Call for mandatory servicing to stop future deaths

Master Plumbers is continuing its campaign to mandate regular servicing and maintenance of all gas appliances by a licensed gasfitter.

Master Plumbers CEO Peter Daly said that all gas appliances that are not regularly serviced and maintained have the potential to produce deadly carbon monoxide.

“Testing of gas appliances for carbon monoxide requires a complex program of work, including a full service of the appliance and consideration of factors such as the ventilation and ongoing serviceability of the appliance.

“The community has the right to expect that they can safely use their heaters and stoves when they need them. Gas appliances require regular maintenance to work effectively, and when this is done by an appropriately licensed and trained professional, users can have the confidence that everything will be in order for the colder months ahead,” Mr Daly said.

The call comes a year after the coronial inquest into the carbon monoxide poisoning of Sonia Sofianopoulos in her public housing unit in 2017. At the time Energy Safe Victoria urged Victorians with a Vulcan heritage or Pyrox heritage gas heater to call Climate Technologies on (03) 8795 2462. People living in DHHS housing were directed to call 1800 148 426.

Victorians who hold any concerns regarding their gas appliances are urged to contact a licensed plumber who holds an endorsement in the specialised class of Type A appliance servicing.