(rgi) With The Rgi

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SECTION 1 SAFETY, CERTIFICATION & GETTING YOUR CUSTOMER CONNECTED IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ALL REGISTERED GAS INSTALLERS Under current legislation, the Register of Gas Installers Ireland (RGII) is the Gas Safety Supervisory Body (GSSB) with the responsibility to regulate the activities of gas installers with respect to gas safety. Fig. 1 (below) demonstrates how the Regulatory System operates. Operation of the Regulatory System - Legislative Requirements Designated Classes of Gas Works C us tomer requires work to be undertaken on G as F itting (“ G as Work” ) “ G as Work” c an only be c arried out by a R egis ter G as Ins taller (R G I) “ G as Works ” ins talled and c ertified as s afe agains t applic able s tandard by a regis tered gas ins taller us ing approved gas fittings /applianc es R G I undertakes “ G as Works ” in ac c ordanc e with the relevant S tandard R G I is s ues a Dec laration of C onformanc e to the C us tomer R G I c ertifies that the “ G as Work” (his own work or that of a regis tered trainee under his s upervis ion) is in ac c ordanc e with the S tandard Fig. 1 Regulatory System Operation it is a criminal offence for any person who is not a registered Gas installer (RGI) with the RGII to undertake “Gas Work” (natural Gas and LPG). The Declaration of Conformance Certificate, which must be signed by the RGI carrying out the work, is a declaration by the RGI that the “Gas Work” is safe, that it has been carried out in accordance with, and that it conforms to, the National Standard for Domestic Gas Installations I.S. 813. or I.S. EN 1949, as appropriate. It is a requirement of the legislation (Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2006) for an RGI to issue a Completion Certificate for all “Gas Work” carried out (it’s the Law). All reference to Declaration of Conformance Certificates throughout this document must be construed as meaning Completion Certificates supplied by the RGII. An RGI is only permitted to certify his or her own work or that of a Registered (RGI) Trainee under supervision. Only a Declaration of Conformance Certificate obtained from the RGII and completed and signed by a RGI is acceptable for this purpose. Where multiple appliances are connected to a single meter, one certificate is sufficient for all “Gas Works” carried out. Where multiple meters are fitted in one dwelling a certificate is required for work carried out on behalf of each individual customer concerned. The Network Operator/Gas Supplier must be assured that an installation is safe and complies with Irish Standard 813 (I.S. 813) Domestic Gas installations or I.S. EN 1949, as appropriate, before gas can be supplied. 1 Declarations of Conformance Certificates are available from RGII. PART 1. PRIOR TO SUPPLY OF GAS Before you fill in the Certificate (New installations post-construction): • The installation must be complete • The pipe work must terminate close to the outlet of the meter/tank or cylinder • Fit premises ID tag (where applicable in multioccupancy dwellings) • All flues must be complete • All ventilators must be in place (Even if the ventilators are fitted by another trade) • Carry out a soundness test (I.S. 813 Paragraph 13.2) – Turn off all appliance valves – Pressurize pipe work to 100/150 mbar (with air) – Observe pressure gauge for 5mins DECLARATION OF CONFORMANCE (COMPLETION CERTIFICATE) To facilitate the wide range of “Gas Works” undertaken by RGI’s there are three different types of Declaration of Conformance Certificate: CERT 1: NEW INSTALLATIONS OR EXISTING GAS INSTALLATIONS REQUIRING A SUPPLY OF GAS AND/OR NEW METER FIT i.e. requiring a connection to the gas network (Gas Network Operator/ Gas Supplier will not fit a new gas meter/supply gas without picking up a copy of cert 1 on site) D OMESTIC PREMISES GAS INSTALLATION If the steps outlined above are not followed, in the interest of safety, gas will not be supplied by gas suppliers. 11 S NOTE: THIS IS A SAFETY RELATED DOCUMENT AND NOT AN INVOICE/RECEIPT PART 1 SAFETY NOTE CERT CERT D ECLARATION OF CONFORMANCE FOR NEW INSTALLATIONS O R EXISTING INSTALLATIONS REQUIRING A SUPPLY OF GAS AND/OR NEW METER FIT N o. SN 1234567 Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS LOCATION OF PREMISES REQUIRING SUPPLY NAT GAS 2356721 GPRN MURPHY NAME _____________________________________________ Exist Annex E 5 CROUGH PARK, DUBLIN 9 ____________________________________________________ ALL DETAILS REQUESTED MUST BE PROVIDED. O NLY THE REGISTERED GAS INSTALLER (RGI) RESPONSIBLE FOR CARRYING OUT T HE INSTALLATION & TESTS CAN SIGN THIS DECLARATION. GAS WILL BE SUPPLIED TO THIS PREMISES ONLY ON RECEIPT OF THIS DECLARATION Appliances Installed C entral Heating F ire A ppliance Flue Type Open Open R.Seal Pipework Material: Copper CSST ADDRESS __________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ 086 123 4567 __________________________________________ TEL. NO. Flueless O ther __________________ C ooker R.Seal Open Hob R.Seal Other FLUE INSPECTED AND ADEQUATE ADEQUATE PERMANENT VENTILATION SOUNDNESS TEST PASS I HEREBY DECLARE, UNDER MY SOLE RESPONSIBILITY & BEING COMPETENT TO DO SO; (Please sign appropriate statement) “PRE-CONSTRUCTION” • THAT ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 & ALL MANUFACTURERS REQUIREMENTS FOR INSTALLING THE ABOVE APPLIANCES WILL BE MET (IN AS FAR AS IS POSSIBLE IF PRIOR TO THE SUPPLY OF GAS) • THAT ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 FOR INSTALLING & TESTING OF THE INSTALLATION PIPEWORK WILL BE MET • THAT COMMISSIONING SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 • THAT THE INSTALLATION PIPE WORK WILL BE SOUND • THAT THE INSTALLATION AT THIS PREMISES WILL BE SAFE TO BE SUPPLIED WITH GAS. DECLARATION OF INSTALLATION SAFETY & CONFORMITY P RIOR TO SUPPLY OF GAS PART 2. AFTER SUPPLY OF GAS “POST-CONSTRUCTION” • THAT ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 & ALL MANUFACTURERS REQUIREMENTS FOR INSTALLING THE ABOVE APPLIANCES HAVE BEEN MET (IN AS FAR AS IS POSSIBLE IF PRIOR TO THE SUPPLY OF GAS) • THAT ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 FOR INSTALLING & TESTING OF THE INSTALLATION PIPEWORK HAVE BEEN MET • THAT COMMISSIONING SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 • THAT THE INSTALLATION PIPE WORK IS SOUND • THATTHE INSTALLATIONATTHIS PREMISES IS SAFETO BE SUPPLIEDWITH GAS. 24/01/10 Company Number: RGI Signed: ______________________________ Issue Date: ____________ Z5 2 1 0 Trainee Number: Before you fill in part 2 of the Certificate: • Connect installation pipework to the meter/tank or cylinder outlet pipe AFTER SUPPLY OF GAS • Carry out construction/commissioning soundness test as Part 1 above (I.S. 813 Paragraph 13.2) B • When system passes soundness test open gas isolation valve • Purge air from the pipe work • Commission and rate each appliance following manufacturer’s instructions • Each open flue appliance must pass a flue flow/spillage test with the appliance operating (I.S. 813 Paragraph 10.10.2 and 10.10.3) • Remove “Awaiting Commissioning” labels if fitted • Complete part 2 of this Certificate (including location of isolation valve.) • Hand over to owner/occupier/landlord/landlord; – The Declaration of Conformance (White copy), as specified in I.S. 813 clause 15.2 – Written instructions for each appliance installed. The competent person shall ensure that the person responsible for the premises and/or operation of the installation shall be properly instructed in their safe use and operation in accordance with I.S. 813 Clause14.2. • You must return green copy of the declaration to RGII within 10 days. NA Trainee Signature: ______________________________________________ JOE PLUMBER RGI Name: _______________________________________________________________ RGI Signed: ________________________ RGI Number: BLOCK CAPITALS RGI Number: Complete Part 1 of this Certificate, • Leave yellow copy in meter box / with customer for collection by gas supplier/network operator. • You must sign the appropriate statement on the declaration i.e. “pre-construction” or “post-construction”. ____________________________________________________ 5 SEAFIELD ROAD, MULLINGAR, ____________________________________________________ CO. WESTMEATH. ____________________________________________________ BLOGGS CUSTOMER NAME _________________________________ 083 211 6521 TEL. NO. ______________________________________ ADDRESS __________________________________________ APPLIANCE LOCATION CORRECT O WNER OF PREMISES DETAILS L P GAS N ew JOE PLUMBER 083 123 4567 P 0 0 7RGI1Tel No: _______________________ P0071 RGI Name: _______________________________________________________________ BLOCK CAPITALS 26/01/10 26/01/10 Date of Test: _______________________ Issue Date: _________________ PART 1I COMMISSIONING DECLARATION I HEREBY DECLARE, UNDER MY SOLE RESPONSIBILITY & BEING COMPETENT TO DO SO; • THAT ALL MANUFACTURERS’ REQUIREMENTS & ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION, COMMISSIONING,TESTING & PUTTING INTO SERVICE OF THE ABOVE APPLIANCES HAVE BEEN MET • THAT A WRITTEN OPERATING INSTRUCTION HAS BEEN PROVIDED WITH EACH APPLIANCE • THAT THE CUSTOMER WAS INSTRUCTED IN THE SAFE USE AND OPERATION OF THE APPLIANCES. FLUE GAS ANALYSIS: Co 4ppm 1 Co RGI Signed: ____________________________________ 2 8.4 RGI Number: % Co/Co 2 Ratio 0.0005 P 0 0 7 1Commissioning Date: 26/01/10 _______________ DECLARATION OF A PPLIANCE COMMISSIONING SAFETY & C ONFORMITY AFTER SUPPLY OF GAS NOTE: THIS DOCUMENT IS A COMPLETION CERTIFICATE FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE ENERGY (MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT 2006 THIS DECLARATION CONFIRMS TO YOU THE HOUSEHOLDER AND TO YOUR GAS SUPPLIER / NETWORK OPERATOR,THAT THIS INSTALLATION IS SAFELY INSTALLED IN CONFORMANCE WITH IRISH STANDARD 813 “DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLATIONS”/I.S. EN 1949 LPG LEISURE ACCOMMODATION VEHICLES. H OUSEHOLDER I MPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION PLEASE READ CAREFULLY THE PERSON WHO ISSUES THIS DECLARATION ACCEPTS SOLE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS ACCURACY. AFTER COMMISSIONING, THE SAFE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THIS INSTALLATION FROM THE METER OR LPG CYLINDERS/TANK VALVE INWARDS IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE HOUSEHOLDER. GAS APPLIANCES SHOULD BE SERVICED ANNUALLY. FOR THE SAFE AND EFFICIENT OPERATION OF YOUR APPLIANCES PLEASE REFER TO APPLIANCE USER INSTRUCTIONS. FOR YOUR REASSURANCE AND SAFETY PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE ABLE TO OPERATE THE OFF VALVE WHICH IS LOCATED AT L/H SIDE OF HOUSE METER COPIES: WHITE – CUSTOMER GREEN YELLOW – RETURN TO RGII EMERGENCY SHUT BOX – ON SITE FOR GAS SUPPLIER/NETWORK OPERATOR BLUE PTO – COPY FOR YOUR RECORDS Fig. 2 Sample Declaration Certificate Form G01(S) Version 3 17/10/11 All details on this Declaration of Conformance (Cert 1) New Installations MUST be completed. This is important information as it denotes the “Gas Work” that was carried out and declares that this work was carried out in accordance with the Standard for Domestic Gas Installations (I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949). The gas supplier/network operator will only supply gas/fit meter to an installation on receipt of a copy of an RGII declaration of conformance on site issued by a RGI. This version of a declaration is in two parts. Cert 1 is required for: • New gas service + new meter • Existing gas service + new meter • Stolen meter replacement SAFETY NOTE When Network Operator/Gas Supplier fitter arrives he will access the dwelling and check the declaration. If satisfactory, the Network Operator/Gas Supplier will connect the meter/tank or cylinder for final connection to the customer installation by the RGI (See “Part 2” actions on right). SAFETY NOTE 2 If the steps outlined above are not followed, in the interest of safety, gas will not be supplied by gas suppliers. ppm CERT 2: BOILER REPLACEMENT WHERE A METER/GAS IS ALREADY SUPPLIED CERT 3: EXISTING INSTALLATIONS WITH A GAS SUPPLY/GAS METER FOR NEW APPLIANCE FIT (EXCEPT BOILERS), REPAIR, SAFETY CHECK AND/OR SERVICE (to cover all other “Gas Work”) CERT CERT 22 D OMESTIC PREMISES GAS INSTALLATION DECLARATION OF CONFORMANCE FOR BOILER REPLACEMENT WHERE A METER/GAS IS ALREADY SUPPLIED NOTE: THIS IS A SAFETY RELATED DOCUMENT AND NOT AN INVOICE/RECEIPT No. BR DOMESTIC PREMISES GAS INSTALLATION 1234567 LOCATION OF PREMISES NAT GAS 2356721 OWNER OF PREMISES DETAILS L P GAS 5 SEAFIELD ROAD, MULLINGAR, ____________________________________________________ CO. WESTMEATH. ____________________________________________________ 083 211 6521 TEL. NO. __________________________________________ Central Heating MAXI Make ____________________ Gas Hob Others ______________________________ Appliance Flue Type Open 50/60F BOILER Model ____________________ Gas Fire ______________________________________ Pipework Material: Copper APPLIANCE LOCATION CORRECT CSST 2 8. 4 % Co/Co 2 Make / Model Location Repaired ____________________________________________________ 5 SEAFIELD ROAD, ____________________________________________________ MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH. ____________________________________________________ 083 211 6521 T EL. NO. __________________________________________ ADDRESS __________________________________________ Annex C * S e r vic e d I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949* I nst a lle d NO YES NO YES NO Annex E * S a fe t y C heck YES NO H ob DECLARATION OF INSTALLATION, APPLIANCE COMMISSIONING SAFETY & CONFORMITY 0 .0 0 0 5 Ratio BLOGGS N AME _____________________________________________ YES SOUNDNESS TEST PASS Co Appliance T y pe OWNER OF PREMISES DETAILS L P GAS ALL DETAILS REQUESTED MUST BE PROVIDED. O NLY THE REGISTERED GAS INSTALLER (RGI) RESPONSIBLE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INSTALLATION / REPAIR / SERVICE / SAFETY CHECK AND TESTS AS APPLICABLE IN ACCORDANCE WITH I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 CAN SIGN THIS DECLARATION. 5 SEAFIELD ROAD, ____________________________________________________ MULLINGAR, ____________________________________________________ CO. WESTMEATH. CUSTOMER NAME BLOGGS _________________________________ TEL. NO. __________________________________________ 083 211 6521 ADDRESS __________________________________________ Other FLUE INSPECTED AND ADEQUATE ADEQUATE PERMANENT VENTILATION N AT GAS 2356721 GPRN ADDRESS __________________________________________ Appliance Installed R.Seal LOCATION OF PREMISES ____________________________________________________ ALL DETAILS REQUESTED MUST BE PROVIDED. ONLY THE REGISTERED GAS INSTALLER (RGI) RESPONSIBLE F O R C ARRYING OUT THE INSTALLATION & TESTS CAN SIGN THIS DECLARATION. 5 SEAFIELD ROAD, MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH. ____________________________________________________ BLOGGS CUSTOMER NAME _________________________________ 083 211 6521 TEL. NO. __________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ 4ppm 1 1234567 N o. EX Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS BLOGGS NAME _____________________________________________ ADDRESS __________________________________________ FLUE GAS ANALYSIS: Co 33 NOTE: THIS IS A SAFETY RELATED DOCUMENT AND NOT AN INVOICE/RECEIPT Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS GPRN CERT CERT DECLARATION OF CONFORMANCE FOR EXISTING INSTALLATIONS WITH A GAS SUPPLY/GAS METER FOR NEW APPLIANCE FIT (EXCEPT BOILERS), REPAIR, SAFETY CHECK AND/OR SERVICE Oven Cooker Fire Flueless Fire I HEREBY DECLARE, UNDER MY SOLE RESPONSIBILITY & BEING COMPETENT TO DO SO; C/H Boiler • THAT ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 & ALL MANUFACTURERS REQUIREMENTS FOR INSTALLING, COMMISSIONING TESTING AND PUTTING INTO SERVICE THE ABOVE APPLIANCES HAVE BEEN MET Water Heater • THAT A WRITTEN OPERATING INSTRUCTION HAS BEEN PROVIDED WITH EACH APPLIANCE • THAT THE CUSTOMER WAS INSTRUCTED IN THE SAFE USE AND OPERATION OF THE APPLIANCES • THAT ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 FOR INSTALLING & TESTING OF THE INSTALLATION PIPEWORK HAVE BEEN MET Pipework • THAT THE INSTALLATION PIPE WORK IS SOUND C omments: • THAT THE INSTALLATION AT THIS PREMISES/LOCATION IS SAFE TO CONTINUE TO USE GAS. C ompany N umber : P0071 Tr ainee N umber : JOE PLUMBER BLOCK CAPITALS % 17/06/11 Date of Test: ____________________ Date of Issue: RGI Name: ___________________________________________ Notice of Hazard issued YES NO HOUSEHOLDER IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION PLEASE READ CAREFULLY APPLIANCE LOCATION CORRECT Tr ainee Signatur e: _________________________________________ 17/06/11 _____________________________________ Hazard No. _________________ Reason Signed: ___________________________________________ 4ppm 1 SOUNDNESS TEST PASS Co 2 8.4 083 123 4567 RGI Tel No: ______________________________________________ THIS DECLARATION CONFIRMS TO YOU THE HOUSEHOLDER,THAT THIS INSTALLATION IS SAFELY INSTALLED IN CONFORMANCE WITH IRISH STANDARD 813 “DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLATIONS”/I.S. EN 1949. THE PERSON WHO ISSUES THIS DECLARATION ACCEPTS SOLE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS ACCURACY. GAS APPLIANCES MUST BE SERVICED ANNUALLY FOR THE SAFE AND EFFICIENT OPERATION OF YOUR APPLIANCES PLEASE REFER TO APPLIANCE USER INSTRUCTIONS. – CUSTOMER GREEN – RETURN TO RGII Co/Co 2 R atio 0.0005 Your gas supplier, appliance manufacturers and Irish Standard 813 for Domestic Gas Installations/I.S. EN 1949 Leisure Accommodation Vehicles recommend that in the interest of safety you have your gas appliances serviced annually AFTER COMMISSIONING, THE SAFE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THIS INSTALLATION FROM THE METER OR LPG CYLINDERS/TANK VALVE INWARDS IS THE SOLE R ESPONSIBILITY OF THE HOUSEHOLDER. C ompany N o: EMERGENCY SHUT BOX Z5 2 1 0 Tr ainee N o: N/A NA JOE PLUMBER RGI Name: ___________________________________________ Tr ainee Signatur e: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ R G I N umber : BLOCK CAPITALS COPIES: WHITE % I HEREBY DECLARE, UNDER MY SOLE RESPONSIBILITY & BEING COMPETENT TO DO SO THAT THE WORK SPECIFIED ABOVE; A. IS CARRIED OUT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF IRISH STANDARD 813 “DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLATION”/I.S. EN 1949 LEISURE ACCOMMODATION VEHICLES B. THAT ALL REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 FOR INSTALLING & TESTING OF THE INSTALLATION PIPEWORK HAVE BEEN MET C . THE COMMISSIONING OF NEW APPLIANCES FITTED ABOVE IS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949 D. THAT THE INSTALLATION PIPE WORK AND/OR APPLIANCE IS GASTIGHT E. THAT THE INSTALLATION AT THIS PREMISES IS SAFE TO CONTINUE TO USE. N OTE: THIS DOCUMENT IS A COMPLETION CERTIFICATE FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE ENERGY (MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT 2006 __________________________________________________________________ FOR YOUR REASSURANCE AND SAFETY PLEASE ENSURE YOU ARE ABLE TO OPERATE THE OFF VALVE WHICH IS LOCATED AT L/H SIDE OF HOUSE METER RGI Tel No. ___________________________________________ FLUE INSPECTED AND ADEQUATE ADEQUATE PERMANENT VENTILATION F LUE GAS ANALYSIS: Co P007 083 123 4567 Your next Service / Safety Check is due on ____________________ N/A NA R G I N umber : REPAIRED AND SERVICED MAXI BOILER IN KITCHEN 17/06/12 NOTE: THIS DOCUMENT IS A COMPLETION CERTIFICATE FOR THE PURPOSE OF THE ENERGY (MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT 2006 BLUE – COPY FOR YOUR RECORDS P007 17/06/11 Date of Test: ____________________ P TO Form G02 Version 3 17/10/11 Notice of Hazard issued YES Fig. 3 Sample Declaration Certificate NO COPIES: WHITE Hazard No. ____________ – CUSTOMER GREEN Reason S upply restored after safety isolation (unlocked) Signed: ___________________________________________ Date of Issue: 17/06/11 _____________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________ – RETURN TO RGII BLUE – COPY FOR YOUR RECORDS P TO Form G03 Version 3 17/10/11 Fig. 4 Sample Declaration Certificate % All details on this Declaration of Conformance (Cert 2) Boiler Replacement MUST be completed. This is important information as it denotes the “Gas Work” that was carried out and declares that this work was carried out in accordance with the Standard for Domestic Gas Installations (I.S.813/I.S. EN 1949). All details on this Declaration of Conformance (Cert 3) Existing Installations MUST be completed. This is important information as it denotes the “Gas Work” that was carried out and declares that this work was carried out in accordance with the Standard for Domestic Gas Installations (I.S. 813/I.S. EN 1949). It also informs the customer of any other “Gas Work” which was not carried out lest there be any misunderstanding. All elements of the declaration must be completed and signed and the copies distributed as instructed in the document (See Fig. 2, page 2 and Fig. 3 and 4 above) The completed top copy (white copy) should be given to, or left for, the householder. The Network Operator/Gas Supplier fitter collects and verifies the second (yellow) copy. If you are not present, please leave in meter box or attached to boiler. The Gas Supplier/Network Operator will not supply gas unless a valid, properly completed conformance declaration is provided for verification. The RGI should retain the blue copy in a secure place, as it may be of use in the future should any difficulties arise as to the safety or acceptability of the installation. the green copy must be returned to rGii within 10 days of issue. SAFETY NOTE Only Registered Gas Installers may issue a Declaration of Conformance. 3 COMMISSIONING THE GAS INSTALLATION Conducting a Soundness Test Before a declaration of conformance is issued, the RGI must carry out a soundness test to ensure there are no leaks in the piped system. SAFETY NOTE A flue gas analyser (which satisfies the requirements of EN50379) must be used for the commissioning of condensing appliances, unless some other specific method is indicated by the particular manufacturer. SAFETY NOTE A flue gas analyser can be used to obtain significant information such as: a) verification of combustion characteristics of appliances b) checking CO concentrations within a premises c) identification of the source of a CO emission For the testing of existing pipework see details on page 5 and I.S. 813, Annex E. SAFETY NOTE A digital gauge may be used provided it is graduated and readable as indicated here and has a current, valid calibration certificate. COPIES OF DECLARATION OF CONFORMANCE (Cert 1,2 and 3) OR TECHNICAL ADVICE /CLARIFICATION OF THE STANDARD I.S. 813 and I.S. EN 1949 ARE AVAILABLE FROM RGII: New pipework, or any pipework that has been modified in its routing and/or materials and components during work carried out, must be put into service or put back into service only if the tests specified in this clause have been carried out and the results are successful (relevant photographs on page 5, Fig. 3 and Fig. 4). The following procedure is applicable for new installations prior to the fitting of a gas meter or the provision of a gas supply, and prior to the issuing of a (“Post-Construction”) Declaration of Conformance. REGISTER of GAS INSTALLERS of IRELAND (RGII) UNIT 9 KCR INDUSTRIAL ESTATE RAVENSDALE PARK KIMMAGE DUBLIN 12 Tel 01 4997998 Email: [email protected] and [email protected] This certification system is designed to ensure that an installation is safe and complies with I.S.813 “Domestic Gas Installations” and/or I.S. EN 1949. The soundness test is carried out as follows: • All work must be carried out by RGIs • During the test any pressure increase must be gradual • Use only a pressure gauge / manometer with clearly marked 1 mbar graduations. • Shut off all appliance valves. • For testing at pressures up to 150 mbar a pressure gauge graduated in mbar and readable to 1 mbar must be used. The installation to be tested must be charged with air, Nitrogen or the appropriate fuel gas to the required pressure, as shown in Table 1. • Allow 5 minutes to ensure temperature stabilisation. • Check gauge / manometer and record exact reading. • After 5 minutes, check again. • If pressure has dropped at all from noted reading, the installation cannot be regarded as sound and must not be commissioned until the leak is repaired and the installation re-tested. THE PUBLIC LISTING OF REGISTERED GAS INSTALLERS IS AVAILABLE AT THE RGII WEBSITE: www.rgii.ie THE PROCEDURES FOR APPLICATION AND REGISTRATION ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT THIS WEBSITE. SAFETY NOTE Any person carrying out “Gas Works” must be registered with RGII. DOMESTIC GAS INSTALLATION SAFETY Steps to ensure safe supply of gas SAFETY NOTE Before gas is supplied Do not, under any circumstances, fill gas pipe with water for testing purposes. Ensure that the requirements listed in the procedure for Cert 1 (PART 1. PRIOR TO SUPPLY OF GAS) are satisfied. The Network Operator/Gas Supplier may carry out an inspection. If at that stage the installation is found to be unsafe or if the Network Operator/Gas Supplier’s copy of the declaration is not present / correct then gas may not be supplied in the interest of safety. After gas is supplied by the Network Operator/Gas Supplier the RGI must: Ensure that the requirements listed in the procedure for Cert 1 (PART 2. AFTER SUPPLY OF GAS) are satisfied. 4 Testing of new installations Purging the installation Every installation must be cleared (purged) of air or air / gas mixture whenever a gas supply is made available for the first time or when an existing system has been shutdown and is being recommissioned. Why is it necessary? A gas / air mixture in the meter or pipework is potentially explosive and it is necessary therefore to ensure that the installation and appliances are left with only a 100% gas concentration. Whilst an appliance may initially light and burn correctly, if there is a pocket of air in the internal installation, the appliance flame may extinguish as the air reaches the appliance burner. Purging and Commissioning Method • All work must be carried out by an RGI. • Purging of a new installation should not be undertaken without completion of a satisfactory soundness test. • Purging from air to gas should be supervised by an RGI. • When admitting gas to the pipework, the pressure rise must be gradual. • Ensure the dwelling is well ventilated. • Ensure there are no naked lights or sources of ignition. • Select a purge point furthest away from the meter and in a well-ventilated area. • If it is necessary to purge from a point in a confined area then the purge should be piped to atmosphere. • For small volumes such as most domestic installations one burner on the cooker hob is an ideal purge point. However, a cooker hotplate unprotected with a flame supervision device should have all burners ignited and supervised until all air has been purged. • For larger volumes (e.g. multi-storey buildings), using a suitable device, the purge gases may be dispersed outside the building to open air or be flared off in open air. Verification of the content of the vented gas should be by measurement of the gas concentration or by calculation of the purged volumes. • When a full flow of gas is verified, for example, by a stable burner flame, other appliances in the dwelling should then be purged. • Commission and gas rate appliances, according to the procedure on page 6. • If appliances are not installed when gas is admitted to the pipework, the valves or fittings installed for connecting the appliances must be sealed in an appropriate manner (e.g. cap, plug). • If appliances are installed when gas is admitted to the pipework, then the appliance valves must be left in the closed position pending the commissioning of the appliances. • Any component forming part of the installation, which was excluded from the pipework test, must be reconnected and the installation, including all components, must be tested at operational pressure (Natural Gas 20 mbar, LPG 37 mbar). • Fill out part 1 of Conformance Cert. Contact Network Operator for meter fit or LPG Supplier for gas connection and leave yellow cert available on site in meter box or attached to boiler. • After the meter/gas supply has been connected to the installation pipework and prior to the admission of gas, the 100/150 mbar test above must be repeated, using air. • If pressure remains stable, then installation can be deemed sound. • If the test is not immediately followed by commissioning, the pressure in the pipework tested must be reduced to working pressure or below and the pipework sealed. • Gas is introduced into the installation and purging carried out. The purge point and test point must then be tested for soundness using either a leak detection fluid or a gas detector. • Relevant test pressures are indicated in Table 1, below. • When carrying out strength or soundness testing on installation pipework, consideration shall be given to extending the test duration to a minimum period of ten minutes where there are: — pipe runs which extend beyond three floors with meters that are remotely located or — installations where any section of the pipework is greater than 28mm NOTE Examples of this type of installation are apartment blocks, multi-occupancy or mixed use buildings, where there are three floors or more, with the meter(s) remotely located. Fig. 5 Pressure test connection at meter outlet SAFETY NOTE Fig. 6 Carrying out the soundness test SAFETY NOTE When carrying out strength or soundness testing on installation pipework, consideration shall be given to extending the test duration to a minimum period of ten minutes where there are: - pipe runs which extend beyond three floors with meters that are remotely located or - installations where any section of the pipework is greater than 28mm. Gas installers must be registered with RGII SAFETY NOTE It is a legal requirement under current legislation that all “Gas Works” must be undertaken and certified by a Registered Gas Installer (RGI) who is registered with the Register of Gas Installers of Ireland (RGII) Gas supply Pressure Natural gas: up to 100 mbar LPG less than 100mbar 100 mbar 1,3 bar Greater than 1,3 bar Table 1 Test pressures for new pipework Test pressure 150% of the operating pressure with a minimum of 100 mbar. 5 Minimum Stabilisation period 5 minutes Test Duration 5 minutes 5 minutes 5 minutes 5 minutes 5 minutes 5 minutes 10 minutes LET-BY TEST – Using Air or Nitrogen as the test medium • Check that all appliances are off, including pilot lights • Turn gas off at main isolation valve. Do not turn on again until all tests are complete and ready for gas. • Check U-Gauge is zeroed and rubber tubes are in good condition. A suitable gas pressure test tee kit with pump and hoses may be used for reducing and increasing pressures within the installation • Attach U-Gauge to test point ensuring a tight fit • release gas pressure from the system either through an appliance or in a well-ventilated area • Increase pressure to 10 mbar (using air/Nitrogen only) • Connect U-Gauge to U-Gauge tube. • Carry out let by test with Customer Isolation Valve (CIV) at meter/tank turned off. • Allow 2 minutes for the temperature of the air within the installation to stabilise • Allow 2 minutes test time • On medium pressure distribution systems, push reset on regulator to observe if any rise occurs. • If U-Gauge indicates a rise, then the CIV is letting-by. Repeat test, if same result occurs again this confirms that the CIV is letting-by. • If part of the primary meter installation fails the Let-By test then the Network Operator/Gas Supplier must be notified immediately to carry out the necessary repair. SAFETY NOTE A flue gas analyser (which satisfies the requirements of EN 50379) must be used for the commissioning of condensing appliances, unless some other specific method is indicated by the particular manufacturer. Prior to putting the completed installation into service, the RGI must ensure: • • • • • • • that the owner/occupier/landlord is issued with a Declaration of Conformance Certificate with part II completed. to give the white copy to the customer and return the green copy to RGII (within 10 days) and retain the blue copy for own record. that the gas installation pipework is purged of air. that appliances are adjusted to their correct gas rate. that any appliance controls are checked for correct operation. that the user is properly instructed. instructions regarding other requirements listed in I.S. 813 clause 14 must be followed SAFETY NOTE The RGI should highlight to the user: • Never to block a vent to appliance(s) and • the importance of keeping the flueways clear; Testing of existing installations When an existing installation, already constructed and commissioned, is being inspected by an RGI to ensure that the installations are safe for continued operation, the checks undertaken must be carried out in accordance with the requirements of Annex E, I.S. 813 Primarily, the following checks must be carried out: • soundness of the installation and connected appliances; • visible condition of accessible gas pipework and flexible connectors; • adequacy of fixed air supply; • effectiveness of any flue or chimney; • appropriateness of appliance location. Test pressure Natural gas 10 mBar LPG 10 mBar Minimum Stabilisation period Test Duration 2 minutes 2 minutes 2 minutes 2 minutes Table 2 — Let by testing for existing installations If no rise occurs the let by test is complete - continue to soundness test. Soundness Test-Using Air or Nitrogen as the test medium: • Do not turn on main isolation valve • Do not admit gas into the installation • Turn all appliance valves on • Increase pressure up to 20 mbar (Nat Gas) or 37mb (LPG)* using Air or Nitrogen only • Temperature Stabilisation Period 2 minutes. • Test Duration for 2 minutes with all appliance valves on. • No pressure drop permitted on pipework. • Check permissible drop on gas appliances allowed. If the soundness test indicates that the pipework is sound but that there is a pressure drop on an appliance then the isolated appliance must be tested using Table 5, page 7. If the result satisfies the requirements of the table, the appliance may be left in use, provided a Notification of Hazard is issued. Soundness/Let-by Test Procedure for Existing Gas Installations with meter fitted/gas supplied (including Let-By Test) Let-By / Soundness testing shall be carried out using Air, Nitrogen or the Appropriate Fuel Gas to the required pressures as set out in I.S. 813 / Annex E. When conducting a let-by/soundness test, note that the test may be affected by the “reservoir” effect. Ensure that the pressure in the system is reduced to zero and that there is no possibility that a reservoir of gas, downstream of the valve in the meter box, is masking a potential leak, by reducing the pressure in the tested system to zero, before the test is undertaken. Type of gas 6 Type of gas Test pressure Natural gas 20 mBar LPG Minimum Stabilisation period Test Duration 2 minutes 2 minutes 2 minutes 37 mBar Table 3 — Soundness test for existing gas installations 2 minutes Maximum Permitted Pressure Drop 0 mBar 0 mBar If no pressure drop is observed the pipework is deemed to be sound, and gas may be re-admitted. *Intermediate pressure pipework shall be tested at operating pressure (typically 0.5 to 1.3 bar) In the event of a pressure drop, all appliances shall be isolated and the test repeated on the pipework only. Type of gas Test pressure Natural gas 20 mBar LPG Minimum Stabilisation period Test Duration 2 minutes 2 minutes 2 minutes 37 mBar Table 4 — Soundness testing