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BS 6891:2015+A1:2019
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BSI Standards Publication

Specification for the installation and

maintenance of low pressure gas
installation pipework of up to 35 mm
(R1¼) on premises
 BS 6891:2015+A1:2019
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Publishing and copyright information

The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the document was last issued.

© The British Standards Institution 2019

Published by BSI Standards Limited 2019

ISBN 978 0 539 00238 6

ICS 97.140.40

The following BSI references relate to the work on this document:

Committee reference GSE/30
Drafts for comment 13/30199128 DC; 18/30374580 DC; 19/30390356 DC

Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

Date Text affected

31 July 2019 A1: see Foreword

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Contents Page

Foreword iii
1 Scope 1
Table 1 — Pipework covered by BS 6891 2
Figure 1 — 2nd family gas installation with an internal meter 2
Figure 2 — 3rd family gas installation with cylinders 3
Figure 3 — 3rd family gas installation with bulk storage vessels 3
Figure 4 — Selection of applicable standard(s) for gas installations 4
2 Normative references 4
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3 Terms and definitions 7

4 Competence 11
Table 2 — Approval bodies and statutory regulations by country/territory 12
Table 3 — Competence requirements by country/territory 12
5 Design and planning 13
Figure 5 — Sizing pipework — Design maximum pressure loss for typical installations 14
6 Materials and components 15
7 Jointing 17
8 Installation 19
Figure 6 — Non‑contact voltage detector (single pole) — Example 21
Figure 7 — Use of temporary continuity bond 22
Figure 8 — Position of main protective bonding conductor connection 26
Figure 9 — Typical notification where main protective bonding conductor is found not to
be present 27
Figure 10 — AECV positions 28
Figure 11 — Typical exterior pipework 30
Table 4 — Maximum interval between pipework supports 32
Figure 12 — Notching and drilling of metal web joists and timber-engineered joists 33
Figure 13 — Limits for notching and drilling of solid timber floor joists 34
Figure 14 — Pipework in concrete compartment floors 38
Figure 15 — Pipework in timber fire compartment floors 39
Figure 16 — Typical examples of pipework installed in solid floors 41
Figure 17 — Typical examples of pipework installed in solid construction walls 44
Figure 18a — Typical examples of pipework installed in timber and light steel-framed
construction walls 48
Figure 18b — Typical examples of pipework installed in timber and light steel-framed
construction walls 49
Figure 18c — Typical examples of pipework installed in timber and light steel-framed
construction walls 50
Figure 19 — Limits for drilling of wall studding 51
Table 5 — Buried external pipework 53
Figure 20 — Buried pipework 54
Table 6 — Free area of ventilation openings 56
Figure 21 — Cross‑sectional area of duct 57
Figure 22 — Typical pipework in multi‑storey buildings containing flats or maisonettes 58
Figure 23 — Copper and steel pipe in a protected area 60
Figure 24 — Typical method of accommodating movement for pipework passing through a
masonry/timber-frame wall 63
9 Installation of flexible hoses, tubing, assemblies and their connections 63
Figure 25 — Identification of hoses, tubing and assemblies for use with LPG 65

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10 Commissioning 66
Table 7 — Operating pressure (LPG) 67
11 Maintenance 69
Annex A (informative) Guide to sizing pipework installations 70
Table A.1 — Approximate natural gas pressure loss data (mbar/m) - copper tube 71
Table A.2 — Approximate natural gas pressure loss data (mbar/m) – steel tube 72
Table A.3 — Approximate LPG (propane) pressure loss data (mbar/m) - copper tube 73
Table A.4 — Approximate LPG (propane) pressure loss data (mbar/m) - steel tube 75
Table A.5 — Typical allowances for pressure loss of fittings 76
Figure A.1 — Example natural gas installation 77
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Table A.6 — Sizing results 78

Annex B (informative) Sulfidation of natural gas installations 79
Annex C (informative) Summary and principal conclusions of the Advantica Research Project,
Gas in intermediate floors, Report Number 6699 [28] 80
Annex D (informative) Protected area 82
Annex E (normative) LPG Final stage regulator and safety devices 83
Table E.1 — Pressure characteristics of various regulators (LPG) 84
Table E.2 — Minimum proximity distances for relief valve vent tips (millimetres) 86
Annex F (informative) Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations [17], [18] 86
Bibliography 88

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, and inside front cover, pages i to iv, pages 1 to 91, an inside back cover and
a back cover.

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Foreword
Publishing information
This British Standard is published by BSI Standards Limited, under licence from The British
Standards Institution, and came into effect on 30 November 2015. It was prepared by Panel
GSE/30/‑/3, Domestic installation pipes, under the authority of Technical Committee GSE/30, Gas
Installations (1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases). A list of organizations represented on this committee can
be obtained on request to its secretary.
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NOTE 1 The standard now covers the main installation requirements for 3rd family gas installations that were
previously covered by BS 5482‑1.

NOTE 2 The general installation requirements for 3rd family gas installations specified in this standard also apply
to gas installations supplied with LPG/air mixtures used in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man, provided:

• any gas equipment being installed has been appropriately converted and is suitable for the gas being supplied; and

• the requirements of the standard do not conflict with local regulations or authorized local custom and practice.

Supersession
BS 6891:2015+A1:2019 supersedes BS 6891:2015, which is withdrawn.
BS 6891:2015 superseded BS 6891:2005+A2:2008, which has been withdrawn, and partially
superseded BS 5482‑1:2005, which has been partially withdrawn.

Information about this document

In this revision, the layout of the standard has been modified to follow the systematic approach
adopted in other gas installation standards. The revision provides an update of the previous edition
and has been updated to reflect changes in installation practice and legislation, and align with other
appropriate standards. A number of other safety initiatives have also been included that have not
previously been covered elsewhere in detail. The opportunity has also been taken to combine the
pipework requirements for 2nd and 3rd family gas (natural gas and LPG) installations into a single
standard for use by the gas industry.
Text introduced or altered by Amendment No. 1 is indicated in the text by the tags . Minor
editorial changes are not tagged.

Use of this document

It has been assumed in the preparation of this British Standard that the execution of its provisions
will be entrusted to appropriately qualified and experienced people, for whose use it has
been produced.
Users of this British Standard are advised to consider the desirability of selecting products for which
independent quality assurance certification against the appropriate product manufacture standard
has been obtained.

Presentational conventions
The provisions of this standard are presented in roman (i.e. upright) type. Its requirements are
expressed in sentences in which the principal auxiliary verb is “shall”.
Commentary, explanation and general informative material is presented in notes in smaller italic type,
and does not constitute a normative element.

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Contractual and legal considerations

This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a contract. Users are
responsible for its correct application.

Compliance with this British Standard cannot confer immunity from legal obligations.
Attention is drawn to the following statutory regulations:
• The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 [1];
• The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2004 [2];
• The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1994, as amended and applied by the Gas
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Safety (Application) (Isle of Man) Order 1996 [3];

• The Health and Safety (Gas) (Guernsey) Ordinance 2006 [4];
• The Building Regulations 2010 (England and Wales), as amended [5];
• The Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2012 [6];
• The Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004, as amended [7];
• The Gas Safety (Management) Regulations 1996 [8];
• The Gas Safety (Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997 [9].

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1 Scope
This British Standard specifies the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of gas
installation pipework carrying 2nd and 3rd family gas of up to 35 mm (R 1¼) on premises, including
residential park homes (2nd and 3rd family gas) and caravan holiday homes (2nd family gas)
(see Table 1 and examples in Figure 1 to Figure 3; see also Figure 4).
NOTE 1 The principles of the standard can also be applied to the design, installation, commissioning and
maintenance of gas installation pipework carrying 1st family gas.

NOTE 2 Annex A gives a method for calculating pipe sizes. Annex B discusses the sulfidation of natural gas
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installations, while Annex C summarizes the conclusions of a report on gas in intermediate floors. Guidance on
determining whether an area can be deemed a “protected area” is given in Annex D. Requirements for LPG final
stage regulator and safety devices are specified in Annex E. Annex F discusses the need for gas pipework design and
installation for commercial installations to satisfy regulatory requirements regarding explosive atmospheres.

