Illegal gas fitter sentenced after Facebook ads

An illegal gas fitter who advertised his services on Facebook despite not being on the Gas Safe Register has received an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, after carrying out dangerous gas work across five homes in North East England. [hsmsearch.com], [press.hse.gov.uk]

Alexander Robson, 38, of Fenham, Newcastle, promoted his services on social media and distributed flyers featuring a fake Gas Safe logo. Trading under names including GasnHeat Plumberz and North East Renocationz, he carried out gas work on boilers, gas fires and pipework at properties in Blyth, Ryton, Hexham, Winlaton and Newcastle. [hsmsearch.com], [press.hse.gov.uk]

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that Robson continued carrying out gas work after his Gas Safe registration had expired in February 2024. Investigators concluded that his work was not only illegal but also substandard, creating serious risks including gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning. [hsmsearch.com], [press.hse.gov.uk]

Robson pleaded guilty to ten breaches of the Gas Safe (Installation and Use) Regulations. In addition to the suspended sentence, he was ordered to complete a six-month mental health treatment programme, 30 days of rehabilitation activity, and pay compensation and prosecution costs. [hsmsearch.com], [press.hse.gov.uk]

HSE Inspector Darian Dundas described the offences as being carried out “brazenly and in the open”, warning that homeowners should always check an engineer’s credentials through the official Gas Safe Register. [hsmsearch.com], [press.hse.gov.uk]

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Health and safety responsibilities for fusion energy facilities HSE has produced a new webpage for those with responsibilities during the life-cycle of fusion energy facilities including designers, installers and operators. The webpage includes information on: HSE has also introduced a contact process for organisations developing fusion energy facilities to request an introductory meeting once they have reached an appropriate stage in