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Large fine for gas work that could have killed someone
A MAN who falsely acted as a Corgi registered gas fitter has been fined over £6,000.
David Mees, 44, of Ael y Bryn, Llandinam, who traded as DEE Services, was told his work could have caused death, by magistrates at Welshpool Magistrates' Court.
He was being sentenced after pleading guilty to four trade descriptions offences and nine health and safety offences.
Mees was also ordered to carry out 280 hours of unpaid work in the community and was given a community order for one year, which will be supervised for that period.
The offences took place between September 1, 2005, and October 20, 2006.
Simon Parrington, prosecuting, said that work carried out by Mees at three properties was dangerous.
The properties were 15 Maesydre in Caersws, the Old School at Llanbister Road in Llandrindod Wells, and Kenbourne on Llanidloes Road in Newtown.
Mr Parrington told the court that work on a gas hob and fire at 15 Maesydre and on a gas hob, boiler, and fire at Kenbourne, had been termed dangerous by Corgi inspector Paul Dyke.
Mr Parrington also told how Mees had falsely signed a gas certificate at Kenbourne in Newtown.
Mees had also placed an advertisement in the BT phonebook claiming he was Corgi registered when he was not and using a logo claiming he was a member of the Oil Firing Technical Association when he was not.
Mees was ordered to pay a total of £6,750 costs, with £6,000 being awarded to the Health and Safety Executive and £750 going to Trading Standards.
The outcome of the case was welcomed by the HSE.
HSE inspector Barbara Francis said: "This case is doubly disturbing because this individual was purporting to be registered when he clearly was not.
"All Corgi registered fitters carry a card which gives their registration number and details of the appliances on which they have had their competence assessed.
"Anyone who is in any doubt can call Corgi on 0800 915 0485.
"While gas appliances which are correctly fitted and maintained are extremely safe, incorrectly fitted or poorly maintained appliances can give rise to carbon monoxide which is odourless, colourless and can result in illness or death.
"This case also provides a salutary warning for anyone doing gas work without the correct training or registration – HSE will take the strongest action possible against anyone who does not comply with the law. Their behaviour is putting lives at risk."
Sent: 22/02/2008
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