This British Standard is not applicable to:

a) service pipework and distribution systems;
b) pipework contained within an appliance;
c) bulk storage vessels;
d) LPG pipework installed in leisure accommodation vehicles and for accommodation purposes in
vehicles in accordance with BS EN 1949;
e) boats, yachts and other vessels;
f) gas pipework supplying or within appliances having their own gas supply, such as
mobile heaters; or
g) gas pipework supplying or within catering establishments covered by BS 6173.

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Table 1 — Pipework covered by BS 6891

Gas type Pipework Maximum Nominal

nominal operating
diameterA) pressure

mbarB)
2nd family Downstream of the primary meter installation, but not R1¼ steel, 21
downstream of the inlet of any appliance isolation valve
(NG) DN 35A)
or the inlet of the self‑sealing connector of any flexible
connection
3rd family Downstream of: R1¼ steel, 37 (propane)
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(LPG)
•      the emergency control valve (ECV) located on the DN 35 A)
28 (butane)
outside of the property where no meter is fitted; or

•      the outlet of the final regulator where this is located

downstream of the ECV; or

•      the outlet of the final regulator where this is located

downstream of any cylinders and there is no ECV; or

•      the primary meter installation,

but not downstream of the inlet of any appliance isolation

valve or the inlet of the self‑sealing connector of any
flexible connection.
A)
Dependent upon material type.
B)
1 bar = 105 N/m2 = 100 kPa.
NOTE Unless stated otherwise:

a) the diameter for pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing refers to the inside diameter; and

b) the diameter for carbon, stainless-steel tubing, copper and polyethylene (PE) refers to the outside diameter.

Figure 1 — 2nd family gas installation with an internal meter

Key
1 Service pipe 7 Appliance isolation valve
2 Primary meter installation 8 Appliance
3 Installation pipework 9 Part of installation within the scope of BS 6891
4 Appliance connector R Regulator
5 Service isolation valve (where fitted) M Meter
6 Emergency control valve

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Figure 2 — 3rd family gas installation with cylinders

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Key
1 Service pipework 6 Appliance isolation valve
2 Installation pipework 7 Appliance
3 Appliance connector 8 Part of installation within the scope of BS 6891
4 Cylinders R Regulator with over-pressure shut-off
5 Emergency control valve ACD Automatic changeover device

Figure 3 — 3rd family gas installation with bulk storage vessels

Key
1 Service pipework 6 Appliance isolation valve
2 Installation pipework 7 Appliance
3 Appliance connector 8 Part of installation within the scope of BS 6891
4 Bulk storage vessel(s) 9 Vessel isolation valve
5 Emergency control valve R Regulator with over-pressure shut-off

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Figure 4 — Selection of applicable standard(s) for gas installations

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* Industrial and commercial

NOTE For commercial premises less than 35 mm, IGEM/UP/2 [12] may also be utilized.

2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 21, Specification for pipe threads for tubes and fittings where pressure‑tight joints are made on the
threads (metric dimensions)
BS 143, and 1256, Threaded pipe fittings in malleable cast iron and cast copper alloy

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BS 669‑1, Flexible hoses, end fittings and sockets for gas burning appliances — Part 1: Specification for
strip‑wound metallic flexible hoses, covers, end fittings and sockets for domestic appliances burning 1st
and 2nd family gases
BS 669‑2, Flexible hoses, end fittings and sockets for gas burning appliances — Part 2: Specification for
corrugated metallic flexible hoses, covers, end fittings and sockets for catering appliances burning 1st,
2nd and 3rd family gases
BS 864‑2, Capillary and compression tube fittings of copper and copper alloy — Part 2: Specification for
capillary and compression fittings for copper tubes1
BS 1552, Specification for open bottomed taper plug valves for 1st, 2nd and 3rd family gases
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up to 200 mbar
BS 3016, Specification for pressure regulators for liquefied petroleum gases1
BS 3212, Specification for flexible rubber tubing, rubber hose and rubber hose assemblies for use in LPG
vapour phase and LPG/air installations
BS 4371, Specification for fibrous gland packings
BS 5114, Specification for performance requirements for joints and compression fittings for use with
polyethylene pipes1
BS 6172, Installation and maintenance of domestic gas cooking appliances (2nd and 3rd family
gases) — Specification
BS 6362, Specification for stainless steel tubes suitable for screwing in accordance with BS 21 ‘Pipe
threads for tubes and fittings where pressure‑tight joints are made on the threads’
BS 6400‑1, Specification for installation, exchange, relocation and removal of gas meters with a
maximum capacity not exceeding 6 m3/h — Part 1: Low pressure (2nd family gases)
BS 6400‑2, Specification for installation, exchange, relocation and removal of gas meters with a
maximum capacity not exceeding 6 m3/h — Part 2: Medium pressure (2nd family gases)
BS 6400‑3, Specification for installation, exchange, relocation and removal of gas meters with a
maximum capacity not exceeding 6 m3/h – Part 3: Low and medium pressure (3rd family gases)2
BS 6501‑1, Metal hose assemblies — Part 1: Guidance on the construction and use of corrugated
hose assemblies
BS 6956, Jointing materials and compounds
BS 7624, Installation and maintenance of domestic direct gas‑fired tumble dryers of up to 6 kW heat
input (2nd and 3rd family gases) — Specification
BS 7671, Requirements for electrical installations — IET wiring regulations
BS 7838, Specification for corrugated stainless steel semi‑rigid pipe and associated fittings for
low‑pressure gas pipework of up to DN 50
BS 8537, Copper and copper alloys — Plumbing fittings — Specification for press ends of plumbing
fittings for use with metallic tubes
BS EN 331, Manually operated ball valves and closed bottom taper plug valves for gas installations
in buildings
BS EN 751‑1, Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd and 3rd family
gases and hot water — Part 1: Anaerobic jointing compounds

1 Withdrawn.
2 This standard also gives informative references to BS 6400-3:2007.

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BS EN 751‑2, Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd and 3rd family
gases and hot water — Part 2: Non‑hardening jointing compounds
BS EN 751‑3, Sealing materials for metallic threaded joints in contact with 1st, 2nd and 3rd family
gases and hot water — Part 3: Unsintered PTFE tapes
BS EN 1057, Copper and copper alloys — Seamless, round copper tubes for water and gas in sanitary
and heating applications
BS EN 1254‑1, Copper and copper alloys — Plumbing fittings — Part 1: Fittings with ends for capillary
soldering or capillary brazing to copper tubes
BS EN 1254‑2, Copper and copper alloys — Plumbing fittings — Part 2: Fittings with compression ends
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for use with copper tubes

BS EN 1254‑4, Copper and copper alloys — Plumbing fittings — Part 4: Fittings combining other end
connections with capillary or compression ends
BS EN 1254‑5, Copper and copper alloys — Plumbing fittings — Part 5: Fittings with short ends for
capillary brazing to copper tubes
BS EN 1555‑1, Plastics piping systems for the supply of gaseous fuels — Polyethylene (PE) —
Part 1: General
BS EN 1555‑2, Plastics piping systems for the supply of gaseous fuels — Polyethylene (PE) —
Part 2: Pipes
BS EN 1555‑3, Plastics piping systems for the supply of gaseous fuels — Polyethylene (PE) —
Part 3: Fittings
BS EN 1775:2007, Gas supply — Gas pipework for buildings — Maximum operating pressure less than
or equal to 5 bar — Functional recommendation
BS EN 10216‑1, Seamless steel tubes for pressure purposes — Technical delivery conditions — Part 1:
Non‑alloy steel tubes with specified room temperature properties
BS EN 10216‑2, Seamless steel tubes for pressure purposes — Technical delivery conditions — Part 2:
Non‑alloy and alloy steel tubes with specified elevated temperature properties
BS EN 10216‑5, Seamless steel tubes for pressure purposes — Technical delivery conditions — Part 5:
Stainless steel tubes
BS EN 10217‑1, Welded steel tubes for pressure purposes — Technical delivery conditions — Part 1:
Non‑alloy steel tubes with specified room temperature properties
BS EN 10217‑2, Welded steel tubes for pressure purposes — Technical delivery conditions — Part 2:
Electric welded non‑alloy and alloy steel tubes with specified elevated temperature properties
BS EN 10217‑7, Welded steel tubes for pressure purposes — Technical delivery conditions — Part 7:
Stainless steel tubes
BS EN 10226‑1, Pipe threads where pressure tight joints are made on the threads — Part 1: Taper
external threads and parallel internal threads — Dimensions, tolerances and designation
BS EN 10241, Steel threaded pipe fittings
BS EN 10242 (all parts), Threaded pipe fittings in malleable cast iron
BS EN 10255, Non‑alloy steel tubes suitable for welding and threading — Technical delivery conditions
BS EN 10312, Welded stainless steel tubes for the conveyance of aqueous liquids including water for
human consumption — Technical delivery conditions

