or getting a place on a fast-track course is work experience. While you are not permitted to work with gas alone, without suitable qualifications, you can work closely with someone who is trained and experienced at their job. This will allow you to gain valuable on-the-job experience but safely. If you have any experience within the gas industry or a related sector you should be able to gain a place on an Accredited Certification Scheme (ACS) to gain certification and register with the Gas Safe Register.