of pipework Only 2 minutes Maximum Permitted Pressure Drop 0 mBar 0 mBar If no pressure drop is observed the pipework is deemed to be sound, and gas may be re-admitted. In the event of a pressure drop in the pipework it shall be traced and repaired. If the pipework cannot be immediately repaired the installation shall be correctly isolated (capped or plugged) from the gas supply and a Notification of Hazard is issued. The Network Operator/Gas Supplier should be notified of a safety disconnection of supply to premises. After confirming that there is no leak on the pipework, to identify the cause of the pressure drop, each of the isolated appliances shall be individually tested in accordance with Table 5, below (after ensuring pressure has been brought back to operating pressure using Air or Nitrogen). In the event of a pressure drop in an appliance • If the pressure drop is less than that specified in Table 5, then the appliance may be left in use • If the pressure drop is in excess of that specified, the appliance shall be isolated SAFETY NOTE The cumulative maximum pressure drop for all appliances shall not exceed the values in table 5 below.In each case a Notification of Hazard must be issued, see I.S 813 clause E.9. Type of gas Test pressure Duration Maximum Permitted Pressure Drop (appliances only) Natural gas Operating Pressure 2 minutes 2.5 mBar LPG Operating Pressure 2 minutes Table 5 — Soundness testing of existing appliances 7 0.5 mBar Re-Admission of Gas On completion of any soundness test the test point shall be tested for soundness using the leak detection method outlined in I.S. 813 clause 12.4 After completing a successful Let-By and Soundness Test it is necessary to ensure all the air or nitrogen admitted to the pipework during the tests is purged safely from the installation via a convenient purging point. Care must be taken to ensure that all the air / nitrogen is removed safely to atmosphere. Where a cooker or hob that is not protected by flame supervision is used to purge the gas line it is essential that all burners are ignited and observed until the flame picture stabilises on all the burners. All other appliance should then also be turned on to confirm that the test medium has been safely removed from the pipework. If there is customer resistance to safety isolation of whole or part on the existing system, the RGI shall take the following measures: • Inform User of course of action • Turn off affected part of system, unless prevented by customer • Attach warning notice • Issue a Notification of Hazard • Contact the Gas Supplier immediately LET-BY TEST – Using Fuel Gas as the test medium. (Natural Gas or Liquefied Petroleum Gas) • Check that all appliances are off, including pilot lights • Turn gas off at customer isolation valve located at meter/tank. • Check U-Gauge is zeroed and rubber tubes are in good condition. • Attach U-Gauge tube to test point ensuring a tight fit, release gas pressure down to zero from the system in a well-ventilated area • Turn on CIV and Increase pressure to 10 mbar. Note: Every time the CIV at meter/tank is opened fully and the meter/tank regulator is fully pressurised a reservoir of gas has been created between the CIV and the meter/tank regulator. In every case where this arises it is critical that the reservoir pressure is reduced to below the regulator lockout pressure otherwise it may potentially mask a small gas escape by maintaining the system pressure over the test period via this reservoir. Pressurised Reservoir Potential masking of leak by reservoir gas • • • • • • • Fig. 7 Connect U-Gauge to U-Gauge tube. Carry out let by test with CIV turned off. Allow 2 minutes for the temperature to stabilise Allow 2 minutes test time On medium pressure distribution systems push reset on regulator to observe if any rise occurs. If U-Gauge indicates a rise then the CIV is letting-by. Repeat test, if same result occurs again this confirms that the CIV is letting-by. If part of the primary meter installation fails the Let-By test then the Network Operator/Gas Supplier must be notified immediately to carry out the necessary repair. Type of gas Test pressure Duration Test Duration Natural gas 10mBar 2 minutes 2 minutes LPG 10mBar 2 minutes Table 6 — Let by testing for existing installations If no rise occurs the let by test is complete - continue to soundness test. 8 2 minutes Soundness Test: • Turn on main isolation valve Note: Every time the CIV at meter/tank is opened fully and the meter/tank regulator is fully pressurised a reservoir of gas has been created between the CIV and the meter/tank regulator. In every case where this arises it is critical that the reservoir pressure is reduced to below the regulator lockout pressure otherwise it may potentially mask a small gas escape by maintaining the system pressure over the test period via this reservoir. • Admit gas into the installation to normal operating pressure • Turn all appliance valves on • Ensure pressure is up to 20 mbar (Nat Gas) or 37mb (LPG)* • Temperature Stabilisation Period 2 minutes. • Test Duration for 2 minutes with all appliance valves on. • No pressure drop permitted on pipework. • Check permissible drop on gas appliances allowed. Type of gas Test pressure Natural gas 20 mBar LPG Minimum Stabilisation period Test Duration 2 minutes 2 minutes 2 minutes 37 mBar Table 7 — Soundness test for existing gas installations 2 minutes Maximum Permitted Pressure Drop 0 mBar 0 mBar If no pressure drop is observed the pipework is deemed to be sound and fuel gas may be re-admitted. *Intermediate pressure pipework shall be tested at operating pressure (typically 0.5 to 1.3 bar) In the event of a pressure drop, all appliances shall be isolated and the test repeated, on the pipework only. Type of gas Test pressure Natural gas 20 mBar LPG Minimum Stabilisation period Test Duration 2 minutes 2 minutes 2 minutes 37 mBar Table 8 — Soundness testing of pipework Only 2 minutes Maximum Permitted Pressure Drop 0 mBar 0 mBar In the event of a pressure drop in the pipework it shall be traced and repaired. If the pipework cannot be immediately repaired the installation shall be correctly isolated (capped or plugged) from the gas supply and a Notification of Hazard is issued. The Network Operator/Gas Supplier should be notified of a safety disconnection of supply to premises. After confirming that there is no leak on the pipework, to identify the cause of the pressure drop, each of the isolated appliances shall be individually tested in accordance with Table E.4, below (after ensuring pressure has been brought back to operating pressure using fuel gas). In the event of a pressure drop in an appliance • If the pressure drop is less than that specified in Table E.4, then the appliance may be left in use • If the pressure drop is in excess of that specified, the appliance shall be isolated NOTE: The cumulative maximum pressure drop for all appliances shall not exceed the values in table E.4 below. In each case a Notification of Hazard must be issued, see I.S. 813 clause E.9. Type of gas Test pressure Duration Natural gas Operating pressure 2 minutes LPG Operating pressure Table 9 — Soundness testing of existing appliances 2 minutes Maximum Permitted Pressure Drop 2,5 mbar 0,5 mbar Re-Admission of Gas On completion of any soundness test the test point shall be tested for soundness using the leak detection method outlined in I.S. 813 clause 12.4 If there is customer resistance to safety isolation of whole or part on the existing system, the RGI shall take the following measures: • Inform User of course of action • Turn off affected part of system, unless prevented by the customer • Attach warning notice • Issue a Notification of Hazard • Contact the Gas Supplier immediately 9 SAFETY NOTE Result: When conducting a let-by/soundness test, note that the test may be affected by the “reservoir” effect. Ensure that the pressure in the system is reduced to zero and that there is no possibility that reservoir of gas, downstream of the valve in the meter box, is masking a potential leak, by reducing the pressure in the tested system to zero, before the test is undertaken. If the installation passes this test: Turn on gas at main valve. Test the inlet and pressure point with leak detection fluid and re-light all appliances Additional defects/hazards may be identified when the installation is being checked. Examples of other defects, which require further actions (see I.S. 813, E.8), include: • defective appliance connection; • deterioration of an appliance; • incorrect flexible hose material; • proximity to combustible materials. Safety Actions Where a hazard or a non-conformance is identified a Notification of Hazard/non-conformance must be issued to the owner/occupier/landlord (see sample Notification of Hazard/Non-conformance, Fig. 8, on left). The RGI may decide to affix a warning notice and/or isolate the gas supply to the installation, or part thereof, or to an appliance if deemed appropriate. Any isolation must be such as to require the use of tools to restore the supply. SAFETY NOTE An RGI has a duty of care to issue a Notification of Hazard to the owner/occupier/landlord whenever a hazard or non conformance is identified. SAFETY NOTE When carrying out strength or soundness testing on installation pipework, consideration shall be given to extending the test duration to a minimum period of ten minutes where there are: — pipe runs which extend beyond three floors with meters that are remotely located or — installations where any section of the pipework is greater than 28mm. Fig. 8 Sample Notification Of Hazard A recommendation shall be made to the owner/occupier/landlord/landlord to install carbon monoxide detectors in accordance with I.S. 813, Annex I. SAFETY NOTE The cumulative maximum pressure drop for ALL appliances shall not exceed the value in Table 5 10 RESTORATION OF GAS AFTER SAFETY ISOLATION THE IRISH STANDARDS FOR GAS MAINS AND SERVICES AND STORAGE VESSELS Registered Gas Installers (RGI) may restore gas to a gas installation following a “Safety Isolation” (i.e. after rectification of the hazard) by following the procedure below: The Network Operator/Gas Supplier installs all gas mains and services in accordance with the latest edition of the following Irish Standards: I.S. 329 "Code of Practice for Gas Distribution Mains" & S.R. 12007-5 "Installation of Gas Service Pipes". I.S. 3216 “Bulk storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)”, I.S. 3213 “The storage of LPG cylinders and cartridges” 1. Refer to the Notification of Hazard issued to the customer and complete repair works on the installation 2. Carry out a full inspection on the installation and the associated appliances (Refer to Annex E of I.S. 813) This will include a Soundness test at operating pressure. However, if the pipework has been altered refer to section 13.2 of I.S. 813 FOR DOWNSTREAM OF THE METER/POINT OF DELIVERY Irish Standard I.S.813: "Domestic Gas Installations" applies to installations downstream of the meter. This Standard is the code of practice for LPG and Natural Gas installation requirements downstream of the point of delivery and includes the requirements for meters, appliances and associated pipework in single and multiple occupancy dwellings. Note: When carrying out the soundness test a sealing disc may be fitted in the meter outlet 3. The gas supply may be restored by one of the following means depending on the safety isolation in place; a. Remove cap on inlet pipework and reconnect the pipework to the meter b. Remove Meter Sealing Disc in the outlet of the meter. Irish Standard I.S. EN 1949 applies to the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles. Note: Only one meter washer must be used to seal the connection of the meter outlet All of the above standards can be obtained from the NSAI (National Standards Authority of Ireland). Telephone (01) 8073878. or www.standards.ie 4. Commission all appliances and complete the Annex E safety checks 5. Ensure that no ‘Recalled Appliances’ are connected (Refer to Recalled Appliances Technical Bulletin available from RGII Tel: 01 4997998 or download from www.rgii.ie) 6. Complete the Declaration of Conformance Certificate. Issue the white copy to the customer 7. Contact Bord Gáis Networks or Gas Supplier to report the completion of gas restoration works. You will be asked to provide the Declaration of Conformance Certificate number and the meter reading. Call staff are available from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday and from 9am to 5.30pm on Saturdays. If works take place outside these hours contact Bord Gáis Networks/ Gas Supplier with the details at the earliest opportunity 8. Remove the Safety Isolation Warning Label and attach to the green copy of the Declaration of Conformance. The label and the green copy of the Declaration of Conformance must be returned together as soon as possible (but no later than 10 working days) to RGII. EMERGENCY PROCEDURE If a smell of gas is detected or if a leak is suspected the following action should be taken: a) turn off the meter/emergency control valve b) extinguish all naked flames and remove any source of ignition c) ensure that no one operates electrical lights or power switches (on or off) d) ventilate the premises by opening doors and windows e) have the installation tested for gas soundness Note: See also Fig 9 below. When an RGI has restored a gas supply after a “Safety Isolation” following a Notice of Hazard he must contact the Network Operator/Gas supplier immediately i.e. Bord Gáis at 1850 211 540, Calor Gas at 01 291 6229 or Flogas at 041 983 1041 to report the completion of the gas restoration works. Note that the RGI will be asked to provide the Declaration of Conformance Certificate and the meter reading, where appropriate. Fig. 9 Sample Notification Of Hazard SAFETY NOTE Any person carrying out “Gas Works” must be registered with RGII. The registration period is for 1 year, renewable annually. The RGI must be available for inspection, audit and competency assessment in accordance with the Criteria Document issued by The Commission for Energy Regulation. A formal competency assessment must be undertaken every 5 years, and a valid Certificate of Competency obtained, to maintain registration. 11 SECTION 2 THE METER BOX DOMESTIC PROPERTIES Normally meters are fitted in purpose designed cabinets external to the building.The meter location should be agreed with Gas Supplier in advance of construction commencing. Meter installation must comply with I.S. 813, Annex D, clause D.1.4 Only in certain circumstances (low pressure service) may meters be fitted inside the dwelling and in such instances care should be taken to ensure that the location is well ventilated, accessible and protected from possible impact. Fig. 10: Gas meter box before and after meter being fitted Downstream of the primary meter, the dwelling operator may install a secondary meter to measure the supply of gas to a specific location or appliance. Where this is the case, a permanent notice, calling attention to the special features of the installation, must be displayed adjacent to the primary meter where secondary meters are installed, (preferably the number and locations of such meters should be indicated); Where two or more meters are fitted together, each meter must be marked indicating which dwelling or part thereof is supplied. Please go to page 2 of this document for details on certification of installation and arranging for a LPG or Natural Gas connection. Ins ulation R eces s ed Meter B ox DP C C oncrete floor s lab P ipe clip All pipe joints mus t be outs ide the s leeve 25mm min. S leeve P iping in concrete mus t be protected from corros ion with wrap or P V C coating G round Level P olys tyrene ins ulation Fig. 11: Typical detail of pipe through Cavity Wall SAFETY NOTE An RGI must carry out “Gas Work” in accordance with I.S. 813 or I.S. EN 1949, as appropriate, and must be conversant with the current edition of these standards for the range of “Gas Works” undertaken, including all published amendments to same. This document may be used for guidance purposes but must not conflict with or be used as a substitute for these standards. should any conflict arise, the irish standards take precedence. 12 Fig. 12 - Example of pipe entry with 90º bend in cavity wall (See also Fig. 60 page 38.) Key: a Left open to the outside b Outer leaf c Cavity d Insulation e Inner leaf f Pipe clip g Sleeve h Elbow or bend j Non-setting sealant between pipe and sleeve. Where it enters the building it shall not cover joint between bend and pipe k Grout Compression and mechanical type joints shall not be inside a sleeve Key: a 25 mm b Sleeve c Gas pipe d Non-setting sealant between the gas pipe and sleeve e Grout f Floor finish g Concrete h Plaster ceiling Figure 13 - Example of pipe entry through concrete ceiling or floor 13 GENERAL INFORMATION – SINGLE OCCUPANCY DWELLINGS Building Line The building line is considered the outermost extent of the building structure (archway, balcony or basement) projected vertically on to ground level. Gas mains, services and meters transporting gas at pressure greater than 100mbar are not permitted inside the building line of occupied premises. Under certain circumstances however Gas meters can be positioned inside the building line: • The gas pipework must have a pressure of 100mbar or less. • And there must be no available option of locating the meter externally. • Polyethylene pipework may not be located within a building or in a space that may be potentially enclosed at a later stage e.g. an open porch. In figure 14 below the building line is illustrated by a dotted line: • This building line on the left ends in line with the porch at the gable wall. • The building line shown on the right is further out as this porch/balcony/building overhang is said to be attached to the building. For any queries relating to the building line please call 1850 200 694. Note: Meter not allowed in porch or inside the building line Fig. 14: Building Line drawing • Meter box is not permitted within the porch/building overhang. • Meter box and service installations shall be in accordance with S.R. 12007-5 and I.S. 813. • The gas meter box shall be greater than 300mm away from a flue. Fig. 16: Minimum separation from the Gas Meter box to the Electricity meter Fig. 15: Minimum separation between Gas and other meters • A minimum separation of 150mm from the gas meter box to the ESB box, a minimum separation of 400mm from an electrical distribution board and 300mm from the gas service to any other services. 14 Meter Location Where to locate your meter At the front wall of the building – on either side of the front door, or on either side of a sealed window. Fig 18. Note: This can’t be fitted directly below a window. At the front gable end wall, a maximum of 2 metres from the front corner of the building. Fig 17. Fig. 17: Gable end of property Fig. 18: Meter box either side of the window Fig 23 Fig 21 Fig 20 Fig 18 & Fig 22 Fig 17 Fig. 19: Diagram of possible Meter Locations for a domestic property. 15 The meter box should be accessible from the front of the house. The previous figure 19 gives examples of where the meter box can be placed: On the wall that separates neighbours. Fig.21 i.e. boundary wall. On a nib wall. Fig 20. Fig. 21: Meter box between neighbours wall Fig. 20: Meter box on nib wall On the wall that separates neighbours. Fig 22. i.e. boundary wall. Fig. 22: Meter box between neighbours wall On either side of the front door. Fig 23. Note: This may require impact protection. Fig. 23: Meter box on either side of the door Where not to locate your meter The meter box must not be placed: 1. At the back of the house or behind a gate. 2. Directly above or below an electricity meter. 3. Directly above drains, airbricks, manholes, or an electricity meter. 4. Directly under appliance vents, windows that open or an electricity meter. 5. In a porch or under an overhang which is enclosed or could be enclosed. 6. Where it is liable to cause an obstruction or be subject to vehicular damage. 7. Where access to the meter box may be restricted in an emergency e.g. narrow path. 8. On a stone boundary wall or stone garden wall. 9. Adjacent to an electricity meter, if there is a suitable practical location for it elsewhere. For any queries relating to meter box location please call 1850 200 694. Meter Box types There are two types of meter boxes – surface mounted and recessed. A surface mounted meter box is installed on the property or boundary wall as shown in figure 24. This meter box is more suitable for installation on older buildings converting to natural gas. The meter box will be provided by Network Operator/Gas Supplier and will be fitted at a minimum of 300mm above finished ground level. The meter box will project 264mm outwards from the wall. A recessed meter box is installed in the cavity wall of a building or in a pillar enclosure as shown in figure 25. This type of meter box is generally installed by a builder in a new one-off build or as part of a new extension. The box must be purchased from a building supplier and is not provided by Network Operator/Gas Supplier. If this type of meter box is damaged, Network Operator/Gas Supplier will be unable to install the meter for safety reasons. The meter box must be built into the wall and not screwed or nailed on. The meter box will project 70mm outwards from the wall. 16 To-do list before a meter can be fitted Before the meter can be fitted the following criteria must be satisfied. • Customer must have opened an account with a preferred Gas Supplier. • An appointment has been made with a Natural Gas Supplier to connect the meter. • When the Network Operator/Gas Supplier meter installer arrives to site, an accurately completed Declaration of Conformance must be available for collection (signed by a Registered Gas Installer). Once all of the above is in place and a visual inspection is satisfied, meter is fitted and gas is made available. NOTE: Once the meter has been installed by Network Operator/Gas Supplier the RGI makes the final connection and admits gas. 2.1 Multi-Occupancy Dwellings - General Fig. 24: Surface Mounted Type Meter Box Fig. 25: Recessed Type Meter Box Multi-Occupancy Definition Multi-Occupancy dwelling: A building containing more than two dwellings units. A multiple dwelling can be any of the following: • A purpose built apartment building • An existing single dwelling modified to accommodate a number of separate dwellings • Dwelling units contained in a mixed use building e.g. shops / offices downstairs with dwelling units above Note: A MultiOccupancy dwelling can be serviced by an individual meter to a plant room that connects each dwelling or a separate meter to each single dwelling. Multi-Meter Definition Meter cabinets/manifolds which contain a number of meters are considered multi- meters and are used for multiple dwellings in a building which contains more than 2 dwelling units. General Meter Requirements The meters must be positioned for easy access to, reading or removal. The design or location must protect the meter and its connections against the possibility of corrosion. Meters must not be located where they may be exposed to extreme temperatures or ignition sources (e.g. switch gear). Ventilation of pipework will have a minimum of ½ air change per hour. Pipework and connections to meter must be located at least 0.5 metres away from any electrical equipment or effective ignition sources. Installation up to the Meter The Network Operator/Gas Supplier provide and lay all external underground gas mains, and gas connection pipework up to the point of the meter/vessel location. The preferred location of meter cabinets or compartments is in an enclosure, external to the building outside the building line. Locating meters internally within the building line is only possible when: • it is not feasible to locate meters externally • and natural gas mains pressure is less than 100mbar. Meters may only be located within the building when site design cannot facilitate them externally. A cabinet or compartment can only be placed inside a building if the gas is at a low pressure of 100mbar or less. The location should be chosen in order to allow for the shortest practicable length of gas connection pipework. In the case of locations where multi meters are allowed there are two options available: • Option 1: External Multi–Meter Location consists of locating multi-meter cabinets/manifolds around the development outside the building line. This is preferable as it is easier to service, ensure operation and get to in case of emergency. This is illustrated in figures 26-28. • Option 2: Internal Multi–Meter Location consists of meters being located inside the building line. There are two variations of this option: Variation A: Meters located in Common Areas shown in figure 29. Variation B: Meters located in an Underground Car Park / Open Basement Area shown in figures 30-34, which consists of • Type 1: Top-entry cabinets which are pre-fabricated off site. • Type 2: On-site fabricated meter manifold. The structural housing of externally located meters may be either. • Prefabricated housing is illustrated in figures 35-36. • Purpose-Built housing is illustrated in figures 37-42. 17 2.2 Option 1: External Multi-meter Location The preferred location for meters supplying units in a multi-occupancy building is in an enclosure, external to the building. Meters may only be located within the building when site design cannot facilitate them externally and the gas pressure is ≤100mbar. The structural housing of externally located meters may be either prefabricated or purpose- built (see further information below). Fig. 26: Pre-fabricated meter cabinet Fig. 27: Pre-fabricated meter cabinet Dimensions of each six meter cabinet: 1160mm high x 750mm wide x 300mm deep. Isolation Valve Should be positioned at a minimum distance depending on pressure value. For Medium Pressure (MP) - 4m away. For Low Pressure (LP) - 2m away. 600mm min cover Fig. 28: Diagram of pipework and meter cabinet 18 Outlet Pipework 63mm P.E. service pipe 2.3 Option 2: Internal Multi-meter Location - Above Ground Level Variation A: Meters in common areas If the meters supplying the units in a multi-occupancy building cannot be located externally then they may be located within the building line subject to the following: • Low pressure gas network must be available i.e. service pressure less than 100 mbar (Natural Gas)/150 mbar (LPG). • Meters should be positioned in an area of natural ventilation as close as possible to the external wall where the gas service pipe enters. • Meters may not be located beneath a stairs, unless they are placed within a minimum two hour fire resistant and sealed compartment ventilated directly to the outside of the building. This compartment must not obstruct exits from the building. • Provision should be made for a steel service to enter into the building through a suitable sleeve where traversing a cavity or void (see Fig 29 below). • Care must be taken when locating the external isolation valve where it is freely accessible, e.g. not in a parking area where vehicles may restrict access. • Solid access doors to the cabinet / compartment must be self-closing and non-lockable. • The enclosure, including access doors, must meet the structural and fire resistant requirements applicable to that part of the building. • The ventilation to the outside atmosphere must be provided through suitably sized and constructed ducts, provided at high and low level. Ducts should be protected and constructed to prevent fire damage. • If the compartment is above ground level, each vent should provide 5,000mm2 minimum free area or at least 2.5% of internal floor area, unless it is only ventilated on one side, in which case it is 3.75% of internal floor area, depending on the number of vents, or notional equivalent, whichever is greater. Separation between the meters exits of each ventilating duct to atmosphere must be at least 450mm apart. For Natural Gas, if the compartment is to be positioned below ground level, The Network Operator/Gas Supplier must be consulted for ventilation requirements. LPG meters may not be located below ground. • The dimensions required for different meter arrangements is shown on page 24 of this booklet. (Fig. 42) Note: Meters must always be positioned to avoid the possibility of impact with impact protection provided if necessary. The enclosure, including access doors, must meet the structural and fire retardant requirements per Building Regulations. Ducts are required to provide ventilation for meter compartment. Ducts should be sleeved through cavities,suitably fire rated and provide minimum air openings as detailed above. Min 2m distance from valve to structure External Isolation Valve 600mm min Area Isolation Valve 100mm min cover From Mains PE Pipe At early construction provide Sleeve for Steel Service Pipe. (Service pipe and manifold provided by Gas Networks Ireland.) Fig. 29: Multiple meter within a building 19 Minimum compartment depth of 400mm must be provided for the manifold, not including provision for enclosure or protective barrier Steel Manifold 2.4 Option 2: Internal Multi-meter Location - Below Ground Level Variation B: Underground car park or open basement Meters located in an underground car park or open basement area must have direct access to natural ventilation. Mechanical ventilation may not be relied upon. LPG meters may not be located below ground. However, if located internally, they must be installed at a minimum of 300 mm above finished ground level. There are two types of meters that can be located in an underground car park or open basement area: • Type 1: Top-entry cabinets which are pre-fabricated off site. • Type 2: On-site fabricated meter manifold. Type 1: Top Entry Cabinets pre-fabricated off-site Fig. 30: Top entry cabinet pre-fabricated off site. Fig. 31: Top-entry cabinets in underground car park open basement area Read in conjunction with page 21. • Provision should be made for the steel service to enter into the building through an appropriate sleeve traversing a cavity or void. • The gas service must pass through a ventilated area that is publicly accessible (i.e. providing access for Network Operator/Gas Supplier maintenance at all times). • The gas service may not pass through a protected corridor/stairway/shaft, refuse area or private premises (i.e. dwelling or commercial unit) • Electrical current carrying equipment or cables must not be in contact with or suspended from gas equipment or plant. • Meters must always be positioned so to avoid the possibility of impact with impact protection provided if necessary. • If it is required that the meters or gas service be located in a dedicated room within the basement or in a basement lacking natural ventilation, Network Operator/Gas Supplier must be consulted for specifications and ventilation requirements. • Care should be taken when locating the external isolation valve so that it is freely accessible at all times, e.g. not in a parking area where vehicles may restrict access. 20 Type 2: On-site fabricated meter manifold External Isolation Valve 600mm minimum cover required Min 2m distance from valve to structure Area Isolation Valve 600 mm min From Mains 1800mm max PE Pipe Steel Pipe If manifold is at a level exposed to possible impact, additional provision barrier Steel manifold open to naturally ventilated area At early construction provide suitable sleeve for Steel Service Pipe (Service pipe and manifold provided by Network Operator/Gas Supplier) Manifold located at high level, minimum depth required is 400mm. Fig. 32: Meters in underground car park / open basement area Fig. 33: On-site meter manifold Fig. 34: Supply pipework supported at ceiling level Read in conjunction with page 20. However, if located internally, they must be installed at a minimum of 300 mm above finished ground level. • The meter installation must not be directly located beneath a ventilation grille or in a position liable to cause ingress of water, unless weather protected. • If required at low level a protective barrier must be placed around the meters. Sufficient impact resistance provided by the builder. • In the case of the steel manifold, protection from tamper and impact may be provided by the provision of a suitable steel cage. The use of a steel mesh caging will allow for ease of meter reading. The area isolation valve must remain accessible at all times. For the dimensions required for differing meter manifold arrangements see figure 42 page 24. SAFETY NOTE Meters will not be fitted if the supply pipework is not brought to within 450mm of the meter position, or pipework is not labelled indicating the dwelling or premises it is to supply. 21 2.5 Multi-Meter Compartment Types There are two types of meter cabinets or compartments that are used with multiple meters. Pre-fabricated meters A prefabricated meter cabinet is surfaced-mounted on a wall using the brackets and bolts supplied. The GRP cabinets are pre-drilled at the back to take the threads of the support bolts. The cabinets are to be installed a minimum of 300mm above Finished Ground Level (F.G.L) in order to allow connection by the Network Operator/Gas Supplier. The multi-meter cabinet internals consist of an isolation valve, integral filter, regulator and pre-piped manifold supplying six domestic meter points. The heating installer connects directly to the fixed outlets outside the cabinet. It is not permitted to recess a multi-meter cabinet into the external wall of the building, unless all of the requirements outlined on pages 23 & 24 of this booklet are met. Fig. 35: Apartment Meter Details 22 Purpose built meter compartment A purpose-built meter compartment consists of a welded manifold with individual isolation valves, regulators and domestic valves. The regulators and domestic meter will be installed at a later date. This meter arrangement may be located away from the building or recessed into the outer leaf of the building structure. Note: Purpose built compartments for gas meters are not to be used for any other purpose (e.g. storage of bins or any other equipment.) Fig. 36: Plan Detail Fig. 38: Elevation Outer Leaf Sleeve Pipe Cavity Temperature Resistant Mastic Inner Leaf Fig. 37: Inside meter compartment detail Fig. 39: Sleeving Detail 1. If recessed into the structure of the building or to be placed within the building line the meters must be in a completely sealed compartment with the exception of access and ventilation provided by louvered doors to the outside air. This arrangement is only permitted on a low pressure site i.e. gas pressure ≤ 100mbar (Natural Gas)/150mbar (LPG). 2. The compartment must meet the structural and fire resistant requirements applicable to that part of the building. All voids within and around the compartment must be fully sealed and fire proofed to prevent the ingress of air or gas to the cavity wall or other voids. 23 3. If the enclosure opens to the outside but is set within the building structure then all pipe sleeves or entries into the building must be sealed with an approved fire sealing material. Access doors should not be lockable. Ventilation must be provided to atmosphere in the form of a fully louvered door or in the case of a solid door, vents must be located at the top and the bottom of the door. Each vent must provide a minimum of 5,000mm2 free area, or at least 2.5% of internal floor area, unless it is only ventilated on one side, in which case it is 3.75% of internal floor area, depending on the number of vents, or notional equivalent, whichever is greater. 