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BS EN 12864, Low‑pressure, non adjustable regulators having a maximum outlet pressure of less than
or equal to 200 mbar, with a capacity of less than or equal to 4 kg/h, and their associated safety devices
for butane, propane or their mixtures3
BS EN 13349, Copper and copper alloys — Pre‑insulated copper tubes with solid covering
BS EN 13785, Regulators with a capacity of up to and including 100 kg/h, having a maximum nominal
outlet pressure of up to and including 4 bar, other than those covered by EN 12864 and their associated
safety devices for butane, propane or their mixtures3
BS EN 13786, Automatic change‑over valves having a maximum outlet pressure of up to and
including 4 bar with a capacity of up to and including 100 kg/h, and their associated safety devices for
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butane, propane or their mixtures3

BS EN 15069, Safety gas connection valves for metal hose assemblies used for the connection of
domestic appliances using gaseous fuel
BS EN 15266, Stainless steel pliable corrugated tubing kits in buildings for gas with an operating
pressure up to 0.5 bar
BS EN 16129, Pressure regulators, automatic change‑over devices, having a maximum regulated
pressure of 4 bar, with a maximum capacity of 150 kg/h, associated safety devices and adaptors for
butane, propane, and their mixtures
BS EN 16436‑1, Rubber and plastics hoses, tubing and assemblies for use with propane and butane and
their mixture in the vapour phase — Part 1: Hoses and tubings
BS EN ISO 228‑1, Pipe threads where pressure‑tight joints are not made on the threads — Part 1:
Dimensions, tolerances and designation
BS EN ISO 10380, Pipework — Corrugated metal hoses and hose assemblies
ISO 7‑1, Pipe threads where pressure-tight joints are made on the threads — Part 1: Dimensions,
tolerances and designation

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this British Standard, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1 additional emergency control valve (AECV)

valve, not being the emergency control valve (ECV), for shutting off the supply of gas in an emergency,
intended for use by a gas consumer
NOTE An AECV might not isolate all the gas consumer’s gas installation.

3.2 appliance isolation valve

manual valve to shut off the gas supply to an individual appliance

3.3 basement
part of a building that is partly or wholly underground
NOTE For the purposes of this definition, a room which is built into a hillside is not considered partially
underground if at least one (outside) wall of the room is at the same level or at a higher level than the area outside.
Additionally, the area outside should not itself be considered to be at a lower level than the wider topography. The
ultimate test should be that if an LPG leak occurred in such a room, it could disperse safely to outside (and away)
rather than build up either in the room, in other areas of the building or in the immediate area outside the room.

3 Current, though superseded by BS EN 16129.

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3.4 bulk storage vessel

permanently‑installed vessel for the storage of LPG under pressure, which is filled in situ

3.5 caravan holiday home

transportable leisure accommodation vehicle that does not meet the requirements for construction
and use of road vehicles, that retains means for mobility and is for temporary or seasonal occupation
[SOURCE: BS EN 1949:2011+A1:2013, 3.4]

3.6 compartment floor

floor that separates one dwelling from the rest of the building
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3.7 concrete slab

cast in situ concrete which forms the structural load bearing part of a floor

3.8 cylinder
portable and refillable cylinder/vessel containing LPG under pressure

3.9 duct
enclosed space specifically designed and constructed for the passage of building services

3.10 electrofusion joint

joint formed between polyethylene components using fittings which have an integrated electric
heating element
[SOURCE: BS EN 1775:2007, 3.4.5]

3.11 emergency control valve (ECV)

valve, not being an additional emergency control valve (AECV), for shutting off the supply of
gas in an emergency, intended for use by a gas consumer and installed at the end of a service or
service pipework

3.12 fire compartment

building or part of a building comprising one or more rooms, spaces or storeys, constructed to
prevent the spread of fire to or from another part of the same building
NOTE A roof space above the top storey of a fire compartment is included in the compartment where the walls of
that compartment extend up to the roof line.

3.13 floor screed

mix of, typically, sand and cement used as a non‑structural floor finish/topping

3.14 installation pipework

pipework or fitting from the outlet of the primary meter installation or, for LPG installations where no
meter is fitted, the outlet of the ECV to points at which appliances/equipment are to be connected
NOTE This definition varies from that given in the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 [1]. This
term does not refer to:

•      a service (pipe) or distribution main or other pipeline;

•      a pipe or fitting forming part of a gas appliance;

•      a pipe or fitting within a primary meter installation; or

•      any valve attached to a storage container or cylinder.

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Hereafter referred to as “pipework”.

3.15 intermediate floor

floor that separates one living space from another living space in the same dwelling
NOTE This is not a compartment floor that separates one dwelling from another part of the building.

3.16 leisure accommodation vehicle

unit of living accommodation for temporary or seasonal occupation
NOTE Such vehicles might meet the requirements of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986,
as amended [13], and include touring caravans, motor caravans and caravan holiday homes.
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3.17 limited relief valve

device which is part of the regulator and which limits, in the event of a failure, the pressure rise above
a predetermined value without shutting off the flow of gas

3.18 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)

commercial butane or commercial propane
NOTE BS 4250 specifies requirements for commercial butane and commercial propane.

3.19 LPG supplier

person or organization who provides LPG to a gas consumer, either by means of the filling or refilling
of a storage vessel, or in refillable cylinders

3.20 mechanical joint

joint in which gas tightness is achieved by compression with or without a seal and which can be
disassembled and reassembled
[SOURCE: BS EN 1775:2007, 3.4.3]

3.21 meter installation

installation that comprises a primary meter, valves, filter, meter regulator and associated safety
devices, pliable connector, interconnecting pipework, fittings and support
NOTE 1 A meter installation commences at the outlet of the ECV. Depending on the type of meter installation it
terminates at:

• the outlet connection of the meter;

• the outlet of the meter outlet adaptor if fitted; or

• in the case of a semi‑concealed meter with a pliable connector downstream of the meter, the outlet of the meter
box outlet adaptor.

[SOURCE: BS 6400‑3:2007, 3.23, modified]

NOTE 2 A typical installation with pipework is shown in Figure 1.

3.22 multi‑occupancy building

building that contains multiple domestic dwellings or a building that contains both multiple domestic
dwelling(s) and commercial unit(s)

3.23 nominal operating pressure (NOP)

pressure under which the appliance(s) operates in nominal condition when supplied with the
corresponding reference gas

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3.24 operating pressure

pressure at which a gas system operates under normal conditions

3.25 over-pressure shut‑off (OPSO)

shut‑off device, triggered by an excess outlet pressure, which causes the complete shut-off of the flow
of gas for all values of inlet pressure
NOTE This device is normally an integral part of the regulator. It may also be referred to as a “slam shut valve” or
“over-pressure cut‑off” (OPCO).

