A father and son have been sentenced after carrying out illegal gas work that resulted in a dangerous gas leak at a rental property in Stoke-on-Trent, putting tenants, including a young baby, at risk. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of using only qualified and Gas Safe registered engineers for gas installations and repairs. [press.hse.gov.uk], [hsmsearch.com]
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) investigation found that Wayne Culliss arranged for his then 18-year-old son, Kazys, to replace a boiler despite him not being qualified or Gas Safe registered. A subsequent inspection discovered a gas leak, leading engineers to isolate and cap the gas supply to protect the occupants. [press.hse.gov.uk], [hsmsearch.com]
Kazys Culliss received a 12-month community order and was ordered to complete 140 hours of unpaid work, while Wayne Culliss was fined £3,000 and ordered to pay costs after both pleaded guilty to offences under gas safety and health and safety legislation. [press.hse.gov.uk], [hsmsearch.com]
The HSE has used the prosecution to reinforce a clear message: gas work should only ever be undertaken by Gas Safe registered engineers. Poorly installed gas appliances can lead to leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning, with potentially catastrophic consequences. [press.hse.gov.uk], [hse-network.com]
Key takeaway: Always ask to see a gas engineer’s Gas Safe ID card and verify their registration before any work begins. A simple check could prevent serious harm and save lives. [press.hse.gov.uk], [hellorayo.co.uk]