4. Meter compartments are to be located outside apartment walls in well-ventilated areas provided by the builder. Fig. 40: Purpose-built meter manifold Fig. 41: Purpose built meter manifold in purpose built meter compartment block/brick construction 5. The builder must open ground to allow for steel gas service into the meter compartment. For internal dimensions for various meter configurations, please consult figure 42 below. 2.6 Internal Building Dimensions for various Meter Bank Configurations Fig. 42: Internal Building Dimensions for Various Meter Bank Configurations M Note: If placing meters at low level, always allow for an extra 300mm beneath lowest meter point. All meters must be earth bonded in accordance with the current edition of the ETCI regulations. Refer to Fig. 90 and 91, page 52/53 for further details. 24 MARKING OF METERS All meters in a multiple meter installation must be clearly marked to indicate the dwelling number and floor number supplied by that meter. (Labels available from the Network Operator). External buried pipework from the meter For details of external installation pipework requirements from the meter to the dwelling, please consult Fig.54/55/56/57,pages 36/37. All downstream installation pipework, fittings and auxiliaries of the meter, should be designed so as to operate normally at pressures up to 20 mbar (Natural Gas) and 37 mbar (LPG). T he marking of meters is es s ential for s afe operation, maintenance and accurate billing of gas cons umed. F Fig. 43 Marking of Meters 25 SECTION 3 GAS PIPEWORK GAS INSTALLATION PIPEWORK This section of the RGII Technical Guidance Document refers to gas installation pipework in a traditional domestic building. This guide has been prepared to reflect the requirements of I.S. 813:2002 “Domestic Gas Installations”. The document also provides guidelines for installing Gas to multi-occupancy dwellings i.e. apartments. Additionally, the document also provides guidelines on the application of I.S. EN 1949, the standard which is concerned with the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles. Any person carrying out “Gas Works” must be an RGI and competent to do so in accordance with I.S. 813 ‘Domestic Gas Installations’ and I.S. EN 1949. It is a criminal offence to carry out “Gas Works” if not registered with RGII. This guide, prepared by RGII, is intended to assist installers but is NOT to be used as an alternative to the most up to date edition of I.S.813 or I.S. EN 1949, as appropriate. GENERAL Gas pipework is installed in a dwelling in order to convey gas in a safe manner from the point where delivery is made by the Network Operator (usually at the meter for Natural Gas or second stage regulator/valve for LPG) to connect to the various appliances, which may be installed inside or outside the dwelling. Where gas pipework may be confused with other pipework, it must be colour coded bright yellow (yellow ochre, 08 C 35, BS 4800) or indelibly marked along its entire length with the word “GAS”. Typical appliances which could be provided for when installing pipework include: Central Heating Boiler Water Heater Cooker/Oven/Hob Living Flame Fire Tumble Dryer Outdoor Appliances (e.g. Barbeque, Patio Heater) Gas pipework must be constructed in accordance with the requirements of I.S. 813, as follows: • External above ground Clause 4.5.7.1 • External buried Clause 4.5.7.2 • Internal buried Clause 4.5.7.3 • Internal concealed Clause 4.5.7.4 • Pipework through wall/floor/ceiling Clause 4.5.7.5 • Pipework in voids Clause 4.5.7.6 • Indoor LPG pipework below ground level Clause 4.5.7.7 • Pipework in service shafts Clause 4.5.7.8 • Pipework in stairways and corridors Clause 4.5.7.9 • Pipework in lift shafts Clause 4.5.7.10 In designing and installing domestic pipework every effort should be made to ensure that it forms a robust, serviceable element constructed within the dwelling and will continue to be serviceable and safe for a period not less than the expected life of other services within the building. 26 PIPE MATERIALS Piping materials should be selected by considering mechanical strength, appearance, corrosion potential cost. Copper tubing is normally used for residential gas installation piping. Corrosion protected steel should be used only in external locations where impact damage is a risk. Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (C.S.S.T.) may also be used. Non-metallic pipe shall not be used for internal gas pipework except in the cases of: 1. polyethylene pipe entering in a fire resistant in accordance with S.R. 12007-5 (See I.S. 813, clause 4.5.7.2.10). and 2. Multilayer pipe in accordance with ISO 17484-1 installed in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions (See I.S. 813, clause 4.5.2.4) Material Applicable Standard Steel tubes Steel threaded pipe fittings Stainless steel tube I.S. EN 10255 I.S. EN 10241 EN 10312 BS 6362 I.S. EN 1057 I.S. EN 1254-2 BS 8537 I.S. EN 1555 (all parts) I.S. EN 15266 I.S. EN 29453 ISO 17484-1 Copper and copper alloys (tubes) Compression tube fittings Press fittings Polyethylene (PE) CSST Solder Multilayer/PEX Table 10 — Materials and applicable Standards SAFETY NOTE Polyethylene Pipe may not be brought into any dwelling. If brought above ground, polyethylene pipework must be protected against UV light, impact and sources of heat. (See Fig. 56, Page 37). Where an existing installation is being modified or altered and pipework is temporarily opened to allow work to be undertaken, consideration shall be given to the risks involved in working on installations that contain fuel gas. Before any alterations or modification work commences the installation pipework shall be disconnected from the gas supply or disconnected at the outlet of the meter and the supply shall be capped off with an appropriate gas fitting. Where hot works are being utilised (e.g. soldering, welding, brazing) and it is considered that there may be a risk of residual fuel gas in the pipework igniting, the installation shall be purged free of fuel gas before carrying out any hot works. When re-commissioning the installation, direct purge to fuel gas shall be undertaken (see I.S. 813, Clause 12.2). Pipework shall be installed so that it does not impose excessive stress on devices or components incorporated into the pipework, e.g. meters. Any section of pipework, which is intended to be covered, shall be left accessible until such time as a successful test in accordance with I.S. 813, Clause 12 has been completed. Multilayer pipe, in accordance with ISO 17484-1, shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and ISO 17484-2. 27 APPLIANCE RATING PROCEDURE: FOR RANGE RATED APPLIANCES • Turn all appliances “OFF” • Record the meter reading (e.g. 00048.104 m3, see Fig. 44) • • • Turn the appliance under test to “FULL ON” Fig. 44 Start recording time After exactly two minutes have elapsed record the meter reading (e.g. 00048.188 m3, see Fig. 45) • Subtract first meter reading from second (e.g. 0048.188 minus 00048. • Gas rate is 0.042 m3 per minute or 2.52 m3/hour. (0.042x60) • 104= 00.084 m3 (for 2 minutes) Fig. 45 Heat Input = Gas Rate (m3/hour) X the calorific value of the Fuel (kWh/ m3) • Natural Gas Heat Input = 2.52 m3 /hour x 11.3 kWh/ • LPG (Propane) Heat Input = 2.52 m3 /hour x 26.4 kWh/ m3 = 66.528 kW m3= 28.476 kW SAFETY NOTE Note that the heat input for the same volume of gas is almost 2.5 times greater for LPG, because of its higher calorific value. This is of critical importance and could lead to danger, if incorrect appliance/gas matching takes place. Always ensure that the appliance is connected to the gas for which it is intended. If an analogue meter is being used for this procedure, the calculation is based on the time taken for a complete revolution of the dial shown in Fig 46. Rating the same appliance as on the digital meter above, it will show that it takes 40.4 seconds for a complete revolution (i.e. one cubic foot). The formula to calculate the hourly rate for the appliance using Natural Gas is: SAFETY NOTE 3600 (number of seconds per hour) x 1090 (CV of Nat Gas) 40.4 (Number of seconds) i.e. 3924000 40.4 or 97128 btu/hour For LPG, the calculation is as follows 3600 (number of seconds per hour) x 2550 (CV of LPG) 40.4 (Number of seconds) ) i.e. 9180000 40.4 or 227227 btu/hour For appliances with a non-adjustable gas valve the appliance operating pressure (all appliances) and burner pressure (where applicable) shall be checked and shall be within the range as displayed on the data badge on the appliance and/or in the manufacturers’ instructions before being considered safe. 1 2 3 4 0 0 Fig. 46 28 Ft3 0.5 PIPE SIZING Pipework for domestic installations should be sized to allow sufficient flow to all the appliances assuming they are all on together. The Pipe Sizing Tables are provided to facilitate selection of the appropriate pipe diameters to ensure that the pressure drops are not exceeded at maximum gas demand. If the maximum consumption of all appliances is greater than 6m3 /h, then a larger meter than the standard domestic meter is required. Please contact the Network Operator / Gas Supplier. The maximum permitted pressure loss, under full load, between the meter and any appliance: • Natural Gas, must (with all appliances in normal use) be 1 mbar or less • LPG, between the second or single-stage regulator and any appliance must (with all appliances in normal use) be 3 mbar or less. High Efficiency Condensing Gas Boilers are designed with minimum allowance for under supply of gas volume and it will be very difficult to comply with the manufacturers commissioning instructions if the required gas volume is unavailable. Example: One 6 metre length of 15mm copper piping supplied with Natural Gas at 20 mbar with no fittings or bends attached can only deliver a maximum of 2.1 M3/Hr or 24 KW at its outlet. As there is a 1 mbar pressure drop allowance to any offtake point under I.S. 813 the actual delivered volume will then only be 22.80 so not sufficient to supply a 24 KW boiler. This supply deficiency at the gas appliance connection, becomes even more critical in the case of boilers with nonadjustable gas valves. Be aware that these boiler types are becoming increasingly common in the market place. SAFETY NOTE For appliances with a non-adjustable gas valve the appliance operating pressure (all appliances) and burner pressure (where applicable) shall be checked and shall be within the range as displayed on the data badge on the appliance and/or in the manufacturers’ instructions before being considered safe. SAFETY NOTE The maximum permitted pressure loss,under full load, between the meter and any appliance: for natural gas, must (with all appliances in normal use) be 1 mbar or less and for LPG, between the second or single-stage regulator and any appliance must (with all appliances in normal use) be 3 mbar or less(see Pipe Sizing Tables on following pages). SAFETY NOTE Polyethylene (PE) pipe has an extremely low melting point. Take care when soldering near PE pipe. TYPICAL APPLIANCE CONSUMPTIONS Remember • Keep elbows and tees to a minimum. • Each elbow or branch connection is equivalent to about 0.5m of straight pipe. • Use machine or spring formed bends wherever possible. Typical appliance consumptions (approx) Nat.Gas LPG Conversion Factors (approx) Nat.Gas Domestic Boiler 2.00m3/hr 0.90m3/hr 1.00m3 = 11kW Dryer 0.50m3/hr 0.20m3/hr 1kW = 3,412 Btu/hr Cooker Gas Fire 1.00m3/hr 0.75m3/hr Table 11 — Consumption/Conversion Factors 0.40m3/hr 0.30m3/hr 1.00m3 29 = 37,500 Btu/hr LPG 26kW 88700 Btu/hr PIPE SIZING TABLES P NATURAL GAS T Tube Diameter mm - C opper length m 6 8 10 12 m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW 3 0.13 1.5 0.57 6.6 1.11 12.9 6 0.07 0.8 0.29 3.3 0.69 8.0 9 0.04 0.5 0.19 2.2 0.56 6.5 0.94 10.8 1.7 19 5.1 59 10.3 120 12 0.03 0.4 0.14 1.7 0.52 6.1 0.90 10.5 1.4 17 4.3 50 8.8 102 15 0.03 0.3 0.11 1.3 0.43 5.0 0.76 8.8 1.2 14 3.7 43 7.7 89 20 0.02 0.2 0.08 0.9 0.32 3.8 0.57 6.6 1.0 12 3.2 37 6.5 75 25 0.02 0.2 0.07 0.8 0.26 3.0 0.45 5.2 1.0 12 2.8 32 5.7 66 30 0.01 0.1 0.06 0.6 0.21 2.5 0.37 4.3 1.0 11 2.5 29 5.2 60 40 0.01 0.1 0.03 0.4 0.16 1.9 0.29 3.3 0.7 8 2.1 24 4.3 50 m3/h 15 22 28 Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW 1.65 19.1 3.2 37 9.6 111 19.8 230 1.10 12.8 2.1 24 6.4 74 13.2 153 Note: 1mB ar = 10 N/m2 = 0.1kP a Table 12 — Pipe sizing for copper tubing (source: I.S.813: 2002) TTube Diameter mm - Mild S teel (Natural G as ) length m 6 8 10 12 m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW 3 0.32 3.7 0.88 10.2 2.31 26.8 6 0.15 1.8 0.58 6.8 1.54 9 0.10 1.1 0.54 6.3 12 0.08 0.9 0.40 15 0.06 0.6 0.32 20 0.04 0.5 25 30 40 m3/h 15 22 28 Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW m3/h Heat input kW 1.65 19.1 4.7 55 14.3 166 29.7 345 17.9 1.10 12.8 3.2 37 9.6 112 20.3 235 1.21 14.0 0.94 10.8 2.5 29 7.9 92 16.2 188 4.6 1.02 11.9 0.90 10.5 2.2 26 6.7 78 13.8 160 3.7 0.89 10.3 0.76 8.8 1.9 22 5.9 68 12.3 142 0.24 2.8 0.77 8.9 0.57 6.6 1.7 19 5.0 57 10.6 122 0.03 0.4 0.19 2.2 0.76 8.8 0.45 5.2 1.5 18 4.4 51 9.2 106 0.03 0.3 0.15 1.8 0.63 7.3 0.37 4.3 1.4 17 3.9 45 8.3 97 0.02 0.2 0.12 1.4 0.47 5.5 0.29 3.3 1.3 15 3.3 39 7.0 82 Note: 1mB ar = 10 N/m2 = 0.1kP a Table 13 — Pipe sizing for mild steel (source: I.S.813: 2002) Tube Diameter mm - P olyethylene (Natural G as ) length m Heat input kW 25 mm 32 mm 3 m /h Heat input kW 3 63 mm m /h Heat input kW m 3/h 3 91.1 8.4 189.9 16.4 1144.9 98.7 6 65.0 5.6 127.6 11.0 774.9 66.8 9 51.4 4.4 100.9 8.7 616.0 53.1 12 43.4 3.7 85.5 7.4 523.2 45.1 15 38.0 3.3 75.1 6.5 460.6 39.7 18 34.2 2.9 67.5 5.8 415.1 35.8 21 31.8 2.7 61.7 5.3 380.1 32.8 24 30.6 2.6 57.1 4.9 352.2 30.4 Note: 1mB ar = 10 N/m2 = 0.1kP a Table 14 — Pipe sizing for polyethylene pipe (source: I.S.813: 2002) 30 PIPE SIZING TABLES LPG 6mm 10mm L ength m Heat input kW M /h 3 2,20 0,09 6 1,54 9, 15mm 3 m /h 16,94 0,06 1,32 12 22 mm Heat input kW 3 m /h 0,66 28,82 11,0 0,42 0,05 9,24 1,10 0,04 15 0,88 18 28mm Heat input kW 3 m /h Heat input kW m 3/h 1,116 155,54 6,0 309,1 11,928 19,58 0,756 101,20 3,95 172,0 6,643 0,361 15,40 0,594 81,40 3,14 161,7 6,240 8,14 0,315 13,42 0,522 70,40 2,78 140,8 5,434 0,04 7,26 0,281 11,66 0,450 62,0 2,4 126,5 4,882 0,88 0,04 6,60 0,261 10,12 0,395 55,44 2,14 108,9 4,203 21 0,66 0,03 6,16 0,238 9,68 0,397 50,16 1,93 101,6 3,927 24 0,66 0,03 5,72 0,221 8,21 0,350 46,20 1,78 94,6 3,651 3 Heat input kW NOT E T he heat input is bas ed upon propane at low pres s ure of 37 mbar and 2,5 mbar maximum pres s ure drop over the length of the pipe. Table 15 — Pipe sizing for copper tubing (source: I.S.813: 2002) L ength m 3 8mm Heat input kW 9,90 15 mm 3 m /h 0,38 20 mm 25 mm Heat input kW m /h Heat input kW m /h Heat input kW 82,5 3,18 165,0 6,40 363,0 3 3 m 3/h 14,0 6 6,80 0,27 55,0 2,12 115,5 4,50 247,5 9,60 9 5,70 0,22 44,0 1,70 90,6 3,50 181,5 7,40 12 4,80 0,19 38.5 1,50 77,0 2,97 165,0 6,40 15 4,40 0,17 33,0 1,30 66,0 2,55 143,0 5,50 18 4,00 0,15 29,7 1,15 60,5 2,30 132,0 5,10 21 3,70 0,14 27,5 1,06 56,5 2,19 121,0 4,70 24 3,50 0,13 24,6 0,96 52,8 2,04 110,0 4,20 NOT E T he heat input is bas ed upon propane at low pres s ure of 37 mbar and 2,5 mbar maximum pres s ure drop over the length of the pipe. Table 16 — Pipe sizing for mild steel (source: I.S.813: 2002) Heat input Maximum L ength (26 mm OD) m Maximum L ength (32 mm OD) m kW m 3/h 28.6 30,8 1,104 1,189 72 62 213 184 33,0 35,2 1,274 1,358 54 47 160 140 37,4 1,443 42 125 39,6 1,528 37 111 41,8 44,0 1,613 1,698 33 30 100 90 NOT E T he heat input is bas ed upon propane at low pres s ure of 37 mbar and 2,5 mbar maximum pres s ure drop over the N length of the pipe. NOTE: Table 17 — Pipe sizing for polyethylene pipe (source: I.S.813: 2002) 1. Should an installation be on a temporary supply from an LPG tank, awaiting connection of Natural Gas, the above tables for Natural Gas must be adhered to. 2. Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (C.S.S.T.) and multi-layer piping are also suitable for internal and external installation. Manufacturers should be consulted for information on application and sizing etc. 31 SAFETY NOTE Where an existing installation is being modified or altered and pipe work is temporarily opened to allow work to be undertaken, consideration shall be given to the risks involved in working on installations that contain fuel gas. Meter outlets and valve outlets shall be capped off with an appropriate gas fitting. Where hot works are being utilised (e.g. soldering, welding, brazing) and it is considered that there may be a risk of residual fuel gas in the pipe work igniting, the installation shall be purged free of fuel gas before carrying out any hot works. When re-commissioning the installation, direct purge to fuel gas shall be undertaken (see I.S. 813 clause 13.2). Fig. 47 Correct protection of back-ground material when soldering copper JOINTING OF PIPES Solder Joints Flux should be used sparingly and only applied to the spigot part of the joint. The joint should not be overheated. Residual flux should be wiped from joints after being made. It is known that fluxed, unsoldered joints may satisfy the soundness test; therefore, finished joints should always be visually examined to confirm that the solder has run. When making screwed joints, all threads should be clean and undamaged. Hemp should only be used on threaded joints in conjunction with thread sealing compounds. When jointing paste is used, it must comply with I.S. EN 751-2 and should only be applied to the external thread. Excess paste should be wiped away on completion of the joint. Specially compounded jointing pastes must be used for Gas -white lead based pastes are not acceptable. Solder used in capillary fittings for jointing pipework at an operating pressure not exceeding 100 mbar shall have a melting point not less than 210 °C. SAFETY NOTE • White lead based paste is not allowed • Hemp can only be used with paste complying with I.S. EN 751. Solder used in capillary fittings for jointing pipework at an operating pressure at or exceeding 100 mbar shall have a melting point not less than 450 °C. Mechanical Joints The preferred method of jointing is to use the correct PTFE tape complying with EN 751-3 Liquid PTFE sealant complying with the requirements of I.S. EN 751-2 may also be used. Liquid detergent should never be used when leak testing, it can cause rapid corrosion of copper. The use of union joints or compression fittings is ONLY acceptable where they will be readily accessible to allow correct tightening for a sound joint. They should not be used in concealed locations e.g. ducts, underfloor, etc. Push fit and lock type fittings incorporating plastic and/or rubber components shall not be used to joint metallic gas installation pipework. Mechanical joints shall use sealants conforming to I.S. 813 clause 4.5.4.2 Copper Tube Tube ends should be cut square and any burrs, internal or external, removed. Tube lengths should be checked and cleared of any foreign matter before use. Screwed Joints 32 Sources Of Ignition When making solder joints extreme care should be taken when using a blow lamp or power tool in the vicinity of combustible materials. Adequate protection must be used when working near timber components and bitumised products and polyethylene pipework (see Fig. 47). SAFETY NOTE Breather membrane in the cavity of timber framed houses or the styrofoam insulation in the cavity of the block / brick dwellings is particularly vulnerable and once ignited can spread quickly within the cavity. Rectification could involve complete dismantling of the wall with serious cost implications for the RGI. Corrosion Steel pipes run externally or in damp areas will require protection against corrosion. Copper tube will not normally require corrosion protection when run externally. When supporting pipework externally on top of a horizontal or near-horizontal surface, the support brackets must ensure that the pipework remains clear of the surface. Any metallic pipework run underground or embedded in a solid floor or wall, or passing through a fireplace / builders opening, or in any other potentially corrosive place should be protected against corrosion by one of the methods shown in Fig. 48. PIPEWORK PROTECTION Fire Pipework material, jointing methods and locations should be chosen in order to minimise the risk of a fire in the building causing a pipework failure which might add to the extent of the fire. Protective Wrapping Tape wrapping is normally used at joints or on short lengths. Any tape wrapping applied should extend at least 25mm beyond the surface of the material likely to cause corrosion. All surfaces should be clean and dry before the tape protection is applied. An overlap of 50% is required to provide a layer of double thickness. SAFETY NOTE Fig. 48 Methods of pipe protection Bends and joints on factory coated pipe should be further protected by wrapping with a suitable plastic tape. Mechanical Protection against physical damage and corrosion must be provided where circumstances dictate. Copper tube should only be considered where mechanical damage is unlikely or where it will be enclosed in a mechanically strong protective cover. Sleeves Pipes passing across cavities, including wall cavities, should take the shortest route and be sleeved through the cavity. The purpose of a sleeve is to: • Prevent access gas entering a vulnerable space (e.g. cavity wall) in the event leakage. • To protect the gas installation pipe against corrosion. • To protect the gas installation pipe from damage by normal building movement. • To accommodate normal expansion and contraction of the pipework. SAFETY NOTE Pipework which becomes concealed following house refurbishment/upgrade must be suitably protected. One example where this may occur is after the installation of external wall insulation. Fig. 49 below shows how the pipework and part of the wall-mounted meter box has been unacceptably concealed following this type of refurbishment (See Bord Gáis Network Technical Bulletin on this topic). Before Fig. 49 External wall insulation After X Sleeve Material Sleeves should be made of a material capable of containing gas. Suitable materials include polyethylene, PVC, steel and copper. The selection of the sleeve material should reflect the need for mechanical strength corrosion resistance and / or fire retardance where required. Size of Sleeve The sleeve should be of a diameter that provides a loose fit to the pipe allowing normal pipe expansion / contraction. SAFETY NOTE Pipes / sleeves of dissimilar metal (e.g. steel/copper) should not contact at ANY point. 33 Sealing of Sleeves Sleeves should always be sealed to the surrounding structure with a suitable building material (e.g. mastic, mortar, etc.). When gas pipes enter through an outside wall, the gap between the pipe and the sleeve should be sealed to the pipe at the inner end of the sleeve only with a flexible, fire resisting compound (See Fig. 50, below). Sleeves through internal walls should be sealed to the pipe at entrance and exit (See detail Fig. 50, below). SAFETY NOTE Pipework within a sleeve should not be jointed. Compression and mechanical type joints shall not be inside a sleeve. Fig. 50 Details of pipe sleeve through internal wall Key: a Left open to the outside b Outer leaf c Cavity d Insulation e Inner leaf f Pipe clip g Sleeve h Elbow or bend j Non-setting sealant between pipe and sleeve. Where it enters the building it shall not cover joint between bend and pipe k Grout 34 SECTION 4 PIPEWORK FROM THE METER TO A BUILDING PROVISION OF CUSTOMER ISOLATION VALVES ON EXTENDED PIPEWORK RUNS: P PP Fig. 51 Details of pipe sleeve through internal wall (S ee page 31) Fig.52 Locating isolating values for duplex units S ee page 36 and 37. Fig.53 Locating isolating valves in apartments 35 External above-ground pipework should comply with the following: • The pipework supports shall be appropriate for the pipework size, material and meet the spacing defined in Table 18/19, page 42 • External above-ground pipework shall be protected against mechanical damage. • External above-ground pipework shall be protected against corrosion by using: • a suitable coating, or • non-ferrous materials, or • galvanised pipes with galvanised fittings, or • wrapped pipe, with all joints suitably wrapped. • When supporting pipework on top of a horizontal or near-horizontal surface, the support brackets shall ensure that the pipework remains clear of the surface; SAFETY NOTE All underground pipework should be pressure tested before initial wrapping or covering takes place.. INSTALLATION PIPEWORK FROM THE METER Pipework should be protected against corrosion preferably by using pipes with a factory applied PVC coating. Where copper pipes are run externally exposed to the elements but supported clear of other surfaces, corrosion protection is not normally necessary. Consult page 19 for further considerations. Pipework should not be installed under the foundations of a building nor in the ground under the base of a wall footing or foundation. Installation pipework under concrete paths, (pedestrian traffic only), should have: • Minimum cover of 25mm between sleeve / wrapping and concrete finish, (see Fig. 54 below). • Pipework must be placed in sleeve or have protective wrapping. • All underground pipework should be pressure tested before initial wrapping or covering takes place. Fig.54 Meter on adjacent wall (pipework beneath footpath) Buried pipework in open soil, lawns, or under gravel paths, areas which can be accessed by vehicle should have: • Minimum trench depth of 375mm. • Minimum sand or fine fill surround required in trench of 150mm • When area can be accessed by vehicle (under tarmac, cobblestone, etc.), the pipework must also have a protective sleeve, (see Fig. 55 below). • Support brackets and screws shall be of corrosion resistant materials; • Ferrous materials e.g. screws and support brackets shall not be in contact with copper piping; • Unprotected polyethylene piping shall not be used above ground and shall not be located where it can be subjected to excessive temperatures. • For maximum interval between pipe supports for steel and copper pipes see page 42, Tables 18/19. Fig.55 Meter on adjacent wall (pipework beneath soft ground or vehicular traffic) 36 POLYETHYLENE PIPEWORK Polyethylene (PE) Gas installation piping underground PE piping can be used for underground supply of gas to a premises and is a convenient alternative to metallic pipes when used externally. External buried PE pipework shall be constructed as follows: • Mechanical fittings in accordance with I.S. 266 can be used on buried PE pipework. • Any metallic joints must be wrapped with a minimum of two layers. • PE pipework must be tested to ensure it is gas tight before being covered. • Pipework in soil should be bedded in sand or fine filling to a depth of 150mm above and below the pipe. The minimum depth of cover of the pipe required is 375mm. Compression Fitting PE transition coupling c/w wall bracket NOT E : B oth G R P s leeve and G R P cover mus t be us ed on this s ection. Any RGI engaging in • PE Welding • Electrofusion • Pipework insertion by mole or horizontal drilling in compliance with S.R. 12007-5 should be suitably trained and certified (GDF1 or equivalent). GDF 1 is a Bord Gáis designation (Gas Distribution Fitter Its scope is mains and services up to 125mm diameter. SAFETY NOTE PE pipework should not be laid above 375mm depth of cover regardless of cover material. Above ground fitting Pipework, which may be subject to vehicular loading e.g. under cobble lock driveway, should be, in addition to the minimum depth of cover of 375mm, enclosed in a protective sleeve. SAFETY NOTE G R P s leeve above ground below ground Polyethylene pipe is not allowed within a building. For correct method of entry into building below ground level, see Fig. 57 (below). P V C s leeve bend F Finished Floor Level (FFL) Damp Proof Course (DPC) PVC coated Copper Steel sleeve to terminate 25mm from FFL Non-setting sealant shall be injected between sleeve and service pipe Grout between sleeve and concrete Grout between sleeve and brick Sealant 25mm minimum Fig. 57 Polyethlene-metal transition (supply entering building below ground level) 37 Fig. 56 Polyethlenemetal transition (supply entering building above ground level) SAFETY NOTE Polyethylene-metal transition must be suitable for below ground applications, always consult the supplier. The anti-shear sleeve must be fitted at all times when placing transition beneath the ground. Fig. 58 Below-ground transition fitting with anti-shear sleeve MULTI-OCCUPANCY INSTALLATION PIPEWORK (FROM METER TO RISER) External Underground Should the meters be located a distance away from the building, all pipe runs should travel underground up to the base of the external wall. Pipework from the base of the external wall may travel externally (See Fig. 59) or pass directly into the building (See Fig. 60). All metallic underground pipework must be suitably protected against corrosion and galvanic action. Metallic pipework may not be jointed mechanically underground. All underground installation pipework should be covered to sufficient depth to minimise the risk of impact, or loading damage. Installation pipework from the meter under soft ground or under vehicular traffic must have: • Minimum trench depth of 375mm (additional protective sleeve required when placing supply pipework beneath vehicular traffic). • Minimum sand surround or fine fill cover in trench of 150mm. SAFETY NOTE Polyethylene pipework can only be used externally and must not be taken into the building. Fig.59 Installation Pipework - Rising on External Wall Jointing P.E. pipework underground by compression fitting, electro fusion or butt fusion is acceptable but a competent operative must perform jointing. P.E. pipework must, if taken above ground for any distance, be protected against: • Exposure to high temperature • Exposure to sunlight • Impact or abrasion damage Installation pipework under concrete paths, (pedestrian traffic only, See Fig. 54, page 36) should have: • Pipework in sleeve or protective wrapping (See page 19 for further details) • Minimum cover of 25mm between sleeve / wrapping and concrete finish. • All underground pipework should be pressure tested before initial wrapping or covering takes place. Fig. 60 Installation Pipework - Entry through outside Wall (See also Fig. 12, page 13) 38 Internal Underground Open Basement / Car Park Area: Pipework from the meter should be brought to ceiling level immediately. Pipework travelling along ceilings of an open basement / car park area (See Fig. 61, below), should: • take the shortest path practical from the meter to the rising duct • be coated / protected against corrosion • avoid structural beams where possible • be adequately supported (See Tables 18/19 page 42) • be sleeved through any void or cavity • be colour coded (see page 37). • LPG meters may not be located below ground level S ee Internal DuctContinuous pg 32 S ee Internal Duct-S topped pg 33 Fig.61 Installation Pipework - Entry through outside Wall SAFETY NOTE Indoor LPG pipes below ground level. When installing pipework inside buildings and below ground level, such as in basements, which is continuous or welded, it does not require additional precautions. Where mechanical or threaded joints are used, including for making a final connection to appliances, meters, valves and control devices, a gas detection system shall be provided in the room or space linked to a slam shut valve located outside before the pipe work enters the building. All regulator vents shall be piped to outdoors. These additional requirements do not normally apply to under building car parks which are well ventilated by design. NOTE LPG is heavier than air, see I.S. 813, Annex A. EXTERNAL RISER OPTIONS Pipework concealed in False Rainwater Down-pipe Individual units can be supplied by installation pipework constructed as external “risers” on to an outside wall. For aesthetic reasons such ‘risers’ can be hidden within an enclosure outside the fabric of the building (See Fig. 64 page 40) or within a false rainwater down-pipe, behind pre-fabricated expanded metal duct, suitably weather proofed (Note details below). Fig 62 External Risers-Hidden If placing installation pipework behind a false PVC rainwater down-pipe (backing removed), the down-pipe should be left open top and bottom and secured to the wall. The pipework within should also be adequately supported. 39 E xternal C ladding or B rick C ons truction P os s ible Meter Location (S ee F ig. 27C below) Fig. 63 Installation Pipework behind Cladding / Brick Ventilation Opening External Riser Behind Cladding / Brick (See Figures 63, 64 & 65) If an external riser is to be hidden within an enclosure in the outer fabric of the building, it should be itself sealed from entry to the building and open to the outside air. Openings to the outside air should be provided at the top and bottom of the riser (additional ventilation openings can be provided at intermediary positions, if desired). The minimum free area of each 2 opening must be 5,000mm or 1/500th the cross sectional area of the enclosure, whichever is greater. Fig. 64 Plan View of Brick or Cladding. View A-A Fig. 65 Meter Compartment Detail 40 SECTION 5 PIPEWORK WITHIN A BUILDING PIPES LAID IN FLOORS Open ends of pipework and valve outlets shall be capped off with an appropriate gas fitting. Pipes passing through external walls, cavity walls, masonry walls, solid floors or solid ceilings shall be sleeved. Pipes passing through partition walls do not require sleeving. Where the piping is to be laid on a solid floor slab, the finished floor screed must allow 25mm minimum cover over the installed pipe.: Indoor LPG pipework below ground level, such as basements, shall be continuous or welded throughout its length. When designing installation (pipe sizing) refer to pipe sizing section on page 28 for guidance. Solid or screeded floors Pipework laid in solid floors should be: • Tested for soundness before any protective coating or cover is applied. • Protected against corrosion e.g. factory bonded PVC. • Adequately embedded by at least 25mm below the final floor finish. • Sleeved and taken the shortest practicable route when passing vertically through a solid floor. Fig.66 Pipe run on solid floor slab Fig. 67 Pipe with factory bonded PVC Non-setting fire resistant mastic Grout Gas Pipe 25mm Grout Non-setting fire resistant mastic Fig. 68 Sleeving pipework vertically through floors 41 SAFETY NOTE Compression fittings or unions must not be used on pipes laid in concrete floors. All joints must be kept to a minimum Max.D/8 PIPES LAID IN FLOORS Suspended floors Prior to running pipework below suspended floors, a visual inspection should be carried out to note the position of any electrical cables, junction boxes and ancillary equipment, in order to safely route the gas pipes. Fig. 70 Notching or providing holes in joists Fig. 69 Compression Fittings Where pipes are installed between joists, they should be correctly supported in accordance with the Table 18/19 below: Nominal size mm Mild steel 15 20 25 32 40 50 Stainless steel 15 22 28 35 42 54 Interval for vertical runs m 2,5 3,0 3,0 3,0 3,5 3,5 Interval for horizontal runs m 2,0 2,5 2,5 2,7 3,0 3,0 Table 18 — Maximum interval between pipe supports (steel pipes) Nominal size mm 15 22 28 35 42 54 Interval for vertical runs m 2,0 2,5 2,5 3,0 3,0 3,0 Interval for horizontal runs m 1,2 1,8 1,8 2,5 2,5 2,7 Table 19 — Maximum interval between pipe supports (copper pipes and CSST) PIPES LAID IN FLOORS Timber floors Notches should not be made in joists of less than 100mm depth. The depth of any notch should be sufficient to accommodate fully the pipe or fittings, but should not exceed 12.5% (one eight) of the joist depth. The notch should be located not further than one quarter of the span from an end support; it should be U-shaped when possible and no wider than necessary to accommodate the pipes. Notches should not extend across the joint between the floor boards. SAFETY NOTE Location of under floor pipes should be marked on floor boards using pencil / marker or rotary stamp (see Fig 71). Care should be taken when refixing floor boards to prevent damage to the pipes by nails or screws. Marking areas where pipes are laid Fig. 71 Marking areas where pipes are laid 42 Vertical Pipe Runs (Only) It is not acceptable for pipework to be run horizontally or at any angle other than vertically in a wall chase (see Fig. 73). SAFETY NOTE Such chasing is unlikely to be achieved in walls constructed of 'hollow' blocks. Pipes in solid walls Vertical pipes should be placed in ducts on the wall surface with convenient access. If this is not practical, the pipework may be chased into the wall provided that the depth of the chase does not exceed one third of the depth of the block or brick. In this situation, the pipe should be protected against corrosion. Fig. 72 Preventing the ingress of dirt / water within feeding pipework though concealed spaces Laying pipes Gas Pipework Behind Dry Lined Walls The installation pipework within dry lined walls should be run within purpose designed channels providing adequate protection, ie. metal protection where required. Where it is not possible to do this, then it is acceptable to run the pipe on the wall surface behind the dry lining provided that the pipe is: • Securely fixed and supported. • Joints are kept to an absolute minimum. • The pipe is protected against corrosion. • The pipe is protected against mechanical damage, (see details below, Fig. 74). Care should be taken to prevent the ingress of dirt and water etc. into the pipes. The bore should be examined before installation and the open ends temporarily sealed or plugged prior to running the pipes through dirty areas, for example, below floor boards, (see Fig. 72 above). Gas Pipework behind plastered walls Particular care is required to ensure that pipes hidden in walls do not become a risk due to accidental damage or structural damage due to building settlement. The ingress of gas into voids or cavities must be avoided. Fig. 74 Details of pipework behind dry lining SAFETY NOTE Compression fittings cannot be used when pipes are placed behind plasterboard or in inaccessible positions. Fig. 73 Permitted direction of wall chase (vertical only) Fig. 75 Compression Fittings 43 TIMBER FRAMED WALLS The following issues need to be addressed when considering running gas pipework within the walls of timber framed construction: • Possible interference with or weakening of structural members of the house frame. • Possibility of inadvertent damage to pipework when using plasterboard or other fixings to the inner timber leaf. • Possibility, in the event of a gas escape that: • a dangerous accumulation could occur or • the gas might migrate into the outer cavity, before the escaping gas is smelled by the occupant. • Possibility that natural movement of the structure could damage the pipe. One of the following options, chosen at design stage, can be used to ensure the avoidance of the possibilities listed above. Option 1 Run pipework (* rigid or flexible) in floor slab and exit from the floor to the appliance in front of the finished plasterboard *Compression joints are not permitted in slab.face of the wall - see Fig. 76. Fig. 76 Appliance connection in front of timber leaf Where there is no other option, gas installation pipework may be laid within the timber frame construction provided the following is adhered to: SAFETY NOTE *Compression joints are not permitted in slab. • Any gas pipe run should be kept to a minimum and run vertically within purpose designed channels. • Channels should be fitted with insulation and covered with the vapour barrier and plasterboard to the same standard as the rest of the wall. • Gas pipes should be adequately supported on the studs. • Pipe joints should be kept to an absolute minimum. • Compression fittings must not be used. • Studs should not be notched. Holes in studs and holes and notches in horizontal timber / membranes should be kept as small as possible. • Pipes should be coated copper or stainless steel to avoid corrosion. • Where copper pipes are used, they should be enclosed within a 18 swg steel sheet or equivalent metal plate. (See Fig. 77, page 45). Alternatively, mild steel pipes may be used without further mechanical protection. However, full corrosion protection is required. • Provision should be made for the pipe to accommodate any normal movement of the building. • Where the gas supply point is to be positioned on a separating (party) wall, the pipe should rise in front of the finished plasterboard face. Option 1A Run pipework as above but exit from the floor into a separately constructed channel to exit at the appliance. This channel must not allow gas to move into the timber frame or cavity. Termination must be in front of the finished plasterboard face of the wall. Option 2 All pipework to be run on exposed internal wall surface or in plastic ducting on wall surface or within cupboards. Option 3 Run pipework in timber frame walls using continuous plastic coated soft copper or stainless steel - see Fig. 77, page 45. If copper is used, a protective metal cover must be placed in front of the pipework. Timber framed construction of the inner wall requires particular consideration when it is proposed to run gas installation pipework within it. This should only be considered as a last resort, preferred options are described on the previous pages. SAFETY NOTE Pipes must not be laid within separating (party) walls dividing individual dwellings. 44 Fig. 77 Full storey height riser in timber framed walls Fig. 78 Appliance connection point to the front of timber framed walls INTERNAL PIPEWORK DUCTS For installation of Gas within Duplex units the use of external risers as per Fig. 62, page 39 is the preferred option. If an external riser cannot be facilitated, it is recommended that an internal “filled” duct is used (as per Fig. 81, page 47). MULTI-OCCUPANCY INTERNAL RISER OPTIONS Open Riser Installation pipework rising vertically and left open to the room through which it passes, is acceptable from a standards compliance point of view. However, it is unlikely that such a method of piping would be aesthetically acceptable to the designer or occupants. 45 corrosion resistant material opening to the outside air. • A pipework service shaft shall not affect the integrity of any fire barrier or any protected shaft in the building as defined in the Technical Guidance Documents of the current Building Regulations. • Where necessary provision shall be made for the contraction and expansion of the pipe within the service shaft. • The relationship to other services which may be contained in the service shaft shall be in accordance with Table 20, page 48. In the case of an open riser it is recommended that the pipework should only pass through a common area, or the dwelling/premises it is supplying. Should internal open pipework be used it should be: • Sleeved through and fire stopped at each floor (per Fig. 68 page 41) and, • Constructed of welded steel or continuous / brazed or solder jointed copper tubing and, • Coated and protected against corrosion. Rising Pipework within Ducts The routing of gas installation pipework through ducts is the most frequently applied solution. This may be achieved in one of the following ways, selection dependent on the configuration of the building, the building programme and the aesthetic parameters set out by the designer (See Fig. 79 (right), 80 and 81 on page 47) A service shaft must not affect the integrity of any fire barrier or any protected shaft in the building as defined in the Technical Guidance Documents of the current Building Regulations. Internal Duct – Continuous SAFETY NOTE Gas Pipework in Protected Shafts: If a protected shaft contains a stairway and/or lift, it should not also contain a pipe intended to carry gaseous or liquid fuels. This type of protected shaft must not contain a ventilating duct (other than a duct provided for the purposes of pressurising the stairway to keep it smoke free). Definition of a Protected Shaft: A protected shaft is defined as a shaft which enables persons, air or objects to pass from one compartment to another and is enclosed with fire resisting construction. For further clarification, consult The Building Regulations, Section B. S Pipes in service shafts Service shafts carrying gas pipes should be provided with adequate and suitable means of ventilation, top and bottom, preferably by natural means (See Fig. 64,65 on page 40, Fig. 66 on Page 41 and Fig. 79 on this page). The ventilation should discharge in a safe manner to the open air. Internal pipework in service shafts in multi-occupancy or multi-storey buildings must be constructed as follows: • Where pipework is installed in a vertical service shaft, either the pipe shall be continuous or welded or the service shaft shall be ventilated to the outside air, both at the top and at the base, preferably by natural means to prevent a dangerous accumulation of flammable gases which may occur as the result of a leakage. see also I.S. 813, Annex H. • Where the vertical shaft is fire stopped at each floor, either the pipe shall be continuous or welded or each section of vertical shaft shall be ventilated both top and bottom either into the space containing the shaft when appropriate or alternatively directly to outside air. • Where pipework is installed in a horizontal service shaft, either the pipe shall be continuous, welded or the service shaft shall be ventilated. The air vent openings shall be located so as to ensure that air circulates freely through the entire length of the service shaft. The area of each opening shall be the same as the cross sectional area of the service shaft or, alternatively, fitted with mechanical ventilation equipment or a gas isolation system both of which incorporate a purpose-designed supervision system. If it is not possible to vent a service shaft, the pipe shall be contained within a continuous sleeve of Installation Pipework in Internal continuous ventilated duct Fig.79 Installation Pipework in Internal continuous ventilated duct The construction of the “Continuous Internal Duct” must reflect the fire prevention and structural requirements of the building. The duct must be constructed so as to be impervious to gas / air throughout its length. The continuous internal duct, as illustrated above, must be supplied with adequate circulating air directly from and to atmosphere. This must be provided via openings at both extremes of the fire rated duct. The minimum free area of each 2 opening must be 5,000mm or 1/500th the cross sectional area of the duct, whichever is greater. 46 Ventilation ducts can be routed horizontally over any distance to the base or the top of this duct. Ducts for this purpose should be fire rated or protected against fire. The pipework from the duct can continue its path horizontally in an enclosure once it has exited the continuous duct, provided the lateral duct or sleeve is left open to the duct air, but otherwise sealed per figure 84, 85, 86 and87 of this booklet. SAFETY NOTE Always consult the Building Regulations (TGD’s), Section B. Other services may be contained within this duct (See Table 20, page 48). Consult page 46 – Gas Pipework within Protected Shafts. For alternative options consult Fig. 80 and81 below. SAFETY NOTE If the building arrangement does not suit a Continuous Duct, then a Stopped Duct (Fig. 80) or Filled Duct (Fig. 81) may be adopted. Other services may be contained within this duct (See Table 20, page 48). Internal Duct - Filled Internal Duct - Stopped Fig. 80 Installation Pipework- Stopped and vented top and bottom within each floor The Filled Duct is adopted where provision of ventilation openings is not suitable. In essence, the gas pipework is placed in a duct with the space between the pipework and duct walls filled with a vermiculite cement mix. The installation procedure is as follows: Fig. 81 Installation Pipework within soil pipe with fire-rated surround filling • Factory coated gas pipework is suitably positioned and supported along the service route (the factory coating provides protection from the corrosive effects of the filling material). • All joints must be wrapped with plumbers tape, minimum two layers required, (welded or soldered joints are only permitted). • A duct of suitable material e.g. Wavin Soil Pipe is fixed around the gas pipework, allowing adequate space for Requirements the filling material. The Stopped Duct (Fig. 80), constructed on each floor should have fixed air openings (vents) top and bottom. The • All pipework from the meter to the apartments are 2 pressure tested by the RGI. fixed openings should exceed 5,000mm or 1/500th the cross sectional area of the duct, whichever is greater. Vents • All openings in the duct are sealed and made good, with exception of filling points. can open into a compartment in the building in which the duct is constructed, provided there is adequate air changes • The vermiculite-cement material is mixed at a ratio dictated by vermiculite manufacturers instructions. in that area. Sealed sleeves and fire stops should be • The vermiculite-cement mix is lightly compacted into the properly constructed at each floor. Always consult the void with the duct capped off where necessary. Building Regulations (TGD’s). This type of duct is essentially to hide an “open riser” within the building, details on page 45/46. The stopped duct may be vented to a common area, but not to a private premises. The continuous duct option (Fig. 79) or filled duct option (Fig.81) must take preference where gas pipework travels through either a protected shaft containing a stairs or lift, or a private premise. 47 Vertical or horizontal purpose-laid ducts, containing pipework, should be ventilated at the top and bottom with an open grille. 2 These vents to the duct must have a free area of 5,000mm or 1/500th the cross sectional area of the duct, whichever is greater. The purpose of the vents is to ensure that any escape of gas can transmit to a non-hazardous area and be detected by smell. PVC coated copper or steel pipework Internal ventilated duct Fire resistant material Fig. 82 Internal ventilated ducting Internal ventilated ducting Internal ventilated ducting GAS PIPEWORK AND OTHER SERVICES Gas pipes should not be fitted in lift shafts or protected shafts or in any space where gas could migrate in openings to those shafts. Building services shafts containing compressed air, steam or air conditioning ducts should not be used as a route for gas pipes. Other service H Water Steam (<10BAR) Hot Particular Conditions Permitted Hot Water Steam (>10BAR) Not Permitted Ventilation and Air conditioning Not Permitted Cold and Chilled Water Permitted Gas Pipework should be protected against corrosion Electricity Permitted Telecommunications and Data Permitted Adequate spacing and insulation should be provided based upon the electrical voltage Drainage Permitted Gas Pipework should be protected against corrosion Flammable Liquids and Gases Permitted The spacing and ventilation in shaft shall reflect the hazard rating of the other gases/liquids Oxygen/Commpressed Air Not Permitted Appliance Flues Not Permitted Gas Pipework should be protected against corrosion Adequate spacing and insulation should be provided Table 20 — Relationship between Gas Pipework and other services in building services shafts For further details on the interaction of LPG and Natural Gas pipework and other services, please consult table 20 above. Where a vertical service shaft is divided horizontally by fire-stops (Fig. 80 page 47 or other means, each section between stops should be treated as a separate service shaft. SAFETY NOTE Gas pipework may be accommodated by use of ducts, as described on pages 45, 46 and 47. 48 Protection Where pipework is to be chased into a solid wall, it is of particular importance that high quality corrosion protection is applied, preferably factory bonded PVC. This is to ensure that high levels of moisture within the wall do not have any detrimental corrosive effect on the pipework. Any pipe passing through an internal wall must be sleeved. The sleeve should be sealed to the wall at each side and the pipe to the sleeve at entry and exit. (See Fig. 50, page 34 and Fig. 68, page 41). SUPPORTS AND FIXINGS Fig. 83 Support of pipework to prevent corrosion caused by contact with aggressive surfaces All pipework should be adequately supported to prevent the pipework from coming into contact with surfaces that are likely to cause corrosion (e.g. concrete, masonry, plaster). Supports made from plastic are generally acceptable. (See Table 21 below). It is important to ensure that all pipework supports are permanently and solidly located. SAFETY NOTE Pipes must not be laid within separating (party) walls dividing individual dwellings. This is not considered as suitable pipe support externally Fig. 84 Drive in clip Material Copper Mild Steel (( Normal Size (mm) Up to 15 22 28 35 42 54 Interval for for vertical vertical run run Interval Interval for for horizontal horizontal run run Interval Interval for vertical run (m) 2.0 2.5 2.5 3.0 3.0 3.0 Interval for horizontal run (m) 1.2 1.8 1.8 2.5 2.5 2.7 Pipe Support Distance Up to 15 20 25 32 40 50 2.5 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.5 3.5 Table 21 — Supporting pipework (Horizontally and vertically) 49 2.0 2.5 2.5 2.7 3.0 3.0 INSTALLATION PIPEWORK (FROM THE GAS RISER TO APARTMENT) Supply pipework may be continued horizontally from the “service riser” to travel outside the building structure or internally within the floor screed (note figures 85,86,87 and 88 below). The pipework should only exit the screed in the apartment being supplied. Pipework may traverse a corridor or common area to arrive at the dwelling being supplied. Pipework should not traverse a private premises to supply another dwelling. Where gas supply pipework is laid close to heating system pipework, provision must be made for expansion and contraction of buried pipework. Pipework exposed to concrete must be protected against corrosive elements with protective wrap or PVC coating. Pipework placed in screed must have a minimum cover of 25mm. Only soldered or welded joints are permitted within the screed. Customer Isolation Valve (C.I.V. See page 37 Fig. 86 Gas pipework entering at high level Fig. 85 Gas pipework entering via screed Fig. 87 Gas pipework entering via screed Fig. 88 Gas pipework entering via ceiling void 50 PIPES IN VOIDS Where pipes are to be located in voids, any one of the following should be applied: Air vents terminating in open air must be provided. Openings must be a minimum of 500 square mm for every square metre of void surface area or, The pipe section is welded or continuous throughout its length within the void or, The pipe should be contained within a vented, continuous sleeve (as per Fig. 88 page 50) or, The void filled with an inert material. CUSTOMER ISOLATION VALVE (C.I.V.) Irrespective of supply route, where pipework enters into the apartment or other dwelling, a customer isolation valve should: • be located at the entry point of gas pipework to the dwelling and must remain accessible at all times, • be fitted with a handle easy to operate and capable of fully stopping flow with one quarter turn, and • be permanently marked to show its purpose (Gas Isolation) and show the “on” and “off” positions. Fig. 89 Fire Stop at Floor All pipework traversing through floors should be fire stopped as shown in Fig. 68, page 41. This does not apply if constructing duct as per Fig. 79, page 46. Identification of Gas Pipework All gas pipework in a multi occupancy building must be colour coded bright yellow (yellow ochre, 08 C 35, BS 4800) or indelibly marked along its entire length with the word “GAS”. The operator of the building should, on commissioning and handover, be given a drawing showing the location of all gas pipework in the building. 51 SECTION 6 GAS AND ELECTRICAL CONSIDERATIONS GAS METERS AND ELECTRICAL ISSUES Where gas and electricity meters are fitted sharing the same space they shall be separated by a minimum distance of 150 mm. . An electrical distribution board shall not be within 400mm in any direction from a gas meter or a gas appliance. This shall not apply where the gas meter is located within a separate gas tight enclosure. F Pipework should be installed at least 25mm away from the electricity supply, distribution cables. Otherwise an appropriate electrical insulation material should be wrapped around the pipe to prevent arcing. Gas pipework should always be separated by a minimum of 10mm from other metal piped services. To prevent passage of stray/fault current into the gas service an insulating joint or section shall be fitted into any metallic gas service pipe on the inlet side of the meter. Under no circumstances shall any bonding be connected to the upstream side of such an insulator. Where a primary meter is fitted remote from the house, if the metallic gas installation pipe is buried then a second insulator shall be fitted into the pipe at the point where it enters the house. External pipework above ground shall be electrically continuous with the bonded internal installation. Bonding shall not be made to any primary meter, nor shall any bonding attachment be made within a gas meter cabinet/enclosure. SAFETY NOTE The dimensional details are subject to approval from electricity supplier. Installationininrelation relationtotoelectrical electricalmeters meters etc. etc. Fig. 90 Installation ELECTRICAL CROSS BONDING OF SUPPLY PIPEWORK For meters installed in external meter boxes, the bonding connection should be as near as practicable to the point of entry. Bonding wires should not be connected in the meter box. Fig. 91 External Meter (Cross bonding) F 52 In the case where the meters are installed inside the building, the bond should be located at the meter outlet pipe. Fig. 92 Internal Meter (Cross bonding) ELECTRICAL CROSS BONDING AT BOILER The current edition of I.S.813: 2002 refers to some requirements, which can be found in current editions of the E.T.C.I. wiring regulations including the necessity to cross bond all ‘extraneous metal work including gas supply, water and central heating pipes’. For central heating installations, metallic gas installation pipework must be cross bonded to the metallic flow and 2 return with green/yellow insulated 10 mm cable, see Fig. 93 and Fig. 94, page 54 and 55. Where the dwelling is a new build and the gas installation is being installed for the first time it is the responsibility of the Registered Electrical Contractor to ensure that it meets the requirements of ET 101, National Rules for Electrical Installations. 53 For existing dwellings the following should be adhered to: equipotential bonding or the existing bonding is less than • Metallic gas installation pipework must be equipotentially 6 mm2, the “Gas Work” must not be commissioned until bonded to the main earth terminal at the electrical a green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 cable is installed distribution board using green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 between the metallic gas pipework and the main earth cable. terminal at the electrical distribution board. • Alternatively where it is found that 6 mm2 equipotential • The electrical connection of the green/yellow insulated bonding cable has been installed in the past the existing 10mm2 equipotential bonding cable to the distribution cable is considered acceptable and work may proceed board must be completed by a Registered Electrical on the gas installation. The owner/occupier/landlord must Contractor as defined by major electrical works. be advised in writing to have the electrical installation • Where the existing metallic flow and return pipework has inspected and upgraded to 10 mm2 equipotential been correctly bonded it is permissible to loop these bonding cable by a Registered Electrical Contractor. bonding conductors to the gas installation pipework as • Where it is found that there is no evidence of illustrated in Fig. 92. Fig. 93 - Equipotential bonding where there is a Polyethylene gas service pipe Key: A B C D E F G H Gas boiler Electrical distribution board Main earth terminal (MET) Hot water cylinder Hot water out Cold feed water in Flow to heating system Return from heating system J K L M N P Q R Polyethylene gas service line Gas meter Metallic return from hot water cylinder Metallic flow to hot water cylinder Bonding clamp Existing equipotential bonding New cross bonding Bonding clamp label NOTE 1 Where there is no equipotential bonding or the bonding is considered inadequate see I.S. 813, clauses K.3.2.2 and K.3.2.3 NOTE 2 2 See K.3.1 54 Fig. 94 — Equipotential bonding where there is a metallic service pipe Key: A Gas boiler L Return from hot water cylinder B Electrical distribution board M Flow to hot water cylinder C Main earth terminal N Bonding clamp D Hot water cylinder P Existing equipotential bonding E Hot water out Q 10 mm bonding cable from gas installation F Cold feed water in pipework to MET G Flow to heating R Bonding clamp label H Return from heating S Non-metallic pipework J Metallic gas service line T Insulating joint K Gas meter Note 1 Where there is no equipotential bonding or the bonding is considered inadequate see I.S. 813, clauses K.3.2.2 and K.3.2.3 Note 2 See K.3.3. 55 Digital Multimeter A digital multimeter (DMM) is useful for carrying out some important tests required to be carried out when installing gas appliances. This includes checks for correctness of electrical wiring as well as confirming safety before commissioning is undertaken. The DMM is also useful as a fault finding diagnostic tool. The basic functions of a DMM are: • AC Voltage Measurement (checking supplies) • DC Voltage (testing electronics) • Resistance Measurement (testing components, relays etc.) • Continuity Checks (wiring, fuses etc.) • Polarity The Law Relating to Electrical Works Controlled Works are major electrical installation works (including additions, alterations and/or extensions) which are covered by the National Wiring Rules. Controlled works carried out in a domestic property are also Restricted Works, as specified in The Electricity Regulation Act 1999 (Restricted Electrical Works) Regulations 2013 (per S.I. No. 264 0f 2013). According to this regulation, these works can only be carried out by a Registered Electrical Contractor since 1st October 2013. Restricted Electrical Works are defined as: 1. the installation, commissioning, inspection and testing of a new Electrical Installation which is fixed, fastened or mounted or otherwise secured so that its position does not change and requires connection or reconnection to the distribution network or the transmission network, as the case may be; 2. the modification, installation or replacement of a Distribution Board including customer tails on either side of the Main Protective Device or of an Electrical Installation in any of the special locations listed in Part 7 of the National Rules for Electrical Installations, as the case may be; 3. the installation or replacement of one or more circuits in an Electrical Installation, including the installation of one or more additional protective devices for such circuits on a Distribution Board; or 4. the inspection, testing, certification or reporting of existing Electrical Installations covered by Chapter 62 of the National Rules for Electrical Installations; in a Domestic Property*. Minor electrical works remain outside the scope of Restricted Works. These include the replacement of an electrical accessory such as a light switch, the replacement or relocation of light fitting where the existing circuit is retained or the provision of an additional socket to an existing radial circuit. These types of work, which includes the electrical work associated with the installation of gas appliances and equipment in domestic property, may be carried out by a Registered Gas Installer. *In this context, “Domestic Property” means: (a) A dwelling house, flat or maisonette, including: (i) any surgery, consulting room, office or other accommodation not exceeding 50m2 in total forming part of it and used in a commercial capacity; (ii) any part of its out-buildings or curtilage used for non-commercial purposes; or (iii) its connection to the electricity network; Or (b) A caravan or motor caravan intended for habitation purposes including its curtilage, used for noncommercial purposes, excluding electrical circuits and equipment for automotive purposes; Fig. 95 Multimeter ? Phase tester fig Restricted Electrical Works does not include: a) Electrical works in potentially explosive atmospheres; b) Electrical works in a Commercial Premises setting including MV and HV connection and installations; c) Electrical works on a construction site; d) Electrical works within exhibitions, shows and stands; e) Electrical works on agricultural and horticultural installations; f) Electrical works on public lighting and associated cabling; g) Minor electrical works 56 SAFETY NOTE Installers on sites should check with the building contractor that the electrician is completing all bonding work and the existence of an electrical completion certificate must be confirmed by the RGI before issuing a Declaration of Conformance for the gas installation (see page 3). If the contractor on site does not confirm this, then a copy of the notice (See below) should be affixed to the boiler before issue of a Declaration of Conformance to I.S.813: 2002. Example of Safety Notice ELECTRICAL SAFETY - EQUIPOTENTIAL (CROSS) BONDING Some types of electrical installations are fitted with equipotential bonding, which is the connection of the internal gas and water pipes to the electrical installation’s earth terminal. In particular those installations with Protective Multiple Earthing (P.M.E.) should, for safety reasons, be fitted with equipotential bonding. In the Gas Safety Installation Standard I.S.813: 2002 there is the safety information that any person who carries out installation pipe work should inform the user that electrical bonding must be checked (and if necessary rectified) by a competent person*, in any dwelling where electrical equipotential bonding may be necessary. *For information contact your ELECTRICITY SUPPLIER Fig. 96 Temporary continuity bond SAFETY NOTE For new installations a spur supply shall not be taken from the immersion circuit. This requirement does not apply to existing circuits. Where the connection is taken from an existing immersion circuit, the cross sectional area of the cable shall be at least the same cross sectional area as that of the immersion circuit. Risk of Electrical Shock if Working on Existing Pipework A temporary continuity bond must be used when carrying out any work on the pipework or fittings which will break electrical continuity through them (See Fig. 96 on right). Flexible trailing leads/cords shall not exceed 2 m in length. A temporary continuity bond must be used when carrying out a Cables and flexible cords should be selected having the appropriate voltage and current-carrying capacities.. Cables shall have a cross-sectional area not less than 1,5 mm2 Cu. Flexible cords shall have a cross-sectional area not less than 0.75 mm2 Cu. Where a 4 core cable is required, the phase shall be brown, the neutral blue, the earth green / yellow and the switched phase can be black or grey. Sleeving of conductors is not permitted. Every appliance requiring an electrical supply shall be connected via a double pole switched fused spur capable of interrupting the load current or a suitable socket as indicated by the manufacturer. The device shall be installed within 2m, at a height between 400mm and 1200mm above floor level, and where it can operate without danger. SAFETY NOTE For new installations a spur supply shall not be taken from the immersion circuit. This requirement does not apply to existing circuits. Where the connection is taken from an existing immersion circuit, the cross sectional area of the cable shall be at least the same cross sectional area as that of the immersion circuit. Cables supplying the double pole switched fused spur unit or socket shall be no less than 1,5 mm2. The cable size shall be large enough to be adequately protected by the relevant protective device (fuse RCBO) at the electrical distribution board. 57 Alternatively, where it is found that 6 mm2 equipotential bonding cable has been installed in the past work may proceed on the gas installation. The owner/occupier / landlord shall be advised in writing to have the electrical installation inspected (via a Notification of Hazard/Non-Conformance from) and the bonding upgraded to 10 mm2 equipotential bonding cable by a Registered Electrical Contractor. Where it is found that there is no evidence of equipotential bonding or the existing bonding is less than 6 mm2; the gas installation shall not be commissioned until the bonding is upgraded to meet the requirements of ET 101, National Rules for Electrical Installations. The electrical connection of the 10 mm2 equipotential bonding cable to the main earth terminal (MET) shall be completed by a Registered Electrical Contractor as defined by restricted electrical works, S.I. 264 of 2013. The gas installation pipework shall be bonded to existing metallic heating and water pipework using bonding conductors and green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 cable, see Figure 91. Service lines 1. Where the gas service line is metallic the gas installation pipework shall be equipotential bonded directly to the main earth terminal (MET) using green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 cable, see I.S. 813, Figure 22. 2. The bonding connection shall not be made on the upstream side of any insulating joint fitted in the gas pipe system, see 4 below. Metallic heating and water pipes shall be bonded to the main earth terminal using 10 mm2 cable. 3. A permanent label inscribed “safety electrical connection, do not remove” shall be permanently affixed at each bonding connection. 4. To prevent passage of stray/fault current into the gas service an insulating joint or section shall be fitted into any metallic gas service pipe on the inlet side of the meter. Under no circumstances shall any bonding be connected to the upstream side of such an insulator. 5. Where a primary meter is fitted remote from the building, and there is buried metallic gas installation pipework a second insulator shall be fitted into the pipework at the point where it enters the building. 6. Bonding cable attachment shall not be made within any gas meter cabinet/enclosure or directly to any primary gas meter. 58 A detailed guide to electrical installation requirements are laid out in I.S. 813, Annex K. For easy reference purposes the complete text from I.S. 813, annex K is reporuced below. Annex K (informative) Electrical considerations K.1 General This Annex deals with the requirements for the connection of the electrical supply by a competent person to a gas installation, the associated protective devices (RCBO or MCB and RCD), earthing and equipotential bonding connections necessary for safety, in order to ensure compliance with the National Wiring Rules for Electrical Installations, ET 101, National Rules for Electrical Installations. Other requirements in the Rules may also be applicable, and these should be checked by a competent person. K.2 Electrical supply K.2.1 Cables and connections K.2.1.1 Cables and flexible cords should be selected having the appropriate voltage and current-carrying capacities. Conductors shall have a cross-sectional area not less than 1,5 mm2 Cu. K.2.1.2 Every appliance requiring an electrical supply shall be connected via a double pole switched fused spur capable of interrupting the load current or a suitable socket as indicated by the manufacturer. The device shall be installed within 2m, at a height between 400mm and 1200mm above floor level, and where it can operate without danger. Cables and flexible cords should be selected having the appropriate voltage and current-carrying capacities. Cables shall have a cross sectional area not less than 1.5mm (mm2). Flexible cords shall have a cross sectional area of not less than 0.75mm (mm2) K.2.1.3 The rating of any fuse shall be in accordance with the appliance manufacturers' requirements. See Error Reference source not found. for restriction on positioning of such switches serving appliances in rooms containing a bath or shower. K.2.1.4 Cables supplying the double pole switched fused spur unit or socket shall be no less than 1,5 mm2. The cable size shall be large enough to be adequately protected by the relevant protective device (fuse/MCB/RCBO) at the electrical distribution board. K.2.1.5 For new installations a spur supply shall not be taken from the immersion circuit. K.2.1.6 Care shall be taken not to exceed the temperature rating of the electric cables. Heat resistant wiring shall be used where necessary. K.2.1.7 Flexible cords or trailing leads shall not exceed 2 m in length. K.2.1.8 Where 4 core cable is required, the phase shall be brown, the neutral blue, the earth green/yellow, the switched phase-conductor can be brown, black or grey. Sleeving of conductors is not permitted. Identification of conductors shall be as per table 51A of ET101. A.3 Equipotential Bonding K.3.1 General For central heating installations, metallic gas installation pipework shall be cross bonded to the metallic heating and water pipes with green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 cable. K.3.2 New build dwellings Where the dwelling is a new build and the gas installation is being installed for the first time it is the responsibility of the Registered Electrical Contractor (REC) to ensure that it meets the requirements of ET 101, National Rules for Electrical Installations. K.3.3 Existing dwellings K.3.2.1 Metallic gas installation pipework shall be equipotential bonded to the metallic heating and water pipework or to the main earth terminal (MET) using green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 cable. K.3.2.2 Where the incoming gas service pipe is metallic, a 10mm bonding cable connected directly to the main earth terminal is required. The bonding cable shall be connected to the gas installation pipework downstream of the primary gas meter and any insulating joint and shall also be cross bonded to metallic heating and water pipe. 59 K.3.2.3 Where it is found that 6 mm2 equipotential bonding cable has been installed in the past, work may proceed on the gas installation. The owner/occupier / landlord shall be advised in writing to have the electrical installation inspected (via a Periodic Inspection Report, P.I.R) and the bonding upgraded to 10 mm2 equipotential bonding cable by a Registered Electrical Contractor. K.3.2.4 Where it is found that there is no evidence of equipotential bonding or the existing bonding is less than 6 mm2; the gas installation shall not be commissioned until the bonding is upgraded to meet the requirements of ET 101, National Rules for Electrical Installations. The electrical connection of the 10 mm2 equipotential bonding cable to the main earth terminal (MET) shall be completed by a Registered Electrical Contractor as defined by restricted electrical works, S.I. 264 of 2013. K.3.2.5 The gas installation pipework shall be bonded to existing metallic heating and water pipework using green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 cable, see Figure K.1 K.3.4 Service lines K.3.3.1 Where the gas service line is metallic the gas installation pipework shall be equipotential bonded directly to the main earth terminal (MET) using green/yellow insulated 10 mm2 cable, see Figure 22 K.3.3.2 The bonding connection shall not be made on the upstream side of any insulating joint fitted in the gas pipe system, see A.3.4.4. Metallic heating and water pipes shall be bonded to the main earth terminal using 10 mm2 cable. K.3.3.3 A permanent label inscribed “safety electrical connection, do not remove” shall be permanently affixed at each bonding connection. K.3.3.4 To prevent passage of stray/fault current into the gas service an insulating joint or section shall be fitted into any metallic gas service pipe on the inlet side of the meter. Under no circumstances shall any bonding be connected to the upstream side of such an insulator. K.3.3.5 Where a primary meter is fitted remote from the building, and there is buried metallic gas installation pipework a second insulator shall be fitted into the pipework at the point where it enters the building. K.3.3.6 Bonding cable attachment shall not be made within any gas meter cabinet/enclosure or directly to any primary gas meter. 60 SECTION 7 APPLIANCE CONNECTIONS COOKERS / HOBS AND OVENS All isolation valves fitted shall conform to I.S. EN 331 unless the isolation valve is supplied as part of an appliance (see note in I.S. 813, clause 5.1.1). Taper plug valves shall not be used on installation pipework downstream of a meter unless it is supplied as a part of an appliance. Depending on the appliance the preferred valving methods are shown below. It is necessary to provide an appliance valve as close as possible to each appliance supplied (within 1 metre, in same room). It is necessary to provide an appliance valve as close as possible to each appliance supplied. Depending on the appliance the preferred valving methods are shown below. The location of any cooker shall take account of the following: ⎯ adjoining surfaces at a higher level than the hotplate or open grill shall be adequately protected from scorching or burning; ⎯ cookers shall not normally be located in draughty positions; ⎯ there shall be no curtain in the immediate vicinity of the cooker; and ⎯ there shall be at least 450 mm of clear space between an open grill and any combustible materials above the grill. The location of any built-in cooker shall take account of the following: ⎯ there shall be at least 600 mm of clear space between a hob and any combustible material(s) above the hob; ⎯ it shall be housed in properly constructed units, as specified by the manufacturer; Built-in ovens and hobs, shall be fitted with appliance isolation valve(s) in a location which is accessible for maintenance or other work, see I.S 813, Clause 5 and Figure 2. SAFETY NOTE An isolation valve shall be fitted to each appliance, in accordance with I.S. 813, clause 5.1 SAFETY NOTE Taper Plug type valves (gas cocks) are not permitted. Where a plug and socket connector is used, it must: have a metallic body; automatically shut-off the flow on disconnection; have its socket securely fixed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; be suitable for the particular gas used as flexible connectors are generally not manufactured for use with both LPG and natural gas. Where an appliance (installed before 1st January 2005) incorporates a burner, which is not protected by a flame supervision device and is downstream of either: • a prepayment meter, or • an LPG supply originating outside the building, Fig. 97 Cooker flexible pipe connected to self-closing bayonet valve consideration must be given to fitting an automatic cut-out or automatic warning device.. *A similar flexible pipe (Fig. 98) is available which can used for both LPG and natural gas. This hose has a red stripe along the length of the hose SAFETY NOTE This is intended to provide enhanced user protection in the event of interruption in gas supply. Installation pipework, terminating in a builder's opening which could be used for a solid fuel appliance, shall be disconnected from the gas supply outside the builder's opening and the pipework shall be removed from the builder's opening. On subsequent installation of a gas fire, new installation pipework shall be installed and proved sound in accordance with I.S. 813, Clause 5 as appropriate. 61 Fig. 98 Cooker flexible pipe (LPG and Natural Gas) SAFETY NOTE A CO detector shall be installed in each room containing an open-flued or fixed flueless appliance. A CO detector shall also be installed in each bedroom or located in a corridor within 5 m of the bedroom door. A CO detector should be installed in each bedroom where a room-sealed fan-flued appliance is installed, see Annex I. In the case of concealed extended flues, see 10.9 and C.2 A CO detector shall not be installed in bathrooms. A CO detector should be installed in each bedroom where a room-sealed fan-flued appliance is installed Where the only gas appliance installed is a cooker or hob and oven, only one CO detector is required to be installed as per I.S. 813, I.3.1.3. 62 Where a flexible hose is used it must: • not extend from one room to another; • not pass through any walls, ceilings or partitions; • be provided with integral threaded metallic ends or secured to a nozzle by crimping or (in the case of LPG) by the use of a suitable hose clip (see I.S. 813, clause 5.2.1, and Fig 98 below); • not be used where it may be subjected to temperatures above 40 °C, except when connecting a cooking appliance, in which case refer to I.S. 813, clause 5.2.2.2 ); • be located to preclude the possibility of its coming into contact with an open burner intake (see Fig. 99 below) • be accessible for maintenance; • be installed in such a way as to avoid mechanical damage; • conform with I.S. 813, clause 5.2.2 (i.e. B.S. 669-1 for Natural Gas and B.S. 669-2 or I.S. EN 14800 for Natural Gas and LPG, B.S. 1312 for LPG). L Low Pressure Hose Regulator Jubilee Clip Hose to Appliance Cooker Clip Clip Regulator Gas Cylinder Fig. 99 Cooker flexible pipe (LPG and Natural Gas) More detailed requirements with regard to hoses are outlined in I.S. 813 Where a flexible connection is fitted to a cooker incorporating a drop-down door on its main oven, an anti-tilt device must be fitted (see Fig. 100 (b), below). The cooker shall be levelled in position before connecting to the gas. Where rollers or castors are fitted to a cooker they shall be an integral part of the cooker constructed in a manner which prevents movement of the cooker during normal use. Key a) Flexible connection b) Anti-tilt mechanism 1 Cooker 2 Oven/grill flueway 3 Bayonet connection 4 Flexible hose (maximum length: 1200 mm) 5 Burner air opening 6 Anti-tilt bracket Any new gas cooking appliance installed in accordance with this Standard intended to be used in indoor spaces and rooms shall incorporate a flame supervision device or other system on all burners (including hotplate burners) to ensure that there is no release of unlit gas in a dangerous quantity. A re-ignition device without proof of ignition is not considered acceptable. Note It is advisable to replace cookers with cookers incorporating a flame supervision device on all burners at the earliest possible opportunity. (a) Fig. 100 Example of cooker flexible connection and anti-tilt mechanism 63 (b) Bayonet connection/ Isolating Valve Flexible hose Fig. 101: Cooker connected to cylinder located outside the premises. An isolating valve shall be installed at cooker connection, in accordance with I.S 813, clause 5.1.1. The valve should be fixed to wall plate. 64 valvemust mustbe befitted fittedininadjacent adjacentcupboards cupboardstotothe theleft leftororright rightofofthe theoven oven/ /hob hob AAvalve GG GG A valve must be fitted in in adjacent cupboards to thethe leftleft or right of of theright oven / hob A valve must be fitted adjacent cupboards to right the oven / oven hob / hob Fig. 102 A adjacent cupboards toor the left or of theof A valve valvemust mustbe befitted fittedinin adjacent cupboards to the left or right the oven / hob NOTE G The isolation valve shall be accessible for servicing both appliances and may be fitted in the kitchen unit as illustrated or behind the back panel of the kitchen unit (if a cut out or removable panel is provided for access) or behind a removable panel in front of the kitchen unit or oven assembly. GAS FIRES Valvenear nearbuilders buildersopening opening Valve Fig.103 Valve near builders opening Valve near builders opening Valve near builders opening Valve near builders opening All pipework to be PVC coated copper Ball valve with casing flush to wall surface 8mm wrapped copper - 1m max. run 10mm wrapped copper - 3m max. run Flush fitting ball valve for concealed gas installations Fig. 104 Recessed valve–detail FF F F Recessedvalve–detail valve–detail Recessed Recessed valve–detail Recessed valve–detail SAFETY NOTE F Recessed valve–detail If not fitting the fire as standard: Do not connect or leave live gas pipework to the builders opening. SS SAFETY NOTE SS S If disconnecting and removing a gas fire, the Installation pipework, terminating in a builder's opening which could be used for a solid fuel appliance, shall be disconnected from the gas supply outside the builder's opening and the pipework shall be removed from the builder's opening. On subsequent installation of a gas fire, new installation pipework shall be installed and proved sound in accordance with I.S 813 clause 5.1.2 or 5.1.3 as appropriate. 65 Flue Flue Products of combustion Canopy connected to Flue see I.S. 813, Clause10 Wall Outer limit of incandescent firebed Gas Canopy Angle ≤ 45° Noncombustible surface ≤ 400 mm Flue Catchment area, see Noncombustible surface Flue Seal, see 7.4.2.3 Heated air 7.4.2.7 and 10.5.6 ≥ 100 mm ≥ 300 mm (2) Decorative fuel-effect (DFE) gas fire fitted under a free standing or wall mounted canopy (1) Decorative fuel-effect (DFE) gas fire Products of combustion Angle ≤ 45° Noncombustible surface Radiant heat Products of combustion Closure plate, see 7.4.2.3 Catchment area, see 7.4.2.7 and 10.5.6 Heated air Outer limit of incandescent fire bed Combustion air Gas (4) Radiant - convector gas fire (3) Inset Live Fuel-Effect (ILFE) gas fire with convector box Fig. 105 Examples of Fires When fitting any gas fire it must be done in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions and the requirements of I.S. 813 or I.S. EN 1949, as appropriate. If the gas fire is flued it must be fitted: • using a closure plate, modified to suit the particular installation, or • directly into a flue. If the gas fire is flueless extreme caution should be taken regarding ventilation requirements, as outlined in I.S. 813. The installation of Decorative Fuel-Effect fires and Inset Live Fuel-Effect fires exceeding 15 kW input is not permitted in domestic dwellings. More detailed requirements regarding the installation of gas fires/other heaters are outlined in I.S. 813, clauses 10.2, 10.2.1, 10.2.2, 10.2.3 and 10.2.4 66 Gas Materials All chimneys, flue pipes and flue liners intended for use with gas appliances shall be mechanically robust, resistant to internal and external corrosion, non-combustible and durable under the conditions to which they are likely to be subjected. Flue pipes and components shall be in accordance with: ⎯ BS 715 for sheet metal flues; ⎯ I.S. EN 1859 for insulated metal chimneys; ⎯ I.S. EN 1856-1 for single wall and multi-wall system chimney products; ⎯ I.S. EN 1856-2 for single wall and multi-wall system chimney products with metal flue liners; ⎯ I.S. EN 14471 for system chimney products with plastic flue liners; ⎯ I.S. EN 1457-1 or I.S. EN 1457-2 or equivalent for clay flue linings; or ⎯ I.S. EN 1858 or equivalent for flue blocks. The appliance shall be securely fixed to the hearth and assembled in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions. Chimneys for non-room sealed heating appliances shall comply with I.S. EN 15287-1. Convectors and stoves The manufacturers' instructions with regard to the quantity and assembly of all the components (coals, matrix, ceramics etc) shall be strictly observed. When assembling and installing an ILFE fire, the combination of a flue box, fire bed and front fret, as tested, certified and delivered by the manufacturer shall be used without alteration. Combinations of components other than as described above are not permitted and shall not be installed. Supplementary components or accessories not specified by the manufacturer shall not be added. The dimensions of the ILFE flue shall be in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions but not less than those given in 7.4.2. DFE fires and ILFE fires exceeding 15 kW input shall not be installed in domestic dwellings. For flue systems and chimneys not listed above, only flue systems and chimneys certified to comply with a European Standard and All new appliances shall incorporate an ASD or equivalent safety CE marked shall be installed. device. Fire precautions The outer surface of any flue pipe shall not be closer than 25 mm to any combustible material. Where a twin-wall flue pipe is used, the 25 mm space shall be measured from the internal pipe. Where a flue pipe passes through a hot press or similar space in which combustible materials may be stored an annular cooling space shall be provided around the flue pipe, by fitting a guard not less than 25 mm from the pipe, or by utilising a twin-walled metallic pipe. An open-flued convector or stove incorporating its own draught diverter shall be connected to a flue pipe or to a chimney. There shall be no openings to the flue or chimney other than the appliance draught diverter. If the convector or stove is a flueless appliance, reference shall be made to the requirements of 6.4 and 7.4.1.3. A convector or stove shall be installed following manufacturers' instructions relating to clearances to be provided between combustible surfaces, to the side or above the hot air outlets or when required, to protect the floor below. Where the flue pipe passes from one room to another the integrity Gas connections to this type of appliance shall be made with of any fire resistant barrier through which it passes shall be metallic pipework. maintained. Any flue pipe which is routed through a room not served by the appliance shall be located or protected as to prevent injury to persons who may come into contact with it. Where necessary, precautions shall be taken to protect flues against mechanical damage. A fixed flueless space heater shall not be installed: ⎯ if its rated input exceeds 4,2 kW; ⎯ in bedrooms or bed-sitting rooms; ⎯ in rooms containing a bath or shower; ⎯ in spaces where the atmosphere is likely to contain water or chemical vapours in concentrations which could adversely affect the combustion process or a catalyst if fitted. Gas Fire Hearth Requirements The hearth and its supports shall be of sufficiently robust construction to safely carry the weight of the appliance. The hearth shall be constructed of non-combustible material throughout, with the minimum dimensions defined in Table 22. Detail Thickness of material Horizontal projection forward of the base of the fire radiant Horizontal projection on each side of the fire radiant Horizontal projection forward from the face of the builders opening Height of front edge of hearth above floor Table 22 — Hearth minimum dimensions Fixed flueless space heaters shall be installed in accordance with Table 24 and the manufacturers' instructions. Minimum dimension 12 mm 225 mm 150 mm 300 mm 50 mm Decorative Fuel Effect (DFE) and Inset Live Fuel-Effect (ILFE) fires “DFE fires shall be fitted to a flue with a minimum cross sectional 2 2 area of 24 000 mm if the flue is round, or 32 000 mm if the flue is rectangular, and have a minimum cross sectional dimension of 90 mm.” When a DFE fire is fitted into a fireplace, the front edge of the burner tray shall not protrude beyond the front edge of the fireplace opening, see Figure F.1 and Figure F.2. 67 CENTRAL HEATING BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS Wall Mounted Gas Boiler Fig. 106 Gas Boiler Fig. 107 Boiler Valve Positioning the boiler Boiler Valve The preferred location for a boiler is on, or adjacent to an outside wall. A room sealed boiler, may be located within any room of the dwelling. If located in bathroom / shower, in an enclosed compartment or understairs, additional requirements must be adhered to. (See further information on page 71 and I.S. 813). Clause 615 to 7.2. • SAFETY NOTE SAFETY NOTE When installing LPG appliances or meters below ground level, a gas detection system must be provided in the room in which the appliance is located An automatic valve, operated by the detection system, must be fitted to the gas supply before it enters that part of the building which is below ground. When locating an appliance in a cupboard/hot press, the space containing the appliance shall be a separate enclosure and it shall not contain any other combustible materials. Where the appliance is open-flued, the enclosure shall not be either in or directly connecting to any of the following: — rooms containing a shower or bath; — bedrooms and bed-sitting rooms; — a stairway, landing, corridor or hallway; private garages used for parking a motor vehicle, — or the storage of petroleum. The compartment shall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of I.S. 813, clause 6.5.2 Condensing boilers require a drain facility for the condensate. This must be taken into consideration when the boiler location is being selected. When positioning a condensing boiler the condensate drain pipe must be installed in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions. This may require use of larger bore pipes or insulation for certain locations. SAFETY NOTE If a boiler compartment is situated outside the building, the compartment must be constructed so as to provide permanent weather protection to the appliance and must incorporate adequate frost protection. Additional requirements are needed if placing a gas appliance beneath stairs, as follows: • Ducted warm air heating units, cookers and gas fires must not be fitted under any stairways • No gas appliance must be fitted under the stairway of a multi-occupancy dwelling or under a stairway serving three or more storeys in a single occupancy dwelling. • Open-flued appliances must not be fitted under open thread stairways or open stairways unless they are enclosed in a fireproof compartment in accordance with I.S. 813 and which has a fire resistance of at least 30 minutes. Where a gas appliance is located under a stairway a smoke alarm must be fitted at the apex of the hall/stairs space, as specified in I.S 813. SAFETY NOTE 68 The flue from a condensing boiler should not be located where it is likely to cause a nuisance to neighbours (plume). If no alternative position can be found for such a flue, a flue management kit should be used to divert the flue products away from the neighbouring property. These kits are widely available from manufacturers. Positioning the Boiler (continued) Carbon monoxide detector complying with the requirements of Annex I Type A shall be installed along the route of the flue and in every room through which an exposed extended flue passes. — Where the extended flue is concealed, inspection hatches shall be provided to permit inspection of the flue throughout its entire length. — A type A carbon monoxide detector complying with the requirements of Annex I shall be installed within each concealed space and interlinked to shut down the appliance when in the alarm condition. — A type B "carbon monoxide detector complying with the requirements of Annex I shall be installed in every room through which the flue"void passes and in any room where the " flue" void passes through the ceiling space or attic". — All detectors shall be interlinked (hardwire or wireless (radio frequency link)) and the type A detector controlling the appliance shall shut off the appliance when alarm/alarms are activated. This should be achieved by shutting off the appliance through the use of an electrical relay or a solenoid valve on the gas line. The terminal of a room-sealed flue shall be located in accordance with Table 23, and Fig. 121 and 124. • To avoid condensate build-up and water lodging in the flue, the flue system shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions. • When connecting room-sealed appliances to a shared flue, the capacity of the flue passage shall be sufficient to evacuate the combustion products when all connected appliances are operating at maximum input. The intersection between the appliance flue and a shared flue system must be accessible for inspection. • An exhaust flue pipe serving a room-sealed appliance but not surrounded by an annulus supplying the combustion air to the appliance shall be protected in accordance with I.S. 813, clause 10.3. • Care shall be taken that any locking devices, sealants or bracketing systems supplied by or required by the manufacturer are applied in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions. In certain room-sealed appliances the pressure within the appliance casing is positive. It is essential to ensure that the seal on the casing of this type of appliance is correct (in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions), in good condition and correctly installed. Failure to achieve this will lead to a risk of products of combustion escaping into the room. High levels of Carbon Monoxide could occur, creating a dangerous environment. SAFETY NOTE Open-flued appliances shall be located in accordance with I.S. 813, Table 4. Appliances up to the maximum input rating shown in Table 4, may be fitted in rooms in domestic premises subject to exclusions referred to in Table 4. 69 SAFETY NOTE It should not be possible to directly reach the appliance and controls when standing in any part of the bath or shower tray. (see diagram 110,111 and 112) Ceiling Outside Zones Zone 3 Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone Zone 0 0.6m 3.0m Zone 3 2.25m Requirements for appliances installed in bathrooms are as follows: • Location of a boiler in a bathroom should only be considered where no alternative suitable location is available. • Only room-sealed appliances must be used in rooms containing a bath or shower, and only if permitted by the appliance manufacturer. • For an appliance located inside Zone 0, Zone 1 or Zone 2 (see Fig. 108 and 109 below), the appliance and associated controls must not exceed a rated voltage of 25 Volts a.c. • A room-sealed appliance may, however, be installed in Zone 2 provided that the appliance and controls are located inside an enclosure the opening of which requires the use of a key or tool. • Room-sealed appliances may be installed in Zone 3 only when it is permitted by the appliance manufacturer, in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. • The electrical supply to the appliance must be connected in accordance with the requirements of Annex K, Clause 2, I.S. 813 and must be located outside of the room containing a bath or shower. • Any electrical wiring including controls must be installed per I.S. 813, clause 10. 2.4m Floor Bath Fig. 110 Electrical Zone dimensions (Bath) Zone 2 Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 3 Z 2.25m Zone 0 Ceiling Outside Zones Zone 3 0.6m 2.4m Window Recess Zone 0 0.6m Lower or eual to 3.0m Window Recess 2.4m Floor Shower Basin Zone 2 Fig. 111 Electrical Zone dimensions (Shower Basin) Zone 3 Electrical Zoning in bathroom (Plan) Electrical Zoning in bathroom (Plan) Electrical Zoning in bathroom (Plan) ElectricalZoning Zoninginin inbathroom bathroom(Plan) (Plan) Fig. 108Electrical Electrical Zoning bathroom (Plan) Ceiling Zone 3 Window Recess Zone 2 Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3 Outside Zones 2.25 m Zone 0 F F 0.5m 0.6m 2.4 m F FFig. F 109 Electrical Zoning in bathroom (Section) Zone 3 2.25m 3.0 M Zone 1 Ceiling Outside Zones 70 Zone 0 Lower or eual to 3.0m Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 2 Shower without basin but with permanent partition O Outside Zones 2.4m Fig. 112 Electrical Zone dimensions (Shower without Basin but with permanent partition) Floor Safety of Heating and Hot Water Systems General * The installation of heating and domestic hot water systems is addressed in prS.R. 50-1 and prS.R. 50-3. However when installing gas appliances designed for the purpose of heating and domestic hot water the competent person carrying out the gas installation should ensure that the following safety issues are satisfactorily addressed. * Any part of the heating and domestic hot water system, including any circulation system, feed pipes, vent pipes or expansion vessel should be adequately insulated to prevent freezing. In the case of central heating systems, consideration should be given to fitting a frost thermostat set to bring the system into operation if the ambient temperature falls to approximately 4 °C. Provision should be made for the drainage of the whole system. When locating or supporting a storage water heater, account should be taken of the total weight of the appliance including its full water content NOTE The requirements relating to the installation of any gas appliance designed to heat the water above 105 °C are not addressed in this Annex. Water supply pressure * Where a heating appliance is supplied with water from a main it is essential that: — the mains water pressure should be at all times adequate to operate the gas valve in the case of an instantaneous heater;and — the water pressure at the appliance should not exceed the design operating pressure of the appliance. * Where a heating appliance is supplied with water from a cistern, it is essential that: — the total static head at the appliance should not exceed the design operating pressure of the appliance; and — the effective head of water when in use is sufficient to operate the gas valve in the case of an instantaneous water heater. Mixing devices * Some thermostatic mixing devices or showers are not suitable for use with instantaneous water heaters. The manufacturers' instructions should be followed when installing such a device with an instantaneous water heater. Overpressure protection * Any gas appliance incorporating a closed vessel in which water is heated should incorporate a system to prevent overpressure in the vessel. In commonly installed gasfired water heating appliances this can be achieved in one of the methods described below as appropriate. * Pressure relief safety valves for hot water central heating systems and storage type water heaters * The pressure relief safety valve should comply with the general requirements of I.S. EN ISO 4126-1 and it should: — have a non-adjustable pre-set lift pressure not exceeding 3 bar; — be spring loaded; — have valve and valve seating materials, which will not cause the valve to stick in the closed position. The pressure of the water when heated up to 105 °C should be at least 0,35 bar less than the lift pressure of the safety valve. * The pressure relief safety valve should be fitted either directly to the upper portion of the water ]section or in the hot water flow pipe as near as is practicable to, with no intervening valve or restriction. * The location of the safety valve should be such that it should be accessible for testing. * The location of the safety valve discharge should be such that: 71 — it provides visual indication of valve operation; — in the event of automatic discharge of water or steam the discharge does not create a risk of harm to persons or animals; — in the event of automatic discharge of water or steam the discharge does not create risk of damage to controls or components which effect the operation of the installation; and — the orientation, should prevent the accumulation of materials or water, internally or externally which could interfere with its operation. * Where a pipe is fitted to the pressure relief safety valve to discharge inside the dwelling it shall terminate not more than 100 mm from the floor. * Where a pipe is fitted to the pressure relief safety valve to discharge to the exterior of the dwelling it should be so arranged as to prevent the likelihood of its contents freezing. * Pressure relief for single point and multi-point instantaneous water heaters. These units are activated only by the opening of an outlet and therefore do not normally require additional overpressure protection. Multi-point instantaneous hot-water heaters, should be connected in such a way that any water supply isolation valve fitted upstream of the operating diaphragm or other activation device cannot act as a non-return valve. Should such a situation be possible in an installation then, provision should be made to accommodate thermal expansion of the water in accordance with 4.2. * Non-pressurised (or “open”) hot water central heating systems and storage type water heaters * An open vent pipe of non-ferrous material should be provided from the system and should be connected in such a position as to prevent either discharge of water or intake of air during all normal conditions of service including start- up of any circulating pump. * The open end of this vent pipe should be located so that it can discharge into a purpose provided fill and expansion vessel above the level of the overflow. * The vent pipe should be fitted to the flow pipe from the boiler or otherwise where required by the manufacturers' instructions and should where practicable, rise continuously but in any case, never drop. * If the open vent pipe does not rise continuously then a temperature limiting lock-out device should be fitted. * No manually operable valves or components other than full-bore pipe fittings should be fitted at any point between the boiler and the discharge point of the vent pipe. * The cold water feed should be connected as close to the heat exchanger as is practicable. Instances where the appliance manufacturers' instructions specify other arrangements for the cold feed may be acceptable. * The position of the feed connection relative to the vent connection should be such as to ensure that water is not ejected from the open vent or air drawn into the system under normal operating conditions. Fig. 113 Pressure Gauge Fig. 114 Typical Pressurised System Accessories Checks to ensure this condition does not arise should be made during rapid make up from the supply tank or the start up of any circulating pump. * The cold feed pipe in a domestic installation should not be less than 15 mm nominal internal diameter. * Where the feed pipe and vent pipe are combined through part of their length in accordance with the boiler manufacturers' instructions then the heat exchanger should be protected by the fitting of an overheat thermostat of the manual reset type. * The fill and expansion vessel and cold feed pipe should not supply water for any other purpose. * The fill and expansion vessel should be fitted with an overflow-warning pipe, capable of discharging any overflow directly to the exterior of the dwelling. Pressurised (or “sealed”) systems Filling * Facilities should be provided to facilitate filling of the central heating system with water. * Introducing water periodically to make up for losses from a central heating system should be provided for by means of: a) a supply cistern; b) suitable filler pump; c) by temporary hose connection from a service pipe under mains pressure provided it is removed immediately after use; or d) by a purpose designed filler system incorporating backflow protection in accordance with I.S. EN 1717. * The water supply to a storage type water heater should be provided for by means of: a) connection through a controlling device to an incoming main supplied at or restricted to the appropriate pressure; or b) a supply cistern; or c) suitable filler pump. Pressure indication * A pressure gauge should be permanently connected to the system, preferably at the same point as the expansion vessel and it should have a range of 0 bar to 4 bar. The gauge location shall be such that it is visible at all times. 72 Sealed expansion vessel • The expansion vessel should be connected to the system at a point close as practicable to the heat exchanger. • The connecting pipe should be a minimum nominal diameter of 15 mm, with no restriction or manually operable valve. • The vessel should comply with the requirements of EN 13831or equivalent. It should be of sufficient capacity to accept the expansion of the water contained within the system. • Size of vessel required is dependent upon the water capacity of the Unvented System. Fig. 115 Expansion Vessels INTERLINK SYSTEMS Proprietary interlink equipment/systems should be used for these type of installations (See Fig. 116 below and Fig. 117, on page 74). m nifold ste Sy n Ma tio ibu tr Dis ne Zo Fig. 116 Proprietary Interlink System Graphic 73 ol ntr Co Direct link-up for solid fuel with gas A solid fuel appliance with a water heating capability can be linked into a fully pumped system which has an automatically controlled boiler served by gas, so that either one or both boilers can be used as the heat source. The solid fuel appliance can be an open fire, a conventional boiler, multi-fuel stove or cooker. Fig. 117, below shows the recommended layout for a system in which a solid fuel appliance is linked to a gas appliance. Either appliance can be used as the heat source individually or the two appliances may be used at the same time if required. Heat is provided to the domestic hot water by way of using one of the zones to supply heating to the cylinder coil. The coil connected to this zone is usually controlled in the normal manner by a cylinder thermostat. Fig. 117 Proprietary Interlink System Schematic 74 Dual fuel systems of this type should be designed and operated in compliance with the instructions of the manufacturers of both heating appliances and the proprietary interlink system equipment. EXTERNAL APPLIANCES Al Where appliances such as barbecues, patio heaters, and gas lights etc. are installed remote from the dwelling and the pipes are run underground, an isolation valve should be installed on the supply pipe at an accessible position either internally or externally to where the pipe exits the dwelling. The valve should be labelled showing Alas close as possible Al “GAS OFF” position. Alternatively, these types of appliances may be supplied by gas from an LPG cylinder. Please consult Fig. 118 below and pages 30/31 for pipe run requirements. Fig. 118 External pipework detail Demountable connection (flexible) with integral valve. Fig. 119 Isolation valve Fig. 120 Barbecue point detail 75 SECTION 8 PERMITTED FLUE TERMINATION POINTS & VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS FLUE TERMINATION GUIDELINES Irish standards always take precedence over manufacturer’s instructions, unless manufacturer’s instructions call for additional or more strict requirements. Flue type Room-sealed Flue terminal position Open flues Natural draught mm Fanned draught mm Natural draught mm Fanned draught mm Directly below opening vent. window, air brick, soffit and fascia vents etc A* 300 300 N/P 300 Below gutters, soil pipes B 300 75 N/P 75 Below eaves C 300 200 N/P 200 Below balconies, car port roof D 600 200 N/P 75 From a vertical drain / soil pipe E 75 75 N/P 300 From an internal / external corner F 600 300 N/P 300 Above ground roof or balcony level G* 300 300 N/P 300 From a surface or boundary facing a terminal H* 600 600 N/A 600 From a terminal facing a terminal I* 600 1 200 N/A 1 200 From an opening in a car port (e.g. door, window) into dwelling J* 1 200 1 200 N/A 1 200 Vertically from a terminal on the same wall K* 1 500 1 500 N/A 1 500 Horizontally from a terminal on the same wall L* 300 300 N/A 300 From the wall on which the terminal is mounted M N/A N/A N/A 50 From a vertical structure on the roof N N/A N/A N/A Above intersection with the roof P N/A N/A See Figure 7A Below horizontal hinged windows Q* 1 000 3 000 where the exhaust is directed upwards, otherwise 1 000 N/P 3 000 where the exhaust is directed upwards, otherwise 1 000 Horizontal from door, window, vent or air brick R* 300 300 N/P 300 From an opening of a building directly opposite S 600 2 000 N/A N/A Terminal running parallel to a boundary T 300 300 N/A N/A From a gas meter or gas meter cabinet U 300 300 N/A N/A I.S. 813 N/A NOTE 1 N/P means Not Permitted. – N/A means Not Applicable. NOTE 2 Dimension M relates to fanned draught open flue only, terminating below level of roof. * The distances marked with a * are minimum safety distances and override any lesser dimensions given by the appliance manufacturer. Other distances not marked with a * are to be applied in the absence of any advice from the appliance manufacturer. Table 23 — Permitted locations for flue terminations 76 M Typical Boiler Fan Flue Termination Fig.121 Flue Termination Positions SAFETY NOTE Terminal The requirement for a flue is determined by three criteria. The rated input of the appliance. The period of continuous use. The room volume. The manufacturer’s instructions regarding this requirement must always be followed. Secondary flue It is important to choose the correct fire and fireplace for your home and requirements. There is an ever increasing product range available with new fire technologies available for modern and traditional homes. Before you start searching for your new fireplace one of the most important starting points is determining what fires you can install in your home. Draught diverter Primary flue Open-flued gas appliance Every home is different and Fireplaces Are Us recommend having a installation survey, which we can perform in certain post codes, to help identify the correct class of chimney for your home and if your chimney requires a flue liner. Fig. 122 Natural draught systems take combustion air from the room and the products of combustion travel up the flue by natural draught or ‘flue pull’. This is caused by the difference in the densities of hot flue gases and the cold air outside. The factors which affect the performance of a flue are: • • • • We have provided a basic guide to help you understand the chimney terminology correctly, but we strongly recommend asking a professional to check before you make the purchase. The below descriptions will give you a good idea of what to look for: Height Diameter Route Buoyancy/Convection/Pull effect The strength of the flue pull or draught is increased when the flue gases are hotter or if the flue height is increased. Factors that will slow down the flue pull are 90 degree bends and horizontal flue runs, so these must be avoided. This flue draught is created by natural means and is quite slight, so it is important to design/install a flue carefully to allow for the necessary up-draught. Fans can be fitted in flues to overcome problems and allow more flexibility. Fanned draught flues allow for greater flexibility in the positioning of the appliance. There are two types of fanned draught flue systems: where the fan is an integral part of the appliance (positive pressure) where a fan is located in the outlet to a chimney or flue system (negative pressure) and has been specified or supplied by the appliance manufacturer. Class 1 Pre Cast Flue 77 Fig. 123 Class 2 No Chimney Key: 1 Area surrounding roof lights or windows where flue terminals shall not be located. 2 Area surrounding dormer or structure where dimensions Y and Z shall be applied. W 600 mm Above or adjacent to roof lights or windows X 2 000 mm Below roof lights or windows Y Distance from the dormer or roof structure to the flue Z Clearance distance from the top of the dormer or roof structure to the flue terminal If Y is less than 1 500 mm then Z shall be 600 mm or greater Fig. 124 — Flue terminal locations on roofs near roof structures and openings VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES All appliances require combustion air. Room-sealed appliances are provided with an air supply from atmosphere through a sealed pipe to the appliance, with products of combustion expelled through the flue. This, more often than not, is provided by a concentric flue arrangement. All other appliances require permanent vents from the room to outside air. Recommended venting detail Location and ventilation requirements for flueless appliances are outlined in Table 24 on page 79. SAFETY NOTE Vents must not be adjustable or capable of being closed. SAFETY NOTE The amount of free area from the airbrick and airspace grill should be sought from the manufacturer before fitting. This information should be stamped on the vent itself, or the packaging. Reference must also be made to I.S. 813. Fig. 125 Recommended venting detail 78 Locations and permanent ventilation requirements - flueless appliances Appliance type Fixed space heater (see NOTE 2) Max. Input rate kW 4.2 Locations not permitted Bedrooms Bathrooms Minimum air openings to outside Permanent openings of a minimum of 12 000mm2. The total ventilation requirement shall be equally divided between high and Private garages low level openings on the same wall Rooms without an separated by a minimum distance of 1600mm openable window Shower rooms Mobile space heater 5 Bedrooms Bathrooms Shower rooms Private garages Other requirements All space heaters shall incorporate an oxygen depletion protection device See NOTE 3 Mobile unit whilst appliance in use, openings of 2500 mm2 per kW of rated input subject to a minimum of 6 500mm2, to outside (see NOTE 1 and NOTE 4). All space heaters shall incorporate an oxygen depletion protection device. Mobile space heaters shall have a fixed warning notice stating air requirements. See 7.1.1, 7.1.2 and 7.4.1.1 (I.S. 813) 1. Units Input < 3.0 kW shall be ducted to outside or have 6 500 mm2 provided whilst appliance in use (see NOTE 1 and NOTE 4) See 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. Rooms without an openable window Tumble dryers 7 Bathrooms Private garages 2. Units Input > 3.0 kW shall be ducted to outside and have permanent opening of 6500 mm2 (see NOTE 1) Single point instantaneous water heaters 12 Bedrooms Bathrooms Private garages Rooms < 5 m3 vol Refrigerators 3 Bathrooms Permanent opening of a minimum of See 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. 6500mm2. The total ventilation requirement shall be equally divided between high and low level openings on the same wall separated by a minimum distance of 1 600mm (see NOTE 1). Not required See 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. 1. Room vol. 5 m2 to 11m2: door of room opening directly to outside or a permanent opening of 6500 mm2 (see NOTE 1). All rooms containing a cooker shall have an openable window or extract hood or fan discharging to outside (see NOTE 5). Private garages Cookers, hobs ovents and grills 20 Bedrooms Bathrooms Shower rooms Private garages Rooms < 5 m3 vol 2. Room vol. >11m2: door of room opening directly to outside or normal adventitious airflow. 3. Bed-sitting rooms shall have a permanent opening of 10 000 mm2. NOTE 1 NOTE 2 See also: 7.1.1, 7.1.2, 7.2.4 and 7.2.5. Other than the specific requirements for rooms containing more than one appliance (see 12.1.9) a permanent air opening (not adjustable or capable of being closed) conforming to the current Building Regulations will be sufficient. This type of heater is not normally intended for use as a primary heat source. NOTE 3 As combustion products from this appliance are released directly into the room additional provisions may be needed to avoid condensation and ensure satisfactory air quality. Advice should be sought from the manufacturer of the specific appliance if not included in the manufacturers’ instructions. NOTE 4 NOTE 5 This ventilation may be provided by an openable window or a ventilator. For cookers served by an extract fan/hood see 7.2.9 (I.S. 813) Table 24 — Flueless Appliances-Location/Ventilation SIZING OF VENTS t When sizing vents the critical dimension is the amount of free area required. Physical dimensions of a vent are not of concern, but the amount of free area that is available so that air may pass through it is critical. (Note Table 25 page 80, specific requirements for one of each type of appliance within a room). The manufacturer should have a stamp on their products showing total free area. When two or more open The manufacturer should have a stamp on flued appliances (gas or other fuel) are installed in the same compartment or space, whether or not they are supplied as a combined unit, the aggregate input rating should be used for sizing the vents. If an extraction fan, or cooker hood with an extractor fan, is fitted in the room containing an open appliance, or in a connected space to this room, the size of the vent required 2 should be increased by 500mm for each 30 litre per second maximum extraction fan rate. 79 SAFETY NOTE Where the competent person identifies that the air supply is inadequate and may present a health risk the appliance shall be isolated, see I.S. 813, clause E.9. Where the competent person, having completed the test in accordance with I.S. 813, clause 10.10.3, identifies that the air supply is inadequate and may present a health risk, the appliance shall be isolated. Any isolation shall be such as to require the use of tools to restore the supply, see I.S. 813, clause E.9. Where a hazard is identified a Notification of Hazard shall be issued to the owner/occupier/landlord. Appliance type and input Room volume greater than 10 m3 DFE's 6 500 mm² Open-flued < 7 kW Open-flued > 7 kW and < 14 kW Open-flued > 14 kW Room volume less than 10 m3 10 000 mm² Not required a 3 500 mm² 3 500 mm² b 3 500 mm² minimum b plus 450 mm²/kW above 14 kW 6 500 mm² 6 500 mm² minimum plus 450 mm²/kW above 14 kW a This assumes air tightness of greater than 5 (m3/h)/m2 at 50 Pa. If the air tightness is assessed as being less than 5 (m3/h)/m2 a ventilation opening of 3 500 mm2 shall be inserted. See Annex P for guidance on air tightness. b This assumes air tightness of greater than 5 (m3/h)/m2 at 50 Pa. If the air tightness is assessed as being less than 5 (m3/h)/m2 a ventilation opening of 6 500 mm2 shall be inserted. See Annex P for guidance on air tightness. Note 1: Rooms built in accordance with the 1997 Building Regulations TDG’s have a minimum of 6,500mm2 ventilation, or in excess of 12,000mm2 when a room contains a chimney. To allow this ventilation to count towards the minimum opening required,it must be permanently fixed in the open position. Note 2: As combustion products from this appliance are released directly into the room, additional provisions my be needed to avoid condensation and ensure satisfactory air quality. Advice should be sought from the manufacturer of the specific appliance if not included in the manufacturers instructions. Table 25 Research has shown that it is virtually impossible to reduce the amount of ventilation as a result of natural air permeability 2 in habitable rooms to less than 3500mm . This should be taken into consideration when selecting the size of ventilator required for each installation. SAFETY NOTE Always check the “Free- Air” dimension of ventilator when counting it towards the minimum opening required. 80 Alternative vents Vents may be incorporated in window frames and in doors in order to satisfy the air requirement of gas appliances. The free air requirement must be stated by the manufacturer. Openings must not be adjustable or capable of being closed. The possibility of the existence of common flue arrangements, the use of which is prohibited, must be investigated during the test. INSPECTION AND TESTING OF FLUES If spillage occurs during the test, the flue or chimney must be rectified, otherwise it must not be used. Any chimney previously used must be thoroughly swept before installation commences. Every flue system must be visually inspected, flue flow tested and spillage tested in operation upon completion, to ensure that the combustion products are completely discharged to the outside atmosphere. All flues must comply with the following I.S. 813 requirements: (1) Materials must be in accordance with clause 10.2 (2) Fire precautions shall be taken in accordance with clause 10.3 (3) Existing flues may only be used if in accordance with clause 10.4 It is essential to test the effectiveness of existing flues or chimneys before an appliance is connected to it. Every flue must be visually inspected and flow tested in operation, to ensure that the combustion products are completely discharged to the outside atmosphere. SAFETY NOTE When carrying out this test on a jointed flue pipe it is essential that all joints are visible. The manufacturer’s flueing instructions for the specific appliance involved shall be adhered to. For open flued appliances using natural draught, the flue shall be constructed in accordance with I.S. 813, clause 10.6. When fitting or replacing a gas-fired appliance, any catchment area at the base of the flue must be cleared of all debris. SAFETY NOTE A damaged or incomplete extended flue will permit products of combustion to terminate within the property with a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning to those occupants within the property and in neighbouring properties. SPILLAGE TEST A flue spillage test must be carried out on open-flued appliances by lighting the appliance and introducing smoke at the air inlet(s) to the appliance (critical inlet points may be indicated by the manufacturer). The smoke must: • be drawn into the flue, • not spill from the opening, • not emit from any joint, • be visibly emitted from the terminal. Flue liner in accordance with I.S. 813, clause 10.4.4 must be used During the spillage test, all windows and doors must be in chimney if used for central heating or water heating with output closed and any extraction fan in the room must be switched in excess of 6 kW or if specified by the manufacturer (See Fig. on at its full capacity. 126, below) If there is an extraction fan in a connected room, the test must be repeated with the interconnecting door open and the Terminal fan extracting at its full capacity. Clamp/sealing plate Flexible flue liner Clamp/sealing plate Draught diverter Fig 126 Open-flued gas appliance FLUE FLOW TEST A pre-installation flow test must be carried out by introducing smoke into the base of the flue or chimney. The smoke must: • be drawn in its entirety up the flue/chimney, • not spill from the opening, • not emit from any joint, During the flow test, all windows and doors must be closed and any extraction fan in the room must be switched on at its full capacity. If spillage occurs during the test, the appliance shall be disconnected and reconnection must not take place until an effective solution to the flue defect(s) has been applied. Possible solutions include: • increased height of flue • flue repair, • specialist terminals, • flue fan systems. The possibility of the existence of common flue arrangements, the use of which is prohibited, must be investigated during the test. Where flue fan systems are used they must conform to I.S. 813, clause 10.7 SAFETY NOTE The Need for a Flue The criteria that are used to determine whether an appliance requires a flue is dependent on three points: * The rated heat input of the appliance. * The period of continuous use. * The room volume. SAFETY NOTE 81 Work being carried out on existing extended flue systems shall require the use of a Combustion Flue Gas Analyser. EXTENDED FLUES Before commencing the commissioning, servicing and inspection of a gas appliance, it is critical that the RGI is equipped with the appliance manufacturers’ instructions and correct tools including, where required, a calibrated flue gas analyser (which satisfies the requirements of EN 50379). The Irish Standard for Domestic Gas Installations (I.S. 813) and the relevant manufacturers’ instructions must be adhered to when installing and servicing gas appliances. All requirements including those relating to Flueing, Ventilation and Permitted Location must be adhered to. Open Flue Appliances INDIVIDUAL Natural Draught It is essential that “The effectiveness of any flue or chimney” be checked in all types of flues including standard flues, non-concealed flues and chimneys. However, this section of the Technical Guidance Document provides guidance and clarity on the additional steps to be taken at gas installations where the flue is concealed and extended within a duct or a void (i.e. roof spaces, studs, walls, ceilings etc.) See Fig. 128, page 83. Fanned Draught Room Sealed Types When carrying out a service or repair on a gas installation which includes a concealed extended flue the following additional steps must be carried out, as well as those required by Annex C of I.S. 813. INDIVIDUAL Definitions Extended Flue: A fanned flue with system with more than two joints, the two joints being the joint at boiler flue Inlet/outlet and the joint at the terminal. An extended flue system can be horizontal or vertical. Concealed: Where access is not available to visually inspect each joint on a concealed extended flue system. Concentric Flue System: A concentric flue system is a flue system that has the exhaust pipe located inside Flue System the outer air intake flue pipe. The terminal point of the inner exhaust pipe is located beyond the point of air intake to ensure the exhaust products do not enter the air intake point. Concentric flue systems can be horizontal or vertical. Concentric Flue come as standard 60/100 mm and also 80/125 mm for longer flue runs. Twin Flue System: A flue system where the air intake and exhaust flue pipes are separate and are System connected individually to the gas boiler. Twin flue systems can be horizontal or Vertical. Mixed Flue System: A flue system where both twin flue and concentric flue pipes are used. This type Systems of flue system will normally commence in twin flue pipes and convert to concentric flue at the terminal location. It is also possible for a flue to start as a concentric flue and convert to twin flue on the run to the terminal position. 82 Natural Draught Fig. 127 Typical Flue Types Fanned Draught Servicing a domestic gas appliance The procedures for servicing and safety checking a gas boiler with an extended flue requires the use of a Combustion Flue Gas Analyser (CFGA). It is therefore necessary to ensure that prior to commencing work on a gas boiler you are aware that its flue is not extended. Where it is an extended flue a CFGA must be available to confirm that the air intake is delivering the required levels of oxygen for the combustion process to work satisfactorily. An existing extended flue which is concealed or exposed will require type B carbon monoxide alarms in every room through which an extended flue passes. Where an existing gas boiler is fitted in an attic space and the flue has been extended then a type B carbon monoxide alarm is required to conform to the current standard I.S. 813. Appliances must be serviced according to I.S. 813 and manufacturers’ instructions. In servicing the appliance(s), the RGI must address the following safety indicators: • • Visually inspect the exposed flue where possible. Ensure the flue is installed as per manufacturers’ instructions. When servicing existing appliances with a concealed extended flue • A combustion flue gas analysis and air intake contamination analysis at the flue sample points (where fitted) at the boiler shall be carried out. Where no sample points are fitted at the boiler then the flue gas sample should be taken at the flue terminal where reasonably practicable Extended concealed flues for existing installations When carrying out a service or repair on a gas installation which includes an extended concealed flue, in addition to the requirements of Annex C.1, the requirements of this Clause C.2 shall also apply. The exposed parts of the flue shall be visually inspected, where possible. The installation of the flue as per manufacturers’ instructions and the requirements of Clause 10 shall be verified, excluding 10.9.8. A combustion flue gas analysis and air intake contamination analysis at the flue sample points (where fitted) at the appliance shall be carried out. Where no sample points are fitted at the appliance then the flue gas sample should be taken at the flue terminal where reasonably practicable. Wherever there is an extended concealed flue for a fan-flued room-sealed appliance which cannot be inspected, a Flue Advisory Notice shall be issued to the owner/occupier/landlord. It shall be recorded in the Certificate of Conformance for the appliance(s) that a Flue Advisory Notice has been issued and the owner/occupier/landlord responsible for the premises shall be made aware of the risk. Where considered necessary a Notification of Hazard/non-conformance shall be issued. Where a fanned draught balanced flue is extended and is concealed, any concealed space through which the flue passes should be monitored for the presence of carbon monoxide by installing CO detector(s) complying with the requirement of Annex I. As a minimum the following actions shall be taken; — Check with the user the installation/appliance performance history and if there has been any previous history of flue or CO related issues; — Where the concealed space is subdivided into separate sealed compartments each compartment shall be monitored by installing multiple detectors or sensors (e.g. carbon monoxide detectors); — Where possible, a means to carry out a visual inspection of the flue should also be provided e.g. inspection hatches, or other means to check for the presence of CO in the duct/void should be provided; — Where inspection hatches are not installed and a full visual inspection of the flue is not possible a carbon monoxide detector complying with Annex I shall be installed in every room through which the concealed extended flue passes with the exception of locations where it could be susceptible to contamination by steam or grease. Also, the ceiling and surfaces along the flue route shall be inspected for signs of staining. Where there are signs of staining this must be further investigated; and — Where access to void(s) is available, testing for carbon monoxide shall be carried out within the void(s). SAFETY NOTE Galvanised band, designed for joist strutting, window frame and sill fixing, fencing repairs and hanging ductwork, shall not be used to support or secure flue components, joints or flue pipe runs. SAFETY NOTE Fig. 128 Typical concealed-extended flue and inspection hatch Extended flues shall not pass through bathrooms. 83 Existing extended exposed flues A carbon monoxide detector complying with the requirements of Annex I shall also be installed in every room through which an exposed extended flue passes. Consideration should be given to installing a CO detector in each bedroom where a room-sealed fan-flued appliance is installed, see Annex I. Where the owner-occupier/Landlord refuses to have alarms fitted a Notification of Hazard (NoHz) shall be issued and where appropriate, the appliance should be isolated (see I.S. 813:2014, Annex E.9). Extended exposed flues for existing installations A carbon monoxide detector complying with the requirements of I.S. 813. Annex I shall also be installed in every room through which an exposed extended flue passes. Consideration should be given to installing a CO detector in each bedroom where a room-sealed fan-flued appliance is installed, see I.S. 813, Annex I. • • Wherever there is an extended concealed flue which cannot be inspected, a flue advisory notice shall be issued to the owner/occupier/landlord/landlord. It shall be recorded on the Declaration of Conformance Certificate for the appliance(s) that a Flue Advisory Notice has been issued and the owner/occupier/landlord/landlord responsible for the premises shall be made aware of the risk. Where considered necessary a Notification of Hazard may be issued. Where the extended flue is concealed within a void/duct, inspection hatches should be provided to permit inspection of the flue throughout its entire length. A carbon monoxide detector (Type B), complying with the requirements of Annex I I.S. 813:2014 must be installed within each void through which a concealed extended flue passes. SAFETY NOTE The gradient required in the manufacturer's instructions (often 1 in 20) may prohibit the installation of extended flues in restricted voids. Where access to flue is not available • Visually inspect the pathway of the concealed extended flue for evidence of staining. • If access to the void is available carry out a CO test in the void. • Ask customer if there has been any ongoing problems/ issues with boiler performance and investigate same. • A carbon monoxide detector (Type B) complying with the requirements of Annex I shall be installed in every room through which a concealed extended flue passes. • A carbon monoxide detector (Type B) complying with the requirements of Annex I shall also be installed in every room through which an exposed extended flue passes. Gas rating and burner pressure • Rate the gas appliance at the gas meter. It must fall within the range specified on the data badge on the appliance and/or in the manufacturers’ instructions (see rating procedure on page 6). • If this is not possible then the appliance working pressure (all appliances) and burner pressure (where applicable) must be checked and must be within the range as displayed on the data badge on the appliance and/or in the manufacturers’ instructions. Customer Awareness/ Notification As noted above and in I.S. 813, if a concealed flue cannot be inspected, the owner/occupier/landlord responsible for the premises in which the concealed extended flue is fitted shall be made aware of the risk. Where considered necessary a Notification of Hazard shall be issued. 84 Further strong recommendations on additional safety measures that the RGI should make to the owner/occupier/landlord are: • Make the hidden sections of the flue accessible for inspection by an RGI - See Fig. 128,(The RGI should also advise on the options available to the owner/occupier/landlord). • Have a Carbon Monoxide alarm(s) installed by a competent person, such as an RGI. • Regularly check the path of your flue for staining or discolouration and have your boiler serviced annually by an RGI. • If there is any evidence of staining or discolouration along the path of, or near the flue, switch off the gas appliance and contact an RGI immediately to inspect the entire length of the flue (staining may be a sign that your flue has corroded and may require immediate replacement). • Install a type A carbon monoxide detector within the duct or void and interlink it to shut down the appliance when in the alarm condition. Install a type B carbon monoxide detector in every room through which the extended flue passes. • Visit www.carbonmonoxide.ie or phone 1850 797979 to learn more about the signs and dangers of Carbon Monoxide. Fig. 129 New boiler installations or boiler replacements (Extended Fan Flue Systems for room sealed fan flues.) Where the extended flue is concealed within a void, inspection hatches shall be provided to permit inspection of the flue throughout its entire length. A type A carbon monoxide detector complying with the requirements of Annex I shall be installed within each void and interlinked to shut down the appliance when in the alarm condition. A carbon monoxide detector complying with the requirements of Annex I shall be installed in every room through which the flue passes and in any room where the flue passes through the ceiling space. This covers the requirements for new installations where there is a concealed extended flue i.e. an extended flue concealed in a void. Fig. 130 NOTE: It is preferable to avoid this situation by siting the boiler on an outside wall Carbon Monoxide Detector Boiler Interlink Important: Before carrying out installation or maintenance work, ensure all electrical circuits are isolated and the fuse is removed. The requirements are as follows: • • • Inspection hatches must be provided to allow a full inspection of the flue and the flue joints throughout its entire length; A type “A” CO detector complying with the requirements of Annex I (See NOTE 1) must be installed in each void/duct and interlinked to shut down the appliance or the gas supply (Solenoid) when in alarm condition; and A CO detector complying with the requirements of Annex I (See NOTE 2) must also be installed in every room through which the flue passes and in any room where the flue concealed in a void/duct passes. The schematic diagram below (Fig xx) illustrates how to interconnect CO detectors using a type A CO detector as the switching device or, alternatively a wireless receiver relay. The CO detector may be wired or wireless and must be connected in such a way that will ensure that the boiler will switch off if CO is detected. See recommended wiring options 1 and 2 below, but always refer to boiler and CO detector manufacturers' specifications and instructions. It is recommended that all detectors installed are interconnected, so that detection of CO by any one unit will result in activation of all units and boiler shut off. NOTE 1: Type “A” detector i.e. interlinked to shut off gas to appliance or shut off appliance electrically. NOTE 2: Type “B” is a standalone detector (Audible and visual only). • • • • You must fit access hatches in all new installation; You must fit type “A” detectors in each void/duct (Fig. 129 and Fig. 130); You must fit type “B” detector in each room through which the flue or flue concealed in a void/duct passes; All Type A detectors must be interlinked and must shut off the appliance when alarm/alarms are activated by a solenoid on the gas line or shut off the boiler through an electrical relay; 85 EMC/ SMCG to check option1 Fig. 132 Fig. 131 On commissioning the appliance the combustion measurements must be verified using a calibrated flue gas analyser complying with I.S. EN 50379-3. In Option 1: Add permanent live connection from double pole switch to boiler (copy from Option 2) This is required for hot water operation of the boiler. New Appliance Installations A CO detector shall be installed in each room containing an open-flue or fixed flueless appliance. Revise text to “Permanent Live to Boiler and Relay” The wireless receiver relay device must be connected via a spur/switch which needs to be double poled and fused at 3 amps. It is recommended that the wireless receiver relay or type A detector be the last control device in the wiring circuit before connection to boiler. Since 28th Jan 2014 all Open Flued and Fixed Flueless appliances fitted must have a CO detector installed in the room containing the appliance and in each bedroom or located in a corridor within 5 meters of the bedroom(s) door. Therefore you must fit a minimum of two CO detectors every time you fit a gas appliance. The only exceptions are • a room sealed, balanced flue appliance fitted direct to an outside wall with flue directly to outside does not require the installation of a CO detector, but a detector is recommended if the boiler is located in a bedroom or • where the only gas appliance installed is a cooker, or hob and oven, only one CO detector is required to be installed The wireless receiver relay or type A CO detector can be connected, as shown in wiring options 1(Fig. 131) or 2 (Fig. 132 above, depending on the boiler type. For boilers with a pump or fan overrun facility Option 2 is recommended. Important: For Combination Type Boiler use wiring Option 1.This is necessary to control the boiler when operating in either heating or hot water modes Important: Be aware that when the CO level has dropped below the alarm activation setting the boiler will re-start automatically If a boiler has shut down due to the detection of CO and no fault can be found in the boiler or flue system, other potential sources of CO e.g. solid fuel fires or leaks from adjoining properties should be investigated. Wherever there is an extended concealed flue which cannot be inspected, a flue advisory notice shall be issued to the owner/occupier/landlord/landlord. It shall be recorded on the Declaration of Conformance Certificate for the appliance(s) that a Flue Advisory Notice has been issued and the owner/occupier/landlord responsible for the premises shall be made aware of the risk. Where considered necessary a Notification of Hazard may be issued. Location of CO Alarms in Enclosed Flues/Voids Fig. 133 NOTE: Ensure there is sufficient space around the alarm to remove it from the mounting plate 86 Dear Owner/Occupier/Landlord/Property Manager, Your Registered Gas Installer (RGI) has identified that your gas installation includes a concealed(hidden) concealed or exposed extended flue from your boiler to the flue terminal outside. This flue is designed to safely remove Carbon Monoxide Dioxide and water vapour produced by your boiler to outside of your building. If it is not installed correctly Carbon Monoxide Carbon Monoxide may be produced and could be a risk to your health.etheir could be a risk to your health. Your RGI has attempted to inspect the entire flue, however because it is hidden it has not been possible to carry out a full inspection. Without access to the flue your RGI cannot fully confirm the safety of its installation. It is strongly recommended that you take further steps to ensure your own safety the safety of you,that of other, people living in the property your home and your neighbours by making the hidden sections of the flue accessible for inspection by an RGI. Your RGI will be able to advise you on the options available to you. Additional safety measures In addition to making the hidden sections of the flue accessible for inspection It is also strongly recommended that you have a Carbon Monoxide alarm(s) installed by a competent person, such as a RGI, in each room that your flue passes through. When installing a Carbon Monoxide alarm: Make sure it meets the standard EN 50291, this will be marked on the packaging; Make sure it has an end-of-life indicator and carries a third party certification mark, for example the BSI Kitemark; Make sure that the installation instructions are followed to ensure that your Carbon Monoxide alarm is installed in the correct location and operates effectively. You should also regularly check the path of your flue for staining or discolouration and have your boiler serviced annually. If you see any staining or discolouration along the path of, or near your flue, switch off your gas boiler and contact your RGI immediately to inspect the entire length of your flue. Staining may be a sign that your flue has corroded and may require immediate replacement. Visit www.carbonmonoxide.ie or phone 1850 797979 to learn more about the signs and dangers of Carbon Monoxide. For further information on getting your flue inspected or to find a RGI, please contact the Register of Gas Installers of Ireland on 1850 454 454 or 01 4997998. You can also visit our website www.rgii.ie Yours sincerely, The Register of Gas Installers of Ireland Fig. 134 87 CARBON MONOXIDE Carbon Monoxide is highly dangerous. You can't see it or smell it. In fact it is often called "the silent killer". You can protect your home from the dangers of this deadly gas by taking preventive measures and by learning to recognise the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. The following is information which will help keep homes safe from the build-up of this dangerous gas. • • • Carbon Monoxide (also known as CO) is a colourless, odourless poisonous gas and is a common yet preventable cause of death from poisoning worldwide. The incomplete combustion of organic fossil fuels such as oil, gas or coal is a common environmental source of CO and is responsible for many cases of non-fatal unintentional CO poisoning. When CO is inhaled into the body it combines with the blood, preventing it from absorbing oxygen. If a person is exposed to CO over a period, it can cause illness and even death. SAFETY NOTE Carbon Monoxide has no smell, taste or colour. This is why it is sometimes called the "Silent Killer". Symptoms of CO Poisoning Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be similar to those caused by other illnesses such as a cold or flu. They include • Unexplained headaches, chest pains or muscular weakness • Sickness, diarrhoea or stomach pains • Sudden dizziness when standing up • General lethargy Response 50 Threshold limit, no apparent toxic symptoms No symptoms for long periods Possible headache Frontal headache and nausea Headache, dizziness and nausea Collapse and possible unconsciousness Headache, dizziness and nausea Collapse, unconsciousness, possible death Headache and dizziness Unconsciousness and possible death Headache and dizziness Unconsciousness and possible death Unconsciousness Danger of death 100 200 400 800 800 Several hours 2-3 hours 1-2 hours 45 minutes 2 hours 1600 1600 20 minutes 2 hours 3200 3200 6400 6400 12800 12800 5-10 minutes 10-15 minutes 1-2 minutes 0-15 minutes Immediate 1-3 minutes Table 26 Physiological Effects of Carbon Monoxide (CO) SAFETY NOTE For an RGI’s personal safety an intrinsically safe gas monitor should be considered when working in areas potentially contaminated by CO. Causes of CO Poisoning Carbon Monoxide can be produced as a result of any or a combination of the following: • Faulty or damaged heating appliances • Heating appliance not maintained or serviced • Rooms not properly ventilated • Blocked chimneys or flues • Indoor use of a barbecue grill or outdoor heater • Poor installation of heating appliances • Improper operation of heating appliances • Property alterations or home improvements, which reduce ventilation • Running engines such as electricity generator, vehicles or lawnmowers in garages • Using cooking appliances for heating purposes Parts Time of Exposure per Million RGI’s should advise customers that if they experience any of the symptoms described and suspect that CO may be involved to seek urgent medical advice, inform the doctor of their concerns. Complete Combustion When hydrocarbons e.g. Natural Gas (CH4) burn, complete combustion is a process which burns all the carbon (C) to Carbon Dioxide (CO2), all the hydrogen (H) to water (H2O) Incomplete Combustion When hydrocarbons e.g. Natural Gas (CH4)) burn, incomplete combustion will occur when there is not enough oxygen to allow the fuel to react completely to produce carbon dioxide and water. The two main reasons that lead to incomplete combustion are lack of oxygen and interference of the flame. Incomplete combustion occurs when the supply of air or oxygen is poor. This can be caused by lack of primary air or insufficient ventilation. Interference of the flame can be caused by debris on the burner or the flame touching the heat exchanger. With incomplete combustion, water is still produced, but carbon monoxide and carbon are produced instead of carbon dioxide. The carbon is released as soot. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas, which is one reason why incomplete combustion needs to be avoided. SAFETY NOTE Where a new boiler is being installed and a Type A CO alarm (which must be installed to satisfy the requirements of I.S. 813) is used in conjunction with radio frequency CO alarms, it is essential that the group of alarms within the premises are house coded in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. This may also be applied where an existing installation is being upgraded. SAFETY NOTE 88 CO will leave the blood when you go out into the fresh air and tests for CO may be inaccurate if taken hours after the exposure has ceased. SAFETY NOTE SAFETY NOTE A flue gas analyser may be used to determine CO levels in the atmosphere in a room. When checking for Carbon Monoxide in a room, occupants should be asked to immediately evacuate the premises if a reading of 30 ppm or greater is recorded (except in the case of a gas cooker). All appliances should be turned off. The premises should be ventilated and only be reentered when the CO level drops to 10 ppm or less, when tested continuously from outside. For a gas cooker, the reading should not exceed 30 ppm for longer than 20 minutes or 90 ppm at any time. However, the need to proceed with great caution in cases where CO levels exceed 10 ppm cannot be stressed enough and anyone carrying out work in such conditions must have adequate training and experience in the toxicological effects of CO. To ensure complete combustion, the appropriate volume of Air (Oxygen) must react with the required volume of gas. The basic chemical reaction for Methane (Natural Gas), Propane and Butane is shown in the following equations: CH4 + 2O2 = CO2 + 2H2O (Natural Gas) C3H8 + 5O2 = 3CO2 + 4H2O (Propane) C4H10 + 13O2 = 8CO2 + 10H2O (Butane) Incomplete combustion may occur if an incorrect mix of fuel and oxygen is burned. When incomplete combustion occurs, will give rise to the production of Carbon Monoxide as part of the products of combustion. The basic chemical reaction in this case is shown in the following equation for Methane (Natural Gas): 1 m3 CH4 + 1.75 m3 O2 = 0.5 m3 CO += 0.5 m3 CO2 + 2 m3 H2O The Danger Signs The following indicate that an appliance is not functioning properly: • • • • • • • Staining, sooting or discolouration around the appliance Appliances that burn slowly, badly (orange or 'floppy' flames) or go out A yellow or orange flame where normally blue Condensation or dampness on walls and windows in the room once the appliance is lit A strange smell when the appliance is on Rusting or water streaking on appliance cabinet/vent/chimney Loose or disconnected vent/chimney connections or guards Users should be encouraged to use the services of an RGI to have the unit fully examined for safety, if any of these conditions are detected. They should also be advised of the following: • If anyone in the house has any of the symptoms outlined above get fresh air immediately, then go to your doctor and ask him/her to check for Carbon Monoxide poisoning. • Stop using the appliance immediately and do not use it again until it has been checked by an RGI. • The amount of CO which the blood absorbs depends chiefly on two things: how much CO is in the air and the time of the exposure. Adverse effects of CO on humans are reduced by periods of breathing fresh air. The degree of recovery depends on the number and length of those periods. The general state of health and degree of physical activity of a person exposed to CO are other factors involved in the effects of Carbon Monoxide on the body. 89 SAFETY NOTE Carbon Monoxide alarms can be used as a backup to provide a warning to householders in the event of a dangerous build-up of CO. The Carbon Monoxide alarm must comply with the EN 50291 standard and should also comply with the Irish Standard Specification which covers additional requirements for CO detectors (SWIFT 8:2011). Remember that Carbon Monoxide alarms are no substitute for regular inspection and maintenance of appliances, vents, flues and chimneys. (See typical CO Detector in Fig. 148, page 100). SAFETY NOTE Swift 8 makes the following recommendations for CO detectors: • It must meet the requirements of the standard EN 50291 (this will be marked on the packaging) • It must have an end-of-life indicator • It must carry a third party certification mark, for example the BSI Kitemark; Make sure that the installation instructions are followed to ensure that the Carbon Monoxide alarm is installed in the correct location and operates effectively. See typical installation diagrams below, Fig. 135.. The flame picture has long been considered to give a reasonable indication of whether satisfactory combustion is taking place (a blue coloured flame is generally considered satisfactory with an orange or yellowish flame generally unsatisfactory). However, a visual indication is not always fully reliable and more detailed examination of the appliance may prove necessary. Also, it is not always possible to see the flame picture with certain appliances. In these cases, the use of a combustion analyser is likely to be the best option. A Flue gas combustion analyser can be used to confirm the safe performance of certain gas appliances following servicing. It can also help in the identification of unsafe gas appliances A flue gas analyser can be used to obtain significant information such as: a) verification of combustion characteristics of appliances b) checking CO concentrations within a premises c) identification of the source of a CO emission Appliances (e.g. condensing boilers/water heaters, range type cookers) with forced draught premix burners have become increasingly common. The manufacturers’ instructions for this type of appliance frequently call for the use of a combustion analyser during commissioning and servicing CO emitted from the appliance is warm so it rises It moves lower down the room as it starts to cool When it is the same temperature as the room it will be at all levels in the room. Fig. 135 Typical installation diagrams 90 Table 27 below shows how a typical CO Alarm reacts to different levels of CO gas and exposure time and the notes indicate the action to be taken in the event of the alarm being activated. Red Light (Pre Alarm) Display Icon (before horn sounds) Display Icon (after horn sounds) Sounder (Alarm) CO Gas Level 0 < ppm < 10 ppm off * Blank Blank off 0 < ppm < 30 ppm off * PPM Level (flash) on - 4 seconds. off - 12 seconds PPM Level (flash) on - 4 seconds. off - 12 seconds off 30 < ppm < 43 ppm off * 43< ppm < 80 ppm 1 flash every 2 secs 80 < ppm < 150 ppm > 150 ppm 2 flash every 2 secs 4 flash every 2 secs PPM level PPM Level VENTILATE 060 PPM VENTILATE 100 PPM VENTILATE 150 PPM 060 Appliances (e.g. condensing boilers/water heaters, range type cookers) with forced draught premix burners have become increasingly common. The manufacturers’ instructions for this type of appliance frequently call for the use of a combustion analyser during commissioning and servicing. Off EVACUATE PPM EVACUATE 100 PPM EVACUATE 150 PPM The flame picture has long been considered to give a reasonable indication of whether satisfactory combustion is taking place (a blue coloured flame is generally considered satisfactory with an orange or yellowish flame generally unsatisfactory). However, a visual indication is not always fully reliable and more detailed examination of the appliance may prove necessary. Also, it is not always possible to see the flame picture with certain appliances. In these cases, the use of a combustion analyser is likely to be the best option. on within 60-90 mins (typ 72 mins) on within 10-40 mins (typ 18 mins) on within 2 mins (typ 40 secs) * unless it has alarmed previously ppm values shown in table are for example purposes only Table 27 — CO Alarm Action Indicator Actions to be taken: • Open the doors and windows to ventilate the area. • Turn off all fuel appliances where possible and stop using them. (The alarm can be silenced immediately by pushing the test/hush button). • Evacuate the property leaving the doors and windows open. • Get medical help immediately for anyone suffering the effects of Carbon Monoxide poisoning (headache, nausea), and advise that Carbon Monoxide poisoning is suspected. • Ring your gas or other fuel supplier on their emergency number. Keep the number in a prominent place. • Do not re-enter the property until the alarm has stopped. (If the alarm has been silenced by pressing the test/hush button, wait at least 5 minutes so the alarm can check that the CO has cleared). • Do not use the fuel appliances again until they have been checked by an RGI or equivalent expert. (a) Complete combustion Fig. 136 SAFETY NOTE When home alterations are being carried out e.g. adding an extension, converting a garage, doubleglazing or weather-sealing doors the ventilation requirements for appliances should always be taken into consideration. Particular restrictions apply where a living space is to be used as a bedroom or a bathroom. A Flue gas combustion analyser can be used to confirm the safe performance of certain gas appliances following servicing. It can also help in the identification of unsafe gas appliances A flue gas analyser can be used to obtain significant information such as: a) verification of combustion characteristics of appliances b) checking CO concentrations within a premises c) identification of the source of a CO emission F 91 (a) incomplete combustion (too little primary air) (a) incomplete combustion (too much primary air) 1 3 2 CO emitted from the appliance is warm so it rises It moves lower down the room as it starts to cool When it is the same temperature as the room it will be at all levels in the room Fig. 137 Possible Fault Gas rate and pressure Insufficient ventilation Flame impingement Vitiation Aeration Location Burner/heat exchanger Appliance Possible Causes Signs Gas rate or injector size incorrect. Insufficient air to replace that used during combustion. Incorrect flame picture. Soot staining/ deposits. Incorrect flame picture or lift off, caused by blocked or undersized ventilators. Burner/heat exchanger. Cooker grill fret. Incorrect burner position. Blocked or damaged burner ports. Blocked heat exchanger Distorted cooker grill fret. Flames touching heat exchanger. Flame lift or incorrect flame picture. Soot deposits. Damage or distortion to burner or grill fret. Burner Incorrect adjustment to primary air ports. Blocked lint arrester. Incorrect flame picture; flame noisy or flobby. Dust/lint deposits around burner tube or injector(s). Burner Combustion air is deficient of oxygen due to possible spillage caused by a faulty flue. Insufficient ventilation. Incorrect flue design or damaged/blocked flue. Flame lift off. Soot staining/deposits. Note: Gas operatives have a legal duty to make safe or report appliances that show danger signs. It is essential that any warning signs of faulty combustion are not ignored when on site, or when advised by gas users (see Par 2- Gas emergency actions and procedures). Table 28 92 Fig. 138 Home alterations SECTION 9 LPG SUPPLY SYSTEMS GENERAL LPG can be supplied to a building from fixed bulk storage tanks containing propane, or portable cylinders containing propane or butane • for bulk storage of LPG see: I.S. 3216 Part 1 Code of Practice for the Bulk Storage of LPG, • for the storage of cylinders not in use see I.S. 3213. The LPG Supply Chain Overview Diagram is shown below (Fig. 139) for background information purposes. It broadly indicates the area of the industry which is within the remit of the current and proposed future legislation (under the jurisdiction of the Commission for Energy Regulation). It also indicates responsibility areas of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). Department for Transport and Marine Whitegate Refinery Deck Cargo Maritime Safety Directorate Bulk Contract Route Cylinder and Bottles Route Shore Terminals Dangerous Substances (Storage of Liquified Petroleum Gas) Regulations 1990. Bulk LPG storage subject to Seveso II Regulations. Five top tier (> 200 tonnes) sites at: Cork, Whitegate and Dublin (Calor); Drogheda and Cork (Flogas) Re-Distribution Terminals LPG tankers subject to ADR/Transport of Dangerous Goods and Dangerous Substances legislation. Lower tier Seveso II storage sites (>50 <200 tonnes). Retail Cylinders and Bottles via Dealers and Stockists Bulk Contract and Distributed Networks to individual LPG tanks Individual LPG tank for approx. 12,000 domestic and 10,000 nondomestic customers LPG Automotive Agriculture I.S. 3216 Parts 1 and 2 (garage forecourts) Code of Practice for the Bulk Storage of Liquified Petroleum Gas applies. S.R. 12007-5 Installation I.S. 265 Installation of Gas of Gas Service Service Pipes Pipes I.S. GasDistribution Distribution I.S. 329 329 Gas Mains Mains Approximately 30 sites with some lower tier Seveso II sites. HSA Safety Enforcement Distribution Agents & Stockists CER Safety Enforcement Domestic customers Distributed Network LPG Sites. Fig. 139 LPG Supply Chain Overview I.S. 3213 Code of Practice for the Storage (not use) of LPG Cylinders at approx. 7,000 distributor and stockists premises I.S. 813 Domestic Gas Installations 93 Non-domestic customers I.S. 820 Nondomestic Gas Installations PROPERTY Gross Calorific Value (GCV) of gas (at 1013.25 mbar and 15oC) NATURAL GAS PROPANE BUTANE MJ/m3 kWh/m3 10.8-11.4 39-41 94 122 Specific Gravity of gas (air = 1.000) 0.56 1.52 1.94 50.0 MJ/kg 49.3 MJ/kg Not applicable 25.5 MJ/l 28.6MJ/l at 15o C Not applicable 7.2 bar 2.4 bar at 0o C Not applicable 5.5 bar 1.9 bar 15 5 10.0 2.2 9.0 1.8 (at atmosphere pressure) Not applicable -45 -2 Supply pressure 21 mbar 37 mbar 28 mbar Stoichiometric Air requirements by volume/volume gas 9.76:1 23.56:1 30.00:1 Flame Speed 0.36 m/s 0.46 m/s 0.45 m/s Maximum Flame Temperature (approx) 1930o C 1980o C 1996o C Ignition Temperature 704o C 530o C 408o C Family 2nd 3rd 3rd Gross Calorific Value of liquid (15o C) 26.1 33.9 Vapour pressure of liquid (absolute) Flammability limits (% Gas in air): Upper Lower Boiling point o C Table 29 — Gas Characteristics OBSERVATIONS REGARDING CHARACTERISTICS • LPG is heavier than air and Natural Gas • LPG in liquid form is approximately half as dense as water • LPG has a high calorific value • LPG has a higher operating pressure than Natural Gas • LPG has low limits of flammability • LPG is stored as a liquid, under pressure • LPG will expand by approximately 250 times when it vapourises (Butane 233 times, Propane 277 times) • LPG requires more air to burn per unit of volume than Natural Gas • LPG products of complete combustion are non-toxic (mainly water and Carbon Dioxide) • LPG can cause cold burns 94 Key: a Height of top of Pressure Relief Valve (PRV) b 9m c Length of vessel d 0.3m for vessels up to 500 litres 1.5m for vessels > 500 litres to 2500 Litres e 2.5m for vessels up to 500 litres 3.0 m for vessels > 500 Litres to 2 500 Litres f Roof overhang g LPG vessel h 60 minutes minimum fire resistance and imperforate Fig. 140 Small bulk vessel adjacent to a building SAFETY NOTE The siting and location of LPG Tanks is the responsibility of the LPG Suppliers. The RGI must ALWAYS contact the supplier for guidance regarding such installations. LPG BULK TANK SYSTEMS • Bulk tanks are refilled by road tanker at the customers’ premises. Detailed requirements relating to bulk storage tanks are contained in I.S. 3216. • The pressure in the tank is typically reduced in two stages to the standard appliance operating pressure using a first, then second stage regulator. • Improved pressure control, on long pipe runs or when widely varying flows need to be catered for, can be achieved by the appropriate choice of location of the second stage regulator(s). The first stage regulator, located at the tank, typically reduces the pressure to between 0,6 bar and 1,0 bar. • The second stage regulator located either at the tank or, more usually, where the supply pipework enters the premises, typically reduces the pressure to the required operating pressure for appliances in use in the premises, normally 37 mbar. • Both regulators are normally located outdoors. • Details on location and separation distance from various features or hazards (e.g. source of ignition) 95 for the vessel sizes normally installed at domestic premises are given in Table 30 on page 96. • For underground vessels, specialist advice is available from the LPG Suppliers. • It is possible to employ fire walls to reduce separation requirements on restricted sites. However, specialist advice should be obtained from the LPG supplier in this instance. • For vessels up to 500 litres capacity, the fire wall needs to be no higher than the top of the vessel and may form part of the site boundary. • The fire wall for a tank up to 2 500 litres water capacity may form part of a building wall in accordance with Fig. 140, above. Where part of the building is used as a firewall, the wall, including any overhang, against which the LPG is stored should be 60 minutes fire-resisting construction and imperforate • Tanks are located inaccordance with the requirements of Table 30, Minimum separation distances on page 96. Nominal capacity of any single vessel in a group Maximum capacity of all vessels in a group Above ground vessels Buried or mounded tanks From buildings, boundary, (c) Between property line or fixed source vessels in a of ignition group From buildings etc. to Water capacity LPG capacity LPG capacity (litres) (tonnes) (tonnes) (a) Without fire wall (m) (b) With fire wall (m) (m) Valve assembly cover (d) Without gas dispersion wall (m) (e) With gas dispersion wall (m) (f) Vessel (m) (g) Between Vessel (m) 150 to 500 0.05 to 0.25 0.8 2.5 0.3a) 0.3 2.5c) 1.5c) 1 0.3b) Up to 2 500 Up to 1.1 3.5 3 1.5a) 1 3c) 1.5c) 1 1b) Up to 9 000 Up to 4 12.5 7.5 4 1 3c) 1.5c) 1 1b) Up to 135 000 Up to 60 200 15 7.5 1.5 7.5c) 7.5c) 3 1b) Up to 337 500 Up to 150 460 22.5 11 1/4 of the sum 11c) 11c) 3 1b) > 337 500 >150 1 000 30 15 1/4 of the sum 15c) 15c) 3 1b) of the diameter of 2 adjacent tanks of the diameter of 2 adjacent tanks a) For vessels up to 500 litres capacity, the fire wall needs to be no higher than the top of the vessel and may form part of the site boundary. The fire wall for a tank up to 2500 litres water capacity may form part of a building wall in accordance with Figure 1. Where part of the building is used as a firewall, the wall, including any overhang, against which the LPG is stored should be 60 minutes fire-resisting construction and imperforate. b) For below ground, mounded storage the spacing between adjacent vessels shall be determined by the site conditions and the requirements for safety installations, removal of such vessels as well as their inspection testings and maintenance. c) See Annex C Table 30 — Minimum separation distances contents gauge tank lifting points valve opened during the filing of the tank and should liquid discharge at this point it means the vessel is full to its maximum liquid point fill connection plastic cap pressure reflief valve vapour take-off point & service control valve 1st stage regulator LPG vapour maximum liquid level float LPG liquid Fig. 141 Typical domestic tank installation LPG CYLINDERS • • The number of installed cylinders, subject to the restrictions in Annex B, I.S. 813, which are to be connected in parallel simultaneously to supply an installation should be such that their total evaporative capacity will be adequate to supply the maximum gas flow required by all the installed appliances. Table 31, page 97 must be used to determine cylinders required for a given installation. 96 service pipe to the building • • the installation pipework with a low pressure flexible connection conforming to BS 3212 or equivalent (maximum hose length 1 m) or alternatively the regulator can be fixed to a wall or support and connected to the installation pipework and then connected to the cylinder by a rubber or metallic high pressure "pigtail" approved by use with LPG conforming to BS 3212 or equivalent. (Maximum length 1,25 m) The regulator may be connected directly to the storage cylinders or be wall mounted using brackets supplied by the manufacturer and connected to the cylinder with a "pigtail". Regulators connected directly to cylinders shall have excess flow or overpressure protection. In single stage regulator systems the gas pressure is reduced directly from the prevailing vapour pressure in the storage cylinder(s) down to the pressure required by the appliances. The maximum anticipated flow rate for each installation must be calculated using the appliance manufacturer's data and the components sized accordingly. To ensure continuity of supply it is also advisable to have an equivalent number of cylinders in reserve. Cylinder capacity kg or litres of LPG Maximum recommended off-take at 15 OC Propane Butane 11 kg / 26 litres 1.0 kg/h (14 kW) 0.6 kg/h (8 kW) 34 kg / 79 Litres 1.7 kg/h (24 kW) Not applicable 47 kg / 108 Litres 2.4 kg/h (33 kW) Not applicable Note Above off-take rates will be reduced at lower ambient temperatures e.g. to approximately 80% at 10 OC Automatic Change over Device and Regulator Table 31 Change Over Indicator Emergency Control Installation and storage of LPG cylinders in use, for domestic buildings High Pressure Hose Cylinder Valve Some requirements for these types of installation are given below (more comprehensive details are provided in Annex B, I.S. 813) • Cylinders containing commercial propane supplying permanently fixed equipment must be sited on a firm level surface at or above ground level and installed outside the building in a well-ventilated area where any leakage of this gas, which is heavier than air, may readily disperse. • Precautions must be taken to prevent cylinders from falling over and protected to minimise accidental damage and inadvertent or deliberate interference. • Appropriate precautions must be taken to protect cylinders against vehicular impact. • For permanent domestic dwellings, the part of the structure upon which, or against which the cylinders are located should have a minimum of 2 hour non-combustible fire resistance. • Except for single/twin cylinder installations, pigtails with excess flow and non-return valves should be fitted to minimise the consequences of any leakage, accidental or otherwise. • For single or twin cylinder installations only a regulator with over pressure or excess flow protection shall be installed • Hose lengths must be kept as short as possible and no greater than 1.25 m. Service Pipework Fig. 142 Single Stage Regulator System Two-stage regulator systems (see fig. 144) can achieve improved pressure control where widely varying gas flows may occur (such as when several appliances are installed, or when long lengths of pipe run are unavoidable). Two stage systems are commonly used for propane supplies from bulk storage tanks, but may also be used for cylinder installations. The first stage pressure regulator must be sited at or as near to the storage cylinders or bulk tank as possible. The second stage regulator must be installed outdoors. Automatic changeover regulator systems may incorporate pressure regulation in addition to a mechanism for automatically switching from one bank of cylinders (typically one to three cylinders in domestic applications) to a reserve bank when the first bank is empty so that there is no interruption in gas supply during this changeover. LPG Regulators and changeover devices In single stage regulator systems the gas pressure is reduced directly from the pressure in the LPG cylinder(s) down to the pressure required by the appliances. Regulators shall have overpressure or excess flow protection. This type of regulator may be connected directly to the LPG cylinder and connected to SAFETY NOTE Compression and mechanical type joints shall not be inside a sleeve. Compression and mechanical type joints shall not be inside a sleeve P Fig. 143 Two Stage Regulator System CPSO Indicator Non-return Valve 97 minimum Minimum separation for Propane cylinder installations 0,5 m 1,0 m 1,0 m 1,5 m 3,0 m 6,0 m Feature or hazard Window reveal Window (any openable section) Door Air vent Balanced-flue Flue terminal Trapped drain Parked motor vehicle Fixed sources of ignition Unprotected electrical equipment Flammable/combustible materials Untrapped drain or unsealed gully or manhole cover Bulk flammable liquid storage Opening to cellar / basement Corrosive, toxic or oxidising materials Mechanical air intake Table 32 — Minimum horizontal separation distance required between various features or hazards and Propane Wall mounted Regulator Unit/Automatic changeover device Isolation Valve Rubber Hoses Four cylinder manifold Fig. 144 Typical Cylinder Manifold Installation Fig. 145 Siting of Propane Cylinders In Use 98 Key A Window B Window/any other opening into building C Cellar/basement entrance D Untrapped drain/ unsealed manhole E Corrosive, toxic or oxidising materials F Flammable liquids ( e.g. oil, steel or plastic tanks) G Electrical meter/distribution box H Door J Balanced flue/ flue terminal K Storage – flammable/combustible materials (e.g solid fuels) L Refuse bin M Trapped drain N Vent P Mechanical air intake Q Unprotected electrical equipment/fixed source of ignition R ≥ 500 mm if top of cylinder is above the window reveal S 1m T Not less than 300 mm U 3m V 1,5 m W 6m X Maximum 400 kg NOTE A dashed line in the above diagram indicates the window/door/opening can be opened 6m 1m 3m 3m 3m 3m 1,5 m Key S 1m V 1,5 m Fig.146 Siting of Butane cylinders in use outdoors Siting and access • The use of propane cylinders indoors to supply a domestic appliance is not permitted • Cylinders must not obstruct passageways or exits. • There must be unobstructed access to the cylinder installation, and the area adjacent to them must be kept clear to ensure adequate ventilation. • Cylinders must not be kept or used under a stairway where they could be a hazard in the event of fire. • The minimum separation distance between the cylinder installation and features such as openings to the building are given in Table 32 and Fig.145, for propane and Table 33 and Fig. 146 for butane. • Any opening into chimneys or air intakes must be at least 1,0 m above the level of the top of any cylinder. Other openings above any cylinder must be at least 0.3 m above the level of the top of the cylinders. Minimum separation for Butane cylinder installations 1,0 m 1,5 m 3,0 m 6,0 m • • • U W 3m 6m Cylinders must be sited away from any heat source likely to raise the temperature of the cylinder contents above 40 °C. Where cylinders are installed in an enclosed yard, the installation must comply with the following: - not more than 6 cylinders are permitted; - the area of the yard is not less than 15 m²; - where all pigtails have not got excess flow valves at the end connected to the cylinder, and non-return valves at the other end, the area of the yard must be not less than 30 m². The maximum capacity of butane permitted in a bank of cylinders is 50 kg Feature or hazard Balanced flue/ Flue terminal Parked motor vehicle Solid fuels, or other materials permanently stored, likely to cause damage to cylinder in the event of a fire. Un-trapped drain or un-sealed gully or manhole cover Bulk flammable liquid storage Opening to cellar / basement Corrosive, toxic or oxidising materials Mechanical air intake NOTE 1 The maximum capacity of all cylinders installed in a group is 50 Kg's. NOTE 2 Because of lower pressure stored, self-closing cylinder valve and low pressure installation, less restrictions apply to butane cylinder installations outdoors. See also B.3.6. NOTE 2 Butane cylinders and regulator installations outdoors require weather protection. Table 33 — Minimum horizontal separation distance required between various features or hazards and a Butane 99 SECTION 10 LPG IN LEISURE ACCOMMODATION VEHICLES AND OTHER VEHICLES Fig. 147 I.S. EN 1949 specifies the requirements for the installation of liquefied petroleum gas systems for habitation purposes in leisure accommodation vehicles and for accommodation purposes in other vehicles. It details safety and health requirements on the selection of materials, components and appliances, on design considerations and tightness testing of installations and on the contents of the user's handbook. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS GAS TIGHTNESS The tightness test is carried out with air using the following procedure: • n preparation for the test the taps of the appliances must be closed but the shut off valves be left open. • The system is then pressurised to 150 mbar and closed. • After a period of 5 min to allow for temperature stabilisation, the pressure is recorded. • After another 5 min the remaining pressure is compared to the first pressure. • If pressure has dropped at all from noted reading, the installation cannot be regarded as sound and must not be commissioned until the leak is repaired and the installation re-tested. • All parts of the LPG system operating at pressures above working pressure, if any, are tested with an appropriate leak detection solution according to EN 14291 at operational pressure, no leakage must be observed within 30 seconds. Since June 27th 2011 “Gas Work” in this area has come within the remit of the regulatory regime and while this section of the Technical Guidance Document outlines salient requirements of the standard, it should be used as a guide and not instead of the standard itself. Under the current legislation, the work described here can only be carried out by an RGI. Some requirements for these types of installation are given below, while more detail is available in the standard. For the sake of clarity, definitions for the various types of vehicles are given here: Fig. 148 Siting of Butane Cylinders In Use Leisure Accommodation Vehicle: unit of living accommodation for temporary or seasonal occupation that may meet requirements for construction and use of road vehicles. Caravan: trailer leisure accommodation vehicle that meets requirements for construction and use of road vehicles. Motor Caravan: self-propelled leisure accommodation vehicle that meets requirements for construction and use of road vehicles. It contains at least seats and table, sleeping accommodation which may be converted from the seats, cooking facilities and storage facilities. Fig. 149 Siting of Butane Cylinders In Use Caravan Holiday Home: transportable leisure accommodation vehicle that does not meet requirements for construction and use of road vehicles, that retains means for mobility and is for temporary or seasonal occupation. Fig. 150 Siting of Butane Cylinders In Use 100 Although the standard does not specifically call for their use, gas leak and Carbon Monoxide monitoring devices are to be recommended (a typical device is shown in Fig. 149 and 150). 3 Visible condition of accessible gas pipework and flexible connectors 3.1 There shall be no evidence of physical damage. 3.2 The integrity of the pipe shall not be threatened by corrosion. 3.3 The appliance isolation valve shall be accessible and effective. 3.4 Where repair or upgrading is required, a Notification of Hazard (see NA.13) shall be issued to the owner/occupier/landlord. To address the issue of gas works on existing installations a National Annex has been prepared by the Gas Technical Standards Committee in Ireland. This National Annex sets out the requirements for any gas works not covered in I.S. EN 1949:2011+A1:2013, undertaken on leisure accommodation vehicles. This National Annex sets out a method by which existing LPG systems in vehicles with leisure accommodation, campervans (motor caravan), caravans and mobile homes (caravan holiday home), which have been already constructed and commissioned, are inspected and/or serviced by a competent person (Registered Gas Installer) to ensure that the LPG systems are safe for continued operation. 4 Adequacy of appliance air supply 4.1 The air supply to all appliances shall be examined to establish its compliance with the original manufacturers' design requirements. 4.2 The effectiveness of each air vent shall be verified. 4.3 Where it is identified that the air supply is inadequate and may present a health risk, the appliance shall be isolated, see NA.13. 4.4 Where the air supply is deemed not to meet the requirements of I.S. EN 1949, a Notification of Hazard shall be issued, see NA.13. The main issues addressed are as shown below: 1 Inspection of existing LPG systems 1.1 The correct and suitable fuel (propane or butane) and regulator for the appliances shall be verified as being correct. Where the installation is designed for propane the appropriate cylinder and regulators shall be fitted. 1.2 Pressure regulators of fixed working pressure of 30 mbar are required to be fitted to road vehicles manufactured in accordance with I.S. EN 1949. The correct and suitable regulator shall be fitted. In the case of mobile homes, regulators of 37 mbar for propane and 28 mbar for butane are acceptable NOTE See 6.1.1 of I.S. EN 1949:2011+A1:2013. 1.3 The soundness of the installation and connected appliances shall be checked in accordance with NA.6. 1.4 The visible condition of accessible gas pipework and flexible connectors shall be checked and verified in accordance with NA.7. 1.5 The adequacy of fixed air supply shall be checked and verified for effectiveness in accordance with NA.8. 1.6 The effectiveness of any flue or chimney shall be checked and verified in accordance with NA.9. 1.7 The appropriateness of appliance locations shall be checked and verified in accordance with NA.10. 1.8 The appliances shall be checked and verified as being securely fixed. 1.9 The cylinder storage compartment, where required, shall be checked and verified as being fit for purpose in accordance with the requirements for cylinder compartments in I.S. EN 1949. 2 Soundness testing of existing installation 2.1 The pressure test shall be conducted at operating pressure for a minimum of 2 minutes after a temperature stabilisation period of 5 minutes, on appliances and pipework. If no pressure drop is observed, the installation is deemed to be sound. WARNING — where the regulator forms part of the test, care shall be taken to avoid leakage being masked by gas pressure upstream of the regulator ("reservoir effect"). 2.2 In the event of a pressure drop, all appliances shall be isolated and the test repeated. If no pressure drop is observed the pipework may be deemed to be sound. 2.3 In the event of a pressure drop in the pipework it shall be isolated, see NA.13. 2.4 The isolated appliances shall be tested in accordance with Table 34 In the event of a pressure drop in an appliance, if the pressure drop is in excess of that specified in Table 34, the appliance shall be isolated, see NA.13. If the pressure-drop is less than that specified in Table 34, then the appliance may be left in use provided a Notification of Hazard is issued, see NA.13. 5 Adequacy of flue dispersion 5.1 All flues and chimneys serving appliances shall be checked for suitability of material and satisfactory performance. There shall be no evidence of visible corrosion, physical damage or visible deterioration. 5.2 All open-flued appliances shall be tested for spillage. If the result is not satisfactory the appliance shall be isolated, see NA.13. 5.3 Any evidence of visible staining, which could be attributed to flue spillage, adjacent to any appliance or the flue shall be investigated. 5.4 Where reasonably practicable, the flue terminal shall be inspected to confirm it is correctly located and the opening is not obstructed and is free from combustible material. 5.5 Flueless instantaneous water heaters shall be inspected for the existence of an operational atmospheric sensing device. When the device is inoperable or not fitted, the supply shall be isolated and the occupier or responsible person informed in writing, see NA.13. Any isolation shall be such as to require the use of tools to restore the supply. 6 Appliance location Where an appliance is in a location not permitted by I.S. EN 1949, appropriate actions shall be taken, as outlined in NA.13, i.e.: Where a hazard is identified, a Notification of Hazard shall be issued to the owner/occupier/landlord or responsible person. The competent person may decide to affix a warning notice and/or isolate the gas supply to the installation, or part thereof, or to an appliance if deemed appropriate. Any isolation shall be such as to require the use of tools to restore the supply Type of gas Test pressure Stabilisation duration Test duration LPG Operating pressure 5 minutes 2 minutes Table 34 101 Maximum permitted pressure drop. (appliance only) 0,5 mbar CYLINDER COMPARTMENTS Cylinder compartments with internal access must satisfy the following: Alternatively, thermal shielding must be installed to prevent entry of exhaust gases into the compartment, or projection of the exhaust heat flow towards the cylinder(s) (see Fig. 152). • The compartment contains a maximum of two cylinders with maximum capacity of 16 kg each • Access between compartment and habitable area must be via an attached sealed door or hatch, the bottom edge of is at least 50 mm above the compartment floor. as allowed in I.S. EN 1949. Apart from the exceptions above, the following applies: • • • vehicles cylinders for road going must be installed in cylinder compartments. cylinder compartments must be sealed against the accommodation space and have external access only. any cylinder placement must provide a minimum distance from the engine exhaust system as shown in Fig. 151. Minimum distance from the engine exhaust system Fig. 152 Thermal Shielding Option Key 1 exhauster 2 LPG cylinder compartment 3 LPG cylinders 4 outside the vehicle 5 inside the vehicle 6 ventilation 7 driving direction 8 thermal shielding E ≥ 25 mm SAFETY NOTE In Fig. 152 the area of low level ventilation is based on 10 000mm2. a) Top view b) Side view Fig. 151 Minimum distance from the engine exhaust system Key 1 example of allowed position of the exhauster 2 LPG cylinder compartment 3 LPG cylinders 4 outside the vehicle R = D = D1 ≥ 250 mm D2 ≥ 300 mm The shaded areas represent the volume where no part of exhaust system must be located without installation of a thermal protection shield. Motor Caravan Caravan Fig. 153 Typical Cylinder compartment installation Ventilation To satisfy the requirements of EN 721 ventilation openings should be: • protected by a grill or screen • located so that they are not likely to be blocked by curtains etc. • high and low level , preferably • located so as not to be affected by flue products Table 35, page 103 provides details of the ventilation free area requirement based on the floor plan area of the principal habitation compartment. It caters for: • Replacement air for occupants • Supply of combustion air for flued and flueless appliances • Removal of products of combustion from flueless appliances 102 Total plan area of leisure accommodation vehicles m2 (see Note) Minimum size of high-level ventilation (roof vents ) mm2 Minimum size of low-level ventilation mm2 Up to 5 7500 1000 12500 2000 Over 5 and up 10 Over 10 and up to 15 Over 15 and up to 20 Over 20 10000 1500 15000 3000 20000 5000 Table 35 — Habitation Compartment Ventilation SAFETY NOTE The designed ventilation for this type of dwelling will have been chosen to suit the appliances as originally installed. If replacing an appliance, this should be done on a “like for like” basis. Otherwise, the level of ventilation must be recalculated and installed in accordance with the original manufacturer’s instructions. Fig. 154 Regulator and hose assembly VENTILATION FOR CYLINDER COMPARTMENTS COMPONENTS • Only hoses and hose assemblies appropriate for the first country of sale (e.g. temperature resistance, colour coding) complying with the requirements of that country must be provided. • Pipes must be made of copper complying with EN 1057, seam welded steel complying with EN 10305-2, seamless steel complying with EN 10305-1 or stainless steel complying with EN ISO 1127 and must have a minimum nominal wall thickness in compliance with Table 36: Permanent ventilation of any cylinder compartment must be provided to the exterior. If the ventilation is provided only at low level, the free area must be at least 2 % of the compartment floor area with a 2 minimum of 10 000 mm . If the ventilation is provided at high and low level the free area must be at least 1 % of the compartment floor area at each level and not less than 5 000 2 mm at each level. It must not be possible for any part of the ventilation area to be obstructed by a cylinder. ELECTRIC EQUIPMENT IN CYLINDER COMPARTMENTS Out diameter mm 6 8 10 12 15a 18a 22a Apart from: • ELV (extra low voltage) equipment for gas supply control; • cables running through a gas compartment without connection no electrical equipment, including wiring systems, is allowed in any gas cylinder compartment. Where such equipment is installed, it must not be a potential source of ignition. If used in this way, cables must be protected against mechanical damage by installation within conduit or duct passing through the compartment. The conduit or duct must be suitably protected from potential damage if it is likely to be subject to impact. PRESSURE REGULATION SYSTEMS/FLOW RATES • • • • The LPG installation must have a pressure regulation system installed appropriate to the type of vehicle in which it is installed. For vehicles, a safety device/devices must be provided to ensure that a pressure greater than 150 mbar is not supplied to any appliance with a maximum flow rate of 1.5 kg/hr and working pressure of 30 mbar Typical flow rates for regulators used in caravan holiday homes is 2.5 kg/hr, with 37 mbar working pressure for propane and 28 mbar for butane Where an over-pressure relief valve is fitted it must vent into the cylinder compartment or directly to the outside of the vehicle. Copper Steel 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 0.5 0.8 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 For caravan holiday homes the above values for wall thickness are recommended, but it is acceptable in countries where National Standards permit, to use a different wall thickness in accordance with EN 1057. a Table 36 — Regulator and hose assembly • • • • • 103 Metallic fittings must be in compliance with I.S. EN 1949. Only jointing compounds complying with EN 751-2 and suitable for use with LPG must be used and in accordance with the jointing compound manufacturer‘s instructions. Such jointing compounds must only be applied to the male thread of threaded fitting. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) tape complying with EN 751-3 used in the manner prescribed by the tape manufacturer is acceptable. Jointing compounds must not be used on all other fittings. Shut-off valves must have a clearly identified “open” and “closed“position. SAFETY NOTE Hoses should be routinely replaced at intervals not exceeding 5 years. Any hose that shows signs of splitting, wear or damage should be replaced. More frequent inspection and replacement should be considered if the hose is exposed to aggressive operating conditions. Fig. 155 Regulator and hose assembly • • • • • • • • • • • • All unions and joints must be accessible, shut-off valves and hoses must be readily accessible. Pipework must be protected against mechanical damage either by its location or other means (e.g. grommets). Pipes and other parts of the LPG system must be protected by anticorrosion measures, e.g. plastic coating or bituminous paintwork, or be of corrosion resistant material. Pipes must be sized so that the pressure drop across the pipe work from the pressure regulation system outlet does not reduce the pressure at the appliance inlet below the minimum acceptable pressure for any of the appliances within the system. Where LPG pipes are installed near electric supply lines, contact with the electric supply lines shall be avoided by spacing, insulation and sheathing or other means. Where no other means of protection is provided, the minimum space between the gas pipes and accessories and the electric supply lines must be: - 30 mm in a parallel path; - 10 mm at crossover points. Contact must be avoided with any other services. If confusion with other services is possible the LPG pipes must be clearly identified. All LPG systems must include a main shut-off valve, which must be readily accessible, preferably in the cylinder compartment, with each appliance must have an individual shut-off valve in its supply line. All shut-off valves actuators such as handles or switches must be readily accessible and have unmistakable means of identification of the "open" and "closed" position. Shut-off valves not situated immediately adjacent to the appliance must carry unmistakable means of identification of the appliance they control. Shut-off valves installed on the outside of a vehicle must be protected against dirt by positioning or covers. Pipes conveying gas must not be used as a bonding conductor. Bonding to the ground continuity conductor is required. • If a plug-in socket is provided for the external use of gas appliances (e.g. barbecue), it must only be provided by an external outlet. APPLIANCES • All appliances must be provided with relevant instructions relating to their installation in leisure accommodation vehicles and other vehicles. • A flame supervision device must be fitted to all appliance burner(s) including pilot burners. • All appliances must be installed and fixed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions. • Space heaters in caravans, motor caravans and other road vehicles must be of the room-sealed type and must comply with EN 624. They must be installed and positioned to minimise the risk of burns to the occupants due to inadvertent contact with working surfaces. • In caravan holiday homes, closed-flue appliances are acceptable. The installation of the appliances must comply with the appliance installation instructions regarding positioning, flue lengths, positioning of flues, protection against overheating of adjacent surfaces and fixed ventilation. SAFETY NOTE • • • CONNECTION OF APPLIANCES TO THE LPG SUPPLY INSTALLATION • Appliances must be connected to the gas supply by metallic piping which must be rigid and free of stress. This requirement does not apply to cooking appliances in caravan holiday homes that have been certified for installation with a flexible hose and that hose is supplied as a component of the appliance. • Appliances installed in a way to allow for disconnection by the user must be connected by a plug-in socket which must incorporate an integrated isolation valve which is closed automatically when disconnected. Disconnection must only be possible after closing of an integrated manual shut-off valve. Opening of this shut-off valve must only be possible if the hose assembly is connected. • • • • SAFETY NOTE All appliances shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of I.S. EN 1949, clause 10.2 104 Specialist appliances such as combination space and water heaters are available for this sector. Manufacturer’s instructions must be followed when installing such appliances.(See Fig. 156, on page 105 for an example of such an appliance). Water heaters in caravans, motor caravans and other road vehicles must be of the room sealed type. In caravan holiday homes room sealed water heaters are preferred. See I.S.EN 1949 conditions to be satisfied if installing open flued appliances. Cooking appliances must be stable in use and storage. In road vehicles, only cooking appliances with burner caps secured in place are to be installed. Refrigerators must comply with EN 732, and must be installed so that the combustion air for the burner is taken from, and the exhaust gases are vented to, the outside. Gas lights must be located to avoid overheating of adjacent surfaces especially the ceiling, according to the appliance manufacturer's specification. Fuel cells using LPG as fuel must be installed according to the manufacturer instructions. LPG power generators using LPG as fuel and producing electricity must be installed according to the manufacturer instructions and the following: - The generator must be installed in a compartment sealed from the living accommodation space. This space must be ventilated at both high and low level such that the temperature rise of any combustible materials within the compartment does not exceed 50oC. The free area must be at least 1 % of the compartment floor area at each level and not less 2 than 5000 mm at each level. It must not be • • SAFETY NOTE possible for any part of the ventilation area to be obstructed; - Operation of the generator at any output must not affect the tightness of the connection to the gas supply: - The exhaust flueing must be designed to prevent temperature rises in excess of 50o C above ambient within the fabric of construction of the leisure accommodation vehicle; - The controls of the generator must be readily accessible. - The connection to the LPG supply installation must be suitable for the vibrations arising from the appliance. Open-flued and flueless appliances must not be installed in a room or internal space containing a bath or shower. Gas appliances of 14 kW gross heat input, or more, in stalled in a room used or intended to be used as sleeping accommodation must be room sealed. A false chimney breast may be constructed to accommodate a proprietary flue box to which an appliance such as a gas fire or back boiler can be connected. In this case, flue boxes which comply with BS 715 and are suitable for use with the specific appliance must be used, installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions (See Fig. 158). FLUEING • The flue pipe, flue terminal and any draught diverter required must be as specified by the appliance manufacturer and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. See Fig. 157 for typical details of room sealed appliance installation. • Where manufacturer's instructions do not specify flueing requirements, for open flued water heaters a minimum of 600 mm of vertical flue directly above the draught diverter must be provided and roof mounted terminal must be at least 250 mm above the roof intersection. Fig. 156 Combination Space and Water Heater Fig. 158 Gas Appliance:Flue Box Type Installation SAFETY NOTE Fridges have specific requirements for flueing and ventilation. Manufacturers instructions are quite explicit about these requirements and must be followed. Fridges must be installed so that combustion air is taken from outside and exhaust gases are also vented to the outside. When installing wall mounted appliances full consideration of: • the weight of the appliance (full of water, where applicable) • separation of flue from wall/cladding using specialist non-combustible sleeves • proper termination of the flue according to the manufacturer’s instructions Fig. 159 • Fig. 157 Room Sealed Appliance Detail 105 Except where a draught diverter is fitted in an open flued system, all joints in any flue pipe must be sealed to prevent the products of combustion entering the habitation area of the vehicles. The cross sectional area of flues for appliances must match the area of the flue outlet connection of the appliance i.e. be of a tight fit type. • • • • • The whole assembly must remain firmly in position even when the vehicle is in motion. Flue terminals must be sited in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions, preferably on the roof or in the wall of the vehicle. Where the underfloor area is divided into distinct channels that project below the floor, e.g. by chassis members or floor bearers, there must be no ventilation openings in the same channel as any flue outlet. Flue terminals must not be positioned within 500 mm of a refuelling point or fuel tank breather outlet or any ventilator from the fuel system(s). Flue terminals positioned on a wall or a roof for gas appliances of more than 30 g/h LPG consumption must not be located within 300 mm of a ventilator for the living space or an opening part of a window, see Fig. 160. • • • INSTALLATION OF THE LPG TANK AND SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS • The LPG tank and the fitted service valve must be mounted and fixed in a manner that it is only possible to withdraw LPG from the gaseous phase in the tank. The correct mounting position of the LPG tank must be indicated on the body of the LPG tank. Gaseous phase gas may be distributed to all installed appliances. • The LPG tank, the fitted tank accessories and the components of the LPG system from the filling unit to the LPG tank (components in contact with LPG in liquid phase) must be installed in accordance the requirements outlined in I.S. EN 1949. • The filling unit of the LPG tank must not be fitted within 500 mm of a ventilator for the habitable volume/living space, an opening part of a window or any flue outlet. • The pressure regulation system must be installed directly after the service valve. • Means must be provided to verify the tightness of the gas system from the outlet of the regulator to the inlet of the appliances. • If an LPG heating system is connected to the LPG tank the requirements outlined in I.S. EN 1949 Section 6.1.3 must be followed. • If the vehicle is equipped with cylinder(s) and LPG tank a manual change over valve must be installed which enables only one of the two LPG supply sources (tank or cylinder), see Fig. 162. Fig. 160 Ventilators: Prohibited zone for discharge openings for the products of combustion Key 1 ventilator 2 prohibited zone for discharge opening for the products of combustion R = 300 mm • • Where a flue pipe passes through an external structure of the vehicle, measures must be taken to prevent ingress of water into the structure of the vehicle. A draught diverter, where fitted, must either be integral with the appliance or be fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. No additional devices (e.g. flue dampers) are to be fitted. Means must be provided to permit access for periodic inspections of the whole of the circumference and length of flue pipes, or the flue ends and attachments and the whole of the outside of the insulating sleeve of insulated flue pipes. Inspection panels or structures must be removable by means of a simple tool, e.g. a screwdriver. Where the flue terminal of an appliance of more than 30 g/h LPG consumption is positioned vertically below an opening part of a window, the appliance must be fitted with an automatic shut-off device to prevent operation when the window is open. There must no openings for discharge of products of combustion in the area shown in Fig. 161. Fig. 162 System with Two LPG Supply Sources Fig. 161 Windows: Prohibited zone for discharge openings for the products of combustion Key 1 window 2 prohibited zone for discharge opening for the products of combustion 3 bottom of the vehicle D = R = 300 mm 106 Key 1 LPG tank 2 excess flow valve 3 service valve 4 shut-off valve (optional) 5 regulator 6 test point 7 rigid piping 8 change over valve 9 regulator (cylinder side) SECTION 11 APPLIANCE SERVICING It is the responsibility of the RGI to ensure that the occupier or the person responsible for the premises in which the appliance is situated is notified if any of the above is not satisfactory. Where considered necessary a Notification of Hazard/Non-Conformance (see example, page 7 or I.S. 813, Annex D.2) must be issued. Servicing a domestic gas appliance Servicing of appliances must be carried out in accordance with the requirements of Annex C, I.S. 813/ I.S. EN 1949, as appropriate and manufacturers instructions. The RGI may decide to affix a warning notice and/or isolate the gas supply to the installation, or part thereof, or to an appliance if deemed appropriate. The isolation must be such as to require the use of tools to restore the supply. Appliances must be serviced only by an RGI using appropriate test equipment. Appliances should be serviced at intervals indicated in the manufacturer's instructions or at more frequent intervals if dictated by the conditions of use and in general at minimum intervals of one year. The occupier or the person responsible for the premises in which the appliance is situated shall be notified if any of the above is not satisfactory. Where considered necessary a Notification of Hazard/ nonconformance shall be issued. The RGI must service the appliance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The RGI must issue a Declaration of Conformance for all “Gas Works” carried out, as soon as the work is completed. Before starting to service an appliance, it is recommended that the RGI checks with owner/occupier/landlord if any particular problems with the appliance, as well as checking for visible damage. The appliance should be operated for a short period to confirm that it is working normally. All appliances are potential sources of Carbon Monoxide, and when servicing the RGI must always be wary of that fact. For range rated boilers, to determine that the gas rating and burner pressure are correct the gas appliance shall be rated at the gas meter. It shall fall within the range specified on the data badge on the appliance and/or in the manufacturers’ instructions before being considered safe. If this is not possible then the appliance operating pressure (all appliances) and burner pressure (where applicable) shall be checked and shall be within the range as displayed on the data badge on the appliance and/or in the manufacturers’ instructions before being considered safe. When carrying out a service or repair on a gas installation which includes an extended concealed flue, in addition to the requirements listed above, the requirements of I.S 813, Annex C, clause C.2 shall also apply. SAFETY NOTE A flue gas analyser (which satisfies the requirements of EN 50379) must be used for the servicing or repairing of condensing appliances, unless some other specific method is indicated by the particular manufacturer. Reference must be made to specific manufacturers’ instructions regarding the checking of combustion at maximum and minimum settings. In certain room-sealed appliances the pressure within the appliance casing is positive. It is essential to ensure that the seal on the casing of this type of appliance is correct (in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions), in good condition and correctly installed. Failure to achieve this will lead to a risk of products of combustion escaping into the room. High levels of Carbon Monoxide could occur, creating a dangerous environment. In servicing the appliance(s), the RGI must address the following safety indicators: • • • • • • effectiveness of the flue; safety devices on or controlling the appliance have not been rendered inoperable; supply of combustion air; appliance burner pressure (where applicable); appropriateness of the location of the appliance; gas soundness of the appliance. 107 SECTION 12 Relevant Network Literature Warning Meter Isolated (supplier request) RGI must not unlock meter when this label is attached to meter Warning Triangle Disconnected Appliance – IC Premises Warning Account Closed (previous occupant request) RGI must not unlock meter when this label is attached to meter Warning Triangle Live Gas Pipe Domestic Warning Triangle Live Gas Pipe IC Premises Warning Triangles – Safety Isolated RGI must repair, test and re-certify installation before gas is restored GNI must be notified when gas is turned back on. RGI Caution Notice Tag (same as on hockey stick) Advising that only an RGI who signed and issued a declaration of conformance shall remove this seal IC Turn On Warning Notice Tag RGI must not unlock meter when this label is attached to meter Warning Triangle – Disconnected/ Isolated Appliance Domestic RGI must repair, test and re-certify installation before gas to appliance is restored 108 SECTION 13 TERMINOLOGY, LEGISLATION AND STANDARDS LEGISLATION AND STANDARDS • TERMINOLOGY • Building Line The outermost extent of the building structure (archway, balcony or basement) cast vertically on to ground level. • • • Coat Coating may be a factory applied light wrapping, paint or other suitable substance applied to a pipe to protect against corrosion. • • • Duct Purpose provided space constructed of building materials for the enclosure of installation pipework or other building services. • • • Fire Resistant Duct Duct - constructed from material rated as fire resistant (See Building Regulations). • Fire Stopped Building component / material designed to prevent the spread of fire through walls or ceilings for a given minimum time. • • • • • • • Free Ventilation Ventilation not reliant upon mechanical activation. Installation Pipework Refers to any gas pipework, fittings, meters or ancillaries downstream of the point of delivery nominated by the Network Operator. This point may be either a combination of a regulator and valve or a meter. • • Mechanical Joint Compression, flange or union type pipe joint. Natural Ventilation Sufficient air movement in a space to ensure one air change per hour (minimum). • • • Naturally Ventilated Basement A naturally ventilated basement is a space below or partially below a building with air openings of sufficient size to cause free air flow at all times. Should gas service pipework or meter installations be required in this space, the minimum air opening requirements must coincide with the Building Regulations (Technical Guidance Documents, Section B 3.5.2.4). • Open Riser Rising pipework not enclosed as it passes through living or shared spaces in the building. • • Riser Installation pipework rising vertically through a building to supply one or more dwellings. Sleeve Rigid (usually non-metallic) pipe material impervious to gas. The annulus between the sleeve and gas pipe acts as a conduit for gas in the event of leakage. Void A space in a building lacking any air flow. Wrap Material used to protect pipes from corrosion and also providing some degree of impact protection. 109 A Natural Gas Safety Regulatory Framework for Ireland (ref. CER/07/172); Vision for the Regulation of Gas Installers with Respect to Safety (ref. CER/07/225); Launch of Process for the Designation of the Gas Safety Supervisory Body; CER – HSA Memorandum of Understanding 2014; Economic Regulation of the Gas Safety Supervisory Body and any Electrical Safety Supervisory Bodies to be designated by the CER (ref. CER/08/108); Definition for the Scope of “Gas Works” with regard to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) (ref: CER/11/022); “Gas Works” Final Decision Paper (ref. CER/09083); “Electricity Regulation Act, 1999, as amended, which established the Commission for Energy Regulation; S.I. No. 225 of 2009: “Gas Works” Regulations 2009 and related guidance notes Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2006; Energy (Biofuel Obligations and Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010; Safety Regulation of the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Industry in Ireland – Policy Paper (ref. CER/09/082); S.I. 299 of 2011 – Definition of LPG Works S.I. 42 of 2011 – Brings LPG within Regulatory Framework and extends Gas Safety Officer powers re Inspection and Audit of LPG fittings S.I. 280 of 2011 – Commencement of LPG Regulation Gas Appliance Directive (G.A.D.) 2009/142/EC Energy (Miscellaneous Provision) Act 2012 Energy Act 2016 CER/16/222 Criteria Document Version 1.6 the Regulation of Gas Installers with respect to Safety CER/14/791 Regulation of the Gas Installer Industry with respect to Safety from 2016 CER/15/244 Extension of Registered Gas Installer Scheme to include Non-Domestic Gas Works Decision Paper CER/16/373 Extension of Registered Gas Installer Scheme to include Non-Domestic Gas Works Information Paper Irish Standard I.S. 813, Domestic Gas installations published under the authority of the National Standards Authority of Ireland which may be revised and amended from time to time. Irish Standard I.S. 820, Non-domestic Gas installations published under the authority of the National Standards Authority of Ireland which may be revised and amended from time to time. Irish Standard I.S. EN 1949, Specification for the Installation of LPG Systems for Habitation Purposes in Leisure Accommodation Vehicles and Accommodation Purposes in Other Vehicles published under the authority of the National Standards Authority of Ireland which may be revised and amended from time to time. Gas Appliance Directive (G.A.D.) 2009/142/EC. EN 13831, Closed expansion vessels with built in diaphragm for installation in water.