[SOURCE: BS 6400‑3:2007, 3.25.1, modified]

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3.26 permanent dwelling

structure of a permanent nature used primarily for domestic purposes

3.27 pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing

tubing of stainless steel, capable of being bent easily by hand a limited number of times and covered
with an outer sheath by the manufacturer at the time of production
NOTE The term is sometimes abbreviated to corrugated stainless-steel tubing (CSST) or pliable tubing (PLT).
This product should not be confused with the pliable connectors referred to in BS 6400, which are not covered by an
outer sheath and have factory‑fitted end connections.

3.28 power‑floated floor

floor finish formed by powered rotary metal blades passed over a partly cured concrete floor slab to
form a monolithic structure, which avoids the need for a separate screed to provide the floor finish

3.29 precast flooring

factory-produced concrete flooring system that provides the structural load bearing part of the floor
EXAMPLE Concrete plank or concrete beam and block suspended flooring systems.

3.30 press end joint

joint in which tightness is achieved by using an appropriate tool for either compressing a fitting to
form the joint or expanding a pipe to enable forming the joint
NOTE Such a joint cannot be disassembled and reused.

3.31 primary meter

meter nearest to and downstream of a service pipe or service pipework for ascertaining the volume
of gas supplied through that pipe by a gas supplier

3.32 protected area

ventilated space containing gas pipework, and isolated from other parts of a building within
fire‑resisting construction, which includes:
a) a common stairway, corridor or lobby that provides an escape route from a building to a place of
safety and access for firefighting purposes (referred to within Building Regulations [5], [6], [7] as
a “protected shaft”, “protected stairway”, “protected corridor/lobby” or “protected zone”); and
b) a service shaft/duct, which can also contain electrical and water services
NOTE Fire‑resisting is the ability of a component or construction of a building to satisfy for a stated period
of time some or all of the appropriate criteria specified in the relevant part of BS 476. Additional guidance on
determining whether an area can be deemed a “protected area” or otherwise is given in Annex D.

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3.33 range‑rated appliance

appliance that has the facility for an operative to adjust the heat input of the appliance within a
narrow range of minimum and maximum heat inputs stated by the manufacturer to suit the actual
heat requirements of the system
NOTE The range between minimum and maximum heat inputs is in the region of 3 kW.

3.34 regulator
device that controls the pressure at its outlet within predetermined parameters

3.35 residential park home

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caravan used for permanent residence

NOTE Such caravans do not meet all of the requirements of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations
1986, as amended [13]. These are covered by BS 3632. “Permanent residence” is defined in the Caravan Sites and
Control of Development Act 1960 [14] and the Caravans Sites Act 1968 [15].

3.36 service pipe

pipe for distributing gas to premises from a distribution main, being any pipe between the
distribution main and the outlet of the first emergency control valve

3.37 service pipework

pipe for supplying gas to premises from a gas storage vessel, being any pipe between the gas storage
vessel and the outlet of the ECV

3.38 sleeve
protective pipe forming an annulus embedded in the structure through which pipework can be
inserted and withdrawn

3.39 threaded joint

joint in which gas tightness is achieved by metal-to-metal contact within threads with the assistance
of a sealant
[SOURCE: BS EN 1775:2007, 3.4.2]

3.40 under-pressure shut‑off (UPSO)

device integral to the regulator, which causes the complete shut-off of the gas flow when the outlet
pressure is below a predetermined value
[SOURCE: BS 6400-3:2007, 3.25.2]

3.41 void
enclosed space not specifically designed for the passage of building services

3.42 variable‑rated appliance

appliance that has the facility for an operative to set the heat input of the appliance within a wide
range of heat inputs stated by the manufacturer to suit the actual heat requirements of the system

4 Competence
Persons carrying out work that will have an impact on work covered by the scope of this standard
shall ensure that they have the competence relevant for the task such as not to compromise

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the requirements/recommendations of this standard and in particular the safe installation,

commissioning and operation of gas equipment.
COMMENTARY ON CLAUSE 4
Competence requires sufficient knowledge, practical skill and experience to carry out the job in hand
safely, with due regard to good working practice. The installation should also be left in a safe condition
for use. Knowledge should be kept up to date with changes in law, technology and safe working practice.
It is a statutory requirement in Great Britain, the Isle of Man, Northern Ireland and Guernsey (see
Table 2 ) that all “gas work” be carried out by a business or self‑employed person(s) that is a member of
a “class of persons” registered with a registration body which has been approved by an approval body
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(see Table 2 ) to operate and maintain such a register.

At the time of publication, the only body with approval to operate and maintain a register of
individuals/businesses who are “members of a class of persons” is the Gas Safe Register. Thus, it is
essential that all businesses or self‑employed gas engineers are registered with the Gas Safe Register.
The qualifications which persons need to have to be deemed competent to carry out gas work are
given in Table 3.
Table 2 — Approval bodies and statutory regulations by country/territory

Country/territory Approval body Statutory regulations

Great Britain Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Gas Safety (Installation and Use)
Regulations 1998 [1]
Isle of Man Health and Safety at Work Inspectorate Gas Safety (Installation and Use)
(HSWI) Regulations 1994, as amended and applied
by the Gas Safety (Application) (Isle of Man)
Order 1996 [3]
Northern Ireland Health and Safety Executive Northern Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations
Ireland (HSENI) (Northern Ireland) 2004 [2]
Guernsey Health and Safety Executive for the Health and Safety (Gas) (Guernsey)
States of Guernsey [HSE (Guernsey)] Ordinance 2006 [4]

Table 3 — Competence requirements by country/territory

Qualifications Great Britain Northern Guernsey

and Isle of Man Ireland
Current certificate(s) of competence in the   
type of gas work to be conducted, issued by an
awarding body accredited by the United Kingdom
Accreditation Service (UKAS) (ACS certification)
National/Scottish Vocational Qualification (N/SVQ   
accredited by Ofqual), which is aligned in matters of
gas safety
National/Scottish Vocational Qualification (N/   
SVQ accredited by Ofqual), which is aligned under
the HSC ACoP arrangementA) as approved with the
registration body
Any other scheme recognized by the gas   
registration body for registration purposes
A)
Guidance on the individual competence required for gas work is given in IGEM/IG/1: Standards of
training in gas work [16].

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5 Design and planning

5.1 Exchange of information and time schedule
5.1.1 At the initial stages of building/installation design and planning it shall be verified that the pipework
will be adequate for the known requirements.
NOTE Gas pipework design and installation for commercial installations undertaken in accordance with this
British Standard need to account for any requirements imposed by DSEAR [17], [18]. Additional information can be
found in Annex F.

5.1.2 All necessary information regarding the routing of pipework and positions of valves and termination
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points to serve the appliances shall be made available by means of drawings, specifications and
consultations, as appropriate.
NOTE Any drawings should include:

a) the positions of voids, shafts, ducts and channels when pipework is to be concealed;

b) special requirements of a precautionary nature, e.g. limitations on proximity to other services or effects of
differential movement due to the building construction; and

c) sizes, materials and positions of all pipework and fittings.

5.1.3 Any pipework installed shall be tested for gas tightness in accordance with 10.2 before being buried,
covered, painted or wrapped.

5.2 Sizing
5.2.1 When designing an installation, the size of all pipework shall be such that the gas is at a suitable
pressure at the inlet of any gas appliance to ensure that it meets the required appliance heat input.
Where any sections of the pipework supply gas to multiple appliances, the heat input of all appliances
fed by that section of pipework shall be taken into account.
NOTE Annex A gives a method for calculating pipe sizes in a system.

5.2.2 The design maximum pressure loss for all pipework shall not exceed that specified in 5.3.2 or 5.4.2 in
the following circumstances:
a) new installations;
b) pipework modification or extension to existing installations;
c) before any new appliance is fitted to a new or existing installation; and
d) increasing any appliance heat input.
NOTE The design pressure loss of existing installations that are not subject to the modifications listed in b), c) or
d) should conform to the standard that was applicable at the time of installation, for example previous editions of
BS 6891 for natural gas and BS 5482‑1 for LPG.

5.2.3 For range‑rated appliances, the installer shall use the maximum heat input to ensure the pipework is
sized to meet the requirements of 5.2.1 and 5.2.2.
NOTE For combination boilers where the maximum heat input is different for the hot water and heating modes,
the higher of the two heat inputs should be used.

