Carbon monoxide causes the accidental deaths of approximately 50 people each year in England and Wales alone. B&ES provides consumer advice on the issue via its Heating Helpline and is now looking to work more closely with partners across the energy industry with a view to setting-up a cross-industry 24 hour help and advice line.

Current Position

In early November the All Party Parliamentary Gas Safety Group launched a report 'Preventing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning' the result of a six-month parliamentary inquiry, with evidence from a cross section of individuals and organisations across the energy sector, policy makers, people with real-life experiences and other key stakeholders.

One of the report’s key recommendations is to establish an All Fuels Carbon Monoxide Forum to promote collaboration, share information and improve campaigning. 

Next Steps

The All Party Gas Safety Group has held an important stakeholder meeting in November which B&ES attended. The meeting discussed how to establish an All Fuels Carbon Monoxide Forum and in turn how best to set-up a definitive consumer helpline. Alongside B&ES were senior representatives from energy companies, carbon monoxide alarm manufacturers and retailers.  The intention is to agree a broad way forward, then to engage with Health and Safety Executive and Ofgem as a next step.

Contact

For more details e-mail Bob Towse