5.2.4 For variable‑rated appliances, the installer shall establish the heat input necessary to meet the
requirements of the system and shall use this value to ensure the pipework is sized to meet the
requirements of 5.2.1 and 5.2.2.
NOTE For combination boilers where the maximum heat input is different for the hot water and heating modes,
the higher of the two heat inputs should be used.

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5.3 Natural gas installations

5.3.1 Meter installation
The meter and other meter installation components shall be of sufficient capacity for the installation
design load.
NOTE Further information on meter installations is given in BS 6400‑1 and BS 6400‑2, IGEM/GM/6 [10] or IGE/
GM/8 [11], as appropriate.

5.3.2 Pipework
The design pressure loss between the outlet of the primary meter installation and the point to
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be connected on any appliance inlet shall not exceed 1 mbar at the design installation flow rate
(see 5.2.3 and 5.2.4).
NOTE See Figure 5 for illustrative examples.

5.4 LPG installations

5.4.1 Storage vessels, service pipework, regulators and meter installation
The storage vessel(s), service pipework, regulators, meter (where applicable) and other supply
equipment installed shall be of sufficient capacity for the installation.
NOTE Further information on meter installations is given in BS 6400‑3. Further information on storage vessel(s),
service pipework and regulators (where no meter is fitted) is given in UKLPG Codes of Practice 1 and 22 [19], [20].

Requirements for LPG final stage regulator and safety devices are specified in Annex E.

Figure 5 — Sizing pipework — Design maximum pressure loss for typical installations

a) Typical natural gas installation

b) Typical LPG installation incorporating a meter

c) Typical LPG cylinder installation incorporating an automatic changeover device and ECV

d) Typical LPG bulk storage vessel installation with low pressure service pipework

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Figure 5 (continued)

e) Typical LPG bulk storage vessel installation with medium pressure service pipework
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Key
1 Emergency control valve (ECV) R Meter regulator
2 First and final stage regulators (upstream of M Meter
ECV) • Point to be connected on an appliance
3 First stage regulator (upstream of ECV) ACD Automatic changeover device (incorporating
4 Final stage regulator (downstream of ECV) regulator)

5.4.2 Pipework
The design pressure loss between the outlet of the primary meter installation, or where no meter is
installed, the outlet of the ECV or the outlet of the final stage regulator when fitted after the ECV and
the point to be connected on any appliance inlet shall not exceed 2 mbar at the design installation
flow rate (see 5.2.3 and 5.2.4).
NOTE See Figure 5 for illustrative examples. For LPG/air installations the typical operating pressure loss allowed
for in the design calculations is 2 mbar.

5.5 Purge points

Where it is not possible to purge through an appliance with an open burner, purge points shall be
provided to enable the installation to be adequately purged (see IGEM/UP/1 series of standards [21],
[22], [23]).

6 Materials and components

COMMENTARY ON CLAUSE 6
When selecting materials for use as pipework, consideration should be given to strength,
appearance and the need for protection against corrosion. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use)
Regulations 1998 [1] prohibit the installation of lead or lead alloy pipes supplying gas. However,
historically, lead pipes were used to install gas meters, and lead alloy pipes (known as lead composition
pipes) were installed as pipework and can still be found in old housing stock. Provided this material is in
good condition, sound, well‑supported and of adequate size, connection can be made to steel or copper
pipework using appropriate fittings (see Clause 7).

6.1 General
Materials used for pipework and fittings shall conform to 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5 and/or 6.6, as appropriate.

6.2 Steel
6.2.1 Steel tubes shall conform to:
• BS EN 10216‑1 and BS EN 10217‑1 and/or BS EN 10216‑2;
• BS EN 10217‑2; or

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• BS EN 10255.
6.2.2 Rigid stainless-steel tubes shall conform to:
• BS 6362;
• BS EN 10216‑5;
• BS EN 10217‑7; or
• BS EN 10312.
6.2.3 Pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing shall conform to:
• BS 7838; or
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• BS EN 15266.
6.2.4 Steel fittings shall confirm to BS EN 10241.

6.3 Malleable iron and cast copper alloy

Malleable iron and cast copper alloy fittings shall conform to:
• BS 143 and 1256; and/or
• BS EN 10242 (all parts).

6.4 Copper
6.4.1 Copper tube shall conform to:
• BS EN 1057; or
• BS EN 13349.
6.4.2 Capillary and mechanical fittings shall conform to:
• BS EN 1254‑1;
• BS EN 1254‑2;
• BS EN 1254‑4; or
• BS EN 1254‑5.
6.4.3 Copper and copper alloy press end connections shall conform to BS 8537, Type 2.
NOTE Sometimes referred to as “press‑fit fittings”.

COMMENTARY ON 6.4
Brazed joints should be made in accordance with BS EN 14324 , using BS EN 1044 filler metals.
Soft solder should conform to BS EN 29453.
Sulfidation of the gas supplies can be a problem in some areas of the United Kingdom. See Annex B for
further information.

6.5 Polyethylene
6.5.1 Polyethylene tubes shall conform to:
• BS EN 1555‑1; or
• BS EN 1555‑2,
as appropriate.
6.5.2 Polyethylene fittings shall conform to:
• BS 5114; or

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• BS EN 1555‑3,
as appropriate.

6.6 Jointing materials and compounds

Jointing materials and compounds shall conform, as appropriate, to the applicable parts of:
• BS 4371;
• BS 6956; or
• BS EN 751,
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as appropriate.
NOTE Fibrous materials such as hemp conforming to BS 4371 should be used with the appropriate jointing
compound (see 7.6).

6.7 Valves
6.7.1 Valves shall conform, as appropriate, to:
• BS 1552; or
• BS EN 331; or
• PRS1/E [24]; or
• GIS/V7‑3 [25].
6.7.2 Lubricants used in valves shall be of a type suitable for use with the gas.
6.7.3 For LPG installations, plug valves shall be spring‑loaded.

6.8 Self‑sealing sockets

Only self‑sealing sockets conforming to BS 669‑1, BS 669‑2 or BS EN 15069, as appropriate, shall be
used for gas installations. These shall be installed in accordance with BS 6172 or BS 7624.

6.9 Flexible hoses, tubing, assemblies and their connections

6.9.1 LPG hoses, tubing and assemblies shall conform to:
• BS 3212; or
• BS 6501‑1; or
• BS EN 16436‑1; or
• BS EN ISO 10380.
6.9.2 LPG hoses and tubing connections (including nozzles and adaptors) shall conform to:
• BS 3212; or
• BS EN 16129.
6.9.3 Natural gas hoses, tubing and assemblies shall conform to:
• BS 6501‑1; or
• BS EN ISO 10380.

7 Jointing
7.1 General
7.1.1 All joints shall be made in such a manner as to avoid undue stress on the fitting.

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7.1.2 All pipework ends shall be square‑cut and deburred, as appropriate, and finished joints shall be
visually examined for defects.
7.1.3 All joints shall be mechanically strong and gas‑tight.

7.2 Capillary fittings

7.2.1 Finished joints shall be visually examined to confirm that the solder has run completely
around the joint.
7.2.2 Any flux selected for use shall only remain active during the heating process. All flux residues shall be
wiped from the pipework and fittings when the joint has cooled.
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7.2.3 It is important that pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing is not contaminated in any way with
flux or solder, either internally or externally. Any soldering on adjacent copper pipework shall be
completed, and the soldered component thoroughly cleaned of flux, before any connection to pliable
corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing is made.
NOTE Copper pipework can be jointed without conventional fittings by the use of purpose‑made tools that form
the pipework ends in accordance with BS EN 1254‑1 or BS EN 1254‑5.

7.3 Mechanical joints

7.3.1 Any mechanical joint shall be located in a readily accessible position that allows the fitting to be
tightened to make a gas‑tight joint.
7.3.2 Union joints shall be of the ground‑faced or compression type.

7.4 Press end connections

7.4.1 All press end connections shall be assembled in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
7.4.2 The installer shall instruct the gas consumer/responsible person to ensure that the fittings are
not painted with oil or solvent‑based paints unless otherwise specified in the manufacturer’s
instructions.
NOTE The yellow colour of the bodies of press end connections should remain visible after installation.

7.5 Pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing and fittings

Pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing and fittings shall be assembled in accordance with the
manufacturers’ instructions.

7.6 Screwed joints

7.6.1 Threads shall conform to:
• BS 21;
• BS 864‑2;
• BS EN 1254‑4;
• BS EN 10226‑1;
• BS EN ISO 228‑1; or
• ISO 7‑1.
7.6.2 All threads shall be cleaned prior to the application of any jointing material.
7.6.3 Fibrous materials such as hemp shall not be used on any threaded joint, except in conjunction with
jointing compounds for existing long screw back‑nut seals.

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7.6.4 Jointing compounds and tapes shall conform to BS EN 751‑1 (compounds), BS EN 751‑2 (anaerobic
sealants) or BS EN 751‑3 (tapes), as appropriate, and shall be applied in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
COMMENTARY ON 7.6
When jointing compounds are used they should only be applied to the external threads, and any
excess paste should be removed on completion of the joint. Jointing compound should not be used in
conjunction with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) materials.
It is important that any cutting oil residue is removed from the inside and outside of the pipework.

7.7 Lead composition pipework

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When lead composition pipework is encountered and any connection joint has to be made, then
only a soldered cup joint onto copper pipework or a suitable brass union fitting shall be made.
Compression fittings designed for jointing water weight lead pipework shall not be used.

7.8 Electrofusion joints

Relevant information shall be obtained from the manufacturer of the PE pipe/fittings.
NOTE Solvent welding is not acceptable (see 8.15).

8 Installation
8.1 General
8.1.1 Where pipework is liable to mechanical damage, it shall be physically protected. While installation
work is in progress, precautions shall be taken to prevent the ingress of dirt, water, etc.,
into pipework.
8.1.2 The bore of any pipework shall not be restricted by kinks, burrs, foreign matter or in any other way.
8.1.3 Pipework shall be installed so as not to impair the structural stability, fire resistance, damp-proof
course, or thermal and sound insulation of the building.
8.1.4 Pipework shall be situated such that, in the event of a gas escape, gas is not capable of
entering cavities.
8.1.5 Pipework shall not be installed in any location where, if there is a requirement to gain access to the
pipe in the future, this could affect the structural stability of the building.
8.1.6 For LPG installations, pipework entries to, and exits from, buildings shall always be above ground.
8.1.7 Pipework shall not be installed in a position where it is likely to be exposed to a corrosive
environment.
8.1.8 Pipework and fittings that are considered to be at risk of corrosion and degradation shall either be
manufactured from materials that are inherently resistant to corrosion or shall otherwise be suitably
protected against corrosion.
NOTE Examples of pipework that is likely to be susceptible to corrosion and degradation are:

•      pipework buried in solid floors (see 8.10);

•      pipework buried in walls (see 8.11); and

•      buried external pipework (see 8.13).

8.1.9 All sections of pipework considered to be at risk of corrosion and degradation shall be protected,
including any joints and fittings.

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8.1.10 Any factory-finished protection shall be examined for cuts or other defects and made good prior to
use. Any damage shall be repaired in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to give at least
the same level of protection that was afforded before the damage. Any onsite protection shall be
applied to clean and dry pipework and fittings.
8.1.11 Pipework in fireplace openings shall be factory-finished protected pipe and/or wrapped on site.
8.1.12 Assembled pipework shall be tested for gas tightness in accordance with 10.2 before any additional
protection against corrosion and degradation is applied on site.
COMMENTARY ON 8.1.7 TO 8.1.12
Factory-finished protected pipe should be used wherever practicable. Factory-finished protection
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can take the form of pre‑insulation coatings, coverings, sheathings, wrapping, dipping, galvanizing
or painting.
Where possible, pre‑insulation coatings, coverings, sheathings and wrapping should be coloured yellow
ochre in accordance with BS 1710:1984, O8 C 35.
Where it is not practicable to use or obtain factory-finished protected pipe, protection should be applied
on site and in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions where applicable. Where wrapping tape is
to be used, the pipework should be clean, dry and applied in accordance with the tape manufacturer’s
instructions. A minimum 55% overlap should be used to provide a layer of at least double thickness.
Care should be taken to avoid damaging protective coatings during storage, when bending and
when installing.
Protection of joints requires special attention; exposed threads are particularly vulnerable to corrosion.
Site protection should be suitably selected for the application (for example, to stop the ingress of
water) and can be achieved by the application of PVC wrapping tapes, self‑bonding silicone tapes,
grease‑impregnated tape or bituminous paints applied in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
where applicable.
Where pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tube fittings are used in an area considered to be at risk of
corrosion and degradation, each fitting should be assembled in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions to ensure a liquid-proof seal is achieved between the factory-applied cover and the wall of
the fitting.
Some pre‑insulation coatings, coverings, sheathings and wrapping tapes suffer from colour fade and
surface cracking due to the effects of ozone or when exposed to direct sunlight or other ultra‑violet (UV)
sources. Therefore, care should be taken to ensure a suitable material is selected.
Potentially corrosive environments also include coastal areas. Soot and debris in fireplace openings can
be highly corrosive.
Copper pipework with soft-soldered capillary joints should not be located where it is liable to be
subjected to temperatures in excess of 100 °C.

8.2 Connection to the meter installation

Where the meter is not securely restrained (e.g. by a meter bracket fastened to the floor/wall),
the connection to the meter installation shall be in securely-fixed rigid pipework for at least the
first 600 mm.

8.3 Safety precautions

8.3.1 Prior to any work being undertaken on the pipework a risk assessment shall be carried out. This
shall include:
a) risks involved in working on installations that contain fuel gas; and

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b) stray electrical currents.

8.3.2 Suitable precautions shall be taken to determine the possibility of stray electrical voltages
being present.
NOTE The use of a non‑contact voltage detector (single pole) capable of indicating voltages of 50 V or greater
(see Figure 6 for an example) on all exposed metalwork in the work area assists in the detection of stray voltage
that might be harmful. It should be noted that such voltage detectors are not designed to respond to current flow
and should be used in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions. Where any doubt about the electrical
installation exists, the advice of a competent electrician should be sought.

Figure 6 — Non‑contact voltage detector (single pole) — Example

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8.3.3 Where an installation is temporarily isolated to allow work to be undertaken on it, the risks involved
in working on an installation that contains fuel gas shall be assessed.
8.3.4 During any work that necessitates removal of a meter, breaking into the gas supply, or connection
or disconnection of any metal pipework, a temporary continuity bond shall be fixed securely to the
pipework either side of any intended connection or disconnection point or between the pipework
and any fitting to be installed or removed. Such a temporary continuity bond shall always be used
irrespective of any permanent protective bonding that is installed (see Figure 7).
COMMENTARY ON 8.3.4
A recommended temporary continuity bond comprises at least 1.2 m of single‑core insulated flexible
cable or equivalent of at least 250 V ac rating. The cable should have a cross‑sectional area of not
less than 10 mm2 and be of multi‑strand flexible construction, generally in accordance with BS 6004,
BS 6007 or BS 6231, and with a robust clip or clamp firmly attached at each end.
The recommended disconnection procedure is as follows.
a) Isolate the electrical connection of associated gas appliances from the electricity supply.
b) Clip or clamp a temporary continuity bond to each side of the union, fittings or complete section to
be removed or connected, ensuring that good, secure, metallic contact is made (see Figure 7).
c) Leave the bond in position until after the work is completed and metallic continuity re‑established.
Where pipework is to be removed, ensure that both sections of pipework left are bonded before
removing the temporary electrical continuity bonding conductors.

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Figure 7 — Use of temporary continuity bond

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a) At pipe

b) At meter

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Figure 7 (continued)

Key
1 Pipework to be cut out
2 Temporary continuity bond
3 Meter to be temporarily removed

8.3.5 Before any work is commenced on an installation, or section of an installation, where there is a risk
of any gas within the pipework being ignited and constituting a danger (for example, when using a
blowlamp) the following precautions shall be taken.
a) Conduct a tightness test in accordance with IGEM/UP/1 [21], IGEM/UP/1A [22] or IGEM/UP/1B
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[23], as appropriate, on the installation or section of the installation, in particular to verify that
there is no let‑by from the valve used to isolate the gas supply. Where a leak or let‑by is found,
rectify this before proceeding.
b) Disconnect the gas supply to the installation or section of the installation.
c) Remove any meter, where fitted in the section to be worked upon, from the installation or section
of the installation.
d) Immediately seal all exposed gas ways, for example open ends on the pipework and/or meter,
with an appropriate fitting.
e) Increase natural ventilation in the work area where possible.
Oxy‑gas flame cutting equipment shall not be applied to any pipework or fitting containing gas.
When working with a naked flame or other source of heat in the vicinity of combustible material,
precautions shall be taken to avoid a fire hazard.
COMMENTARY ON 8.3.5
These are safety precautions that might reduce the risk of any gas being inadvertently ignited and
constituting a danger. Where it is considered that, even when having taken these measures there
could still be a risk of gas igniting, the gas operative may choose to purge the installation of any gas.
Additional guidance on purging installations of any gas (decommissioning) can be found in IGEM/
UP/1 [21], IGEM/UP/1A [22] and IGEM/UP/1B [23].
It is difficult to specify an exact set of parameters that indicate when an installation will or will not
need to be decommissioned prior to working on it due to the diversity of installations that might be
encountered.
8.3.6 All open ends of the pipework shall be sealed with an appropriate fitting before any work is
left unattended.
8.3.7 Where work is in progress on the pipework that exposes the gas ways, for example open ends on the
pipework, sources of ignition shall be kept away from the exposed gas ways.
8.3.8 When work has been completed, the open ends of pipework shall be sealed with an appropriate
fitting that will facilitate purging the installation, for example suitably plugged or capped.
8.3.9 When any installation is to be decommissioned (for example, prior to the installation removal
or property demolition), a risk assessment shall be carried out to determine whether there is a
requirement to purge any fuel gas from the installation (see IGEM/UP/1 [21], IGEM/UP/1A [22] and
IGEM/UP/1B [23]).
NOTE It is difficult to specify an exact set of parameters that state when an installation should or should not be
purged of fuel gas (decommissioned) due to the diversity of installations that can be encountered.

Where the meter is removed BS 6400 should be consulted.

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8.3.10 Where any pipework is no longer required, the pipework shall be disconnected as close to the point
of connection to the live gas supply as practicable. In all circumstances, any exposed gas ways shall
be sealed with an appropriate fitting and any part of the installation that might contain gas shall be
labelled as such.
8.3.11 Precautions shall be taken to avoid damage to any electrical conductor when installing pipework.

8.4 Interrelation with other services

8.4.1 General
[Link] Pipework shall be located or electrically insulated such that it does not touch metallic fitments that
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could promote electrolytic corrosion.

[Link] Pipework shall:
a) not be installed in a ventilation or air‑conditioning duct (see 8.1.11 and 8.1.12 for pipework in
the fireplace opening); and
b) be physically spaced from other services, such as water, electricity, telecommunications
and drainage.
[Link] Pipework shall not be buried in floors together with electrical underfloor heating, unless the
underfloor heating has been physically and permanently disconnected.

8.4.2 Separation of pipework from electrical services

[Link] Where installation pipework is not separated from electrical equipment or cables by an insulating
enclosure, dividing barrier, trunking or conduit, it shall be spaced as follows:
a) at least 150 mm away from electricity supply equipment, such as metering equipment, main
service cut-outs or supplier (main) isolation switches, and distribution boards or consumer
units; and
b) at least 25 mm away from electrical switches, sockets and electricity supply and
distribution cables.
[Link] The installation pipework shall not be positioned in a manner that prevents the operation of any
electrical accessory, i.e. a switch or socket outlet.
NOTE Where these spacing requirements are impracticable the pipework should either be sheathed with
an electrical insulating material rated at 230 V ac or more, or a panel of electrical insulating material should
be interposed.

8.4.3 Main protective bonding conductor

[Link] A gas installation within a property with an electrical supply shall have a main protective bonding
conductor connecting the pipework to the electrical installation’s main earth terminal, as
specified in BS 7671.
COMMENTARY ON [Link]
The purpose of protective bonding is to create a zone in which voltage differences through differing
earth potentials are eliminated, and therefore hazards from electric shocks are minimized. This
is achieved by connecting separate conductive components, such as the various metallic building
services and structural steelwork, together with a main protective bonding conductor at the main
earth terminal.
It is possible for stray currents to be transmitted through the gas pipework. Therefore, to avoid electric
shock or a spark which could ignite the gas, it is important to maintain electrical continuity in the
pipework at all times.

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[Link] The main protective bonding conductor (main equipotential bonding connection) shall be connected
to the gas consumer’s fixed rigid pipework on the outlet of any primary meter installation, if fitted:
a) as near as is practicable to the point of entry into the premises;
b) before any branch in the pipework;
c) in a position where it is accessible and can be visually inspected and fitted with a warning label
stating “Safety electrical connection. Do not remove.”; and
d) by a mechanically and electrically sound connection which is not subject to corrosion.
The main protective bonding conductor (main equipotential bonding connection) shall not be directly
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

connected to any pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tube or pliable connectors from the outlet of the
primary meter installation.
COMMENTARY ON [Link]
The main protective bonding conductor on the gas pipework should be made using cable with minimum
cross‑sectional area of 10 mm2 cable with green and yellow insulation, construction reference 6491X
conforming to BS 6004.
For internal meters, for verification purposes the bonding connection should be within 600 mm of the
meter outlet union.
For meters in outside meter boxes/compartments, the bonding connection should preferably be inside
the premises and within 600 mm of the point of entry of the pipework into the premises.
Alternatively, the connection can be made within the box/compartment, but it is essential that the
bonding cable does not interfere with the integrity of the box/compartment and the sealing of any sleeve
(see Figure 8).
For guidance on equipotential bonding in multi‑dwelling buildings see IGEM/GM/5 [26].
When relocating a meter, an existing main protective bond conductor might be satisfactory as found, or
it might need to be altered. Where the bonding conductor requires altering, any alterations should be
carried out by an electrically competent person, and inspected and tested in accordance with BS 7671.
The bonding connection may be considered satisfactory if the requirements of [Link] are met.
Further guidance on the connection to installations containing pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tube
can be obtained from the product manufacturer.

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Figure 8 — Position of main protective bonding conductor connection

Dimensions in millimetres
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a) Internal meter installation b) Meter installation in external box/ compartment

Key
1 Pipework 1 Bonding connection (non‑preferred position)
2 Bonding connection 2 Pipework sleeve (sealed)
3 Green‑yellow cable to consumer earth terminal 3 Pipework
4 Bonding connection (preferred position)

NOTE For medium-pressure fed meter installations the main protective bonding conductor should only exit the
box as detailed in BS 6400‑2 and BS 6400‑3.

[Link] When new pipework is installed, the installer of the pipework shall, where they are competent to do
so, carry out the installation of any necessary bonding at the time of the installation.
COMMENTARY ON [Link]
Regulation 18(2) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 [1] requires that any person
who connects any installation pipework to a primary meter, in any case where equipotential bonding
might be necessary, has to inform the responsible person for the premises that such bonding should be
carried out by a competent person.
A typical form of notification is a letter or card, an example of which is given in Figure 9.
On existing installations where a main protective bonding conductor might be necessary, the operative
should pass such notification to the responsible person.

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Figure 9 — Typical notification where main protective bonding conductor is found not to be present

MAIN PROTECTIVE BONDING CONDUCTOR

Most electrical installations are required to be fitted with a main protective bonding conductor, which
consists of the electrical connection of the internal gas and water pipes to the installation’s main earthing
terminal in accordance with the requirements of BS 7671, Requirements for electrical installations (IET
Wiring Regulations).

The gas installation pipework fitted in your premises does not appear to have the necessary main
protective bonding conductor.

I am required by The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 to tell you that any necessary
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

main protective equipotential bonding should be carried out by a competent person.

I advise you to have this checked by a competent electrical operative.

If you are the tenant of this property, please bring this matter to the attention of the owner or their agent
as soon as possible.

8.4.4 Electro‑osmotic damp‑proofing

Where electro‑osmotic damp‑proofing has been installed in a property, all metallic gas pipework shall
be located above ground floor level.
COMMENTARY ON 8.4.4
This type of damp‑proofing system is designed to be installed in older properties built without a
proprietary damp‑proofing membrane. It consists of a titanium wire running around the base of the
walls, with platinized electrodes embedded in the walls at intervals and a copper earth rod buried near
the centre of the building. A small positive voltage applied to the titanium wire is claimed to interfere
with the natural potential in the walls, thereby altering the mechanics of water flow.
Perforation of metallic pipework can occur whenever it is in contact with the fabric of the building
below the level of the titanium wire, i.e. where a conductive path was provided between the two
materials by the moisture in the wall. The copper pipework might corrode preferentially because
titanium is the more “noble” (resists chemical action) material and because the induced voltage
increases the potential differences and could produce very rapid corrosion.

8.5 Valves
8.5.1 Additional emergency control valves (AECV)
[Link] An additional emergency control valve (AECV) shall be fitted where the emergency control valve
(ECV) is located remotely from the dwelling/building it serves (see Figure 10).

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Figure 10 — AECV positions

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a) External meter to single dwelling

b) External meters on multi-occupancy dwelling c) External meter on multi-occupancy dwelling

Key
1 Test point A Appliance
2 AECV M Meter

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Figure 10 (continued)
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d) Internal meters on multi-occupancy dwelling

Key
1 Test point M Meter
2 AECV

[Link] Every AECV shall:

a) be located as near as practicable to the point of entry of the installation pipework into the
dwelling/building;

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b) be labelled or marked to show its open and closed position;

c) be fitted in a readily accessible position;
NOTE An appropriate height for an AECV is between 450 mm and 1 450 mm above floor height.

d) be easy to operate;
e) be securely fitted with a suitable handle or other permanent means of operation; and
f) where the lever moves in the vertical plane, move to the “off” position in a downward direction.
[Link] A permanent notice shall be attached to the valve giving the following information:
a) advice that the valve is an “emergency control for gas consumers’ use”;
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b) details of the parts of the installation isolated by the valve;

c) the telephone number of the National Gas Emergency Call Service or the LPG supplier
Emergency Service, as appropriate; and
d) advice to the gas consumer on actions to be taken if they think they can smell gas.

8.5.2 External pipework isolation valves

Where the pipework is taken from inside a building to supply an appliance situated externally
(see Figure 11), a valve shall be installed in an accessible position where the pipework leaves
the building.
NOTE It is preferable that the valve be fitted externally. Appliances such as patio heaters and barbecues are
fitted externally.

Figure 11 — Typical exterior pipework

Key
1 Gas supply to external location 5 Pipe sleeve
2 House wall 6 External pipework isolation valve
3 Leisure point 7 Pipework
4 Barbecue

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8.6 Pressure test points

8.6.1 A pressure test point shall be fitted for the purpose of gas tightness testing. Where there is no meter
installed that includes a test point, a test point shall be fitted not more than 300 mm downstream of
the ECV or any AECV.
NOTE Careful consideration should be given to the positioning of the test point to allow for ease of
tightness testing.

 8.6.2 When an appliance is connected and a suitable means of confirming the pressure required by its
instructions is not available, a test point shall be fitted in the pipework at the point of connection.
NOTE This 'suitable means of confirming the pressure required' may be incorporated in the appliance.
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8.7 Sleeves
8.7.1 Pipework passing through a wall or a floor, whether or not it contains a cavity, shall pass
through a sleeve.
8.7.2 All sleeves shall be of a material:
a) resistant to corrosion;
b) impermeable to gas, e.g. copper, steel, PE or polyvinyl chloride (PVC); and
c) capable of protecting the pipework against failure caused by movement of the structure.
8.7.3 No sleeve shall have joints along its length.
COMMENTARY ON 8.7.1, 8.7.2 AND 8.7.3
Factory-applied coatings or covers on pipe do not fulfill the purpose of a sleeve as defined in 3.38.
Consideration should be given to the selection of the material for a sleeve to ensure that it has
no detrimental effect on the pipework installation, such as electrolytic corrosion caused by
dissimilar metals.
8.7.4 Any sleeve shall pass through the full width of the wall or the full thickness of the floor. The outside
of the sleeve shall be secured and sealed at each end to the structure of the building with a suitable
building material, e.g. cement mortar or flexible sealant.
8.7.5 Any sleeve shall not impair the structural stability, fire resistance, or thermal and sound insulation of
a building. The annular space between the pipework and the sleeve shall be sealed at one end to the
pipework with a flexible fire‑resistant compound. Where a sleeve passes through an exterior wall,
the sealing of the annular space between the pipework and the sleeve shall be on the inside of the
wall. However, for a sleeve that forms part of a low‑pressure fed meter installation sited in a meter
housing, the seal shall be inside the housing.
NOTE The internal diameter of any sleeve should allow for an annular space around the pipework to enable
satisfactory insertion and withdrawal of the pipework and allow adequate sealing between the pipework
and the sleeve.

8.7.6 Screwed, quick-release and mechanical joints and press end connections shall not be located on the
pipework within a sleeve.

8.8 Pipework support

8.8.1 All pipework shall be adequately supported in accordance with specific manufacturers’ instructions
or, in the absence of such instructions, with Table 4.
8.8.2 All pipework supports shall be suitable for the environment in which they are installed and shall be
designed to remain stable for the lifetime of the installation, e.g. for external use corrosion resistant
or UV-stabilized plastic.

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8.8.3 Where pipework is installed in protected areas (see 8.19 and Annex D), all supports shall be fire-
resistant, e.g. of metallic construction.
8.8.4 The supports used shall be designed to prevent the pipework coming into contact with surfaces of the
structure which are likely to cause corrosion.
NOTE Timber is a notable example of a material with which contact is unlikely to cause corrosion. Other
acceptable types of support include those made from metal (see BS 1494‑1) and plastic materials.

Table 4 — Maximum interval between pipework supports

Material Nominal size Interval for vertical run Interval for horizontal run
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m m
Steel (rigid) Up to DN 15 (R½) 2.5 2.0

DN 20 (R¾) 3.0 2.5

DN 25 (R1) 3.0 2.5

DN 32 (R1¼) 3.3 2.7

Copper Up to 15 mm 2.0 1.5

22 mm 2.5 2.0

28 mm 2.5 2.0

35 mm 2.5 2.5
Pliable DN 15 1.2 1.2
corrugated
DN 20/22 1.8 1.8
(stainless-
steel) DN 25/28 1.8 1.8

DN 32 2.5 2.5

8.9 Pipework laid in joisted floors and roof spaces (including compartment floors)
8.9.1 Where pipework is to be installed in joisted floors and roof spaces it shall run either in the direction
of the joists or at 90° to the joist direction. Diagonal runs of pipework shall not be installed.
8.9.2 Where pipework is installed parallel to or at 90° to joists in floors, intermediate floors or roof spaces,
it shall be supported in accordance with Table 4.
8.9.3 The flanges of timber-engineered joists and metal web joists shall not be notched, drilled, altered or
damaged (see Figure 12).
8.9.4 Where pipework is installed at 90° to timber-engineered joists with I‑beam construction, the
pipework shall be installed through the web of joists in accordance with the joist manufacturer’s
guidance (see Figure 12).
Where pipework is installed at 90° to laminated timber joists with a rectangular cross section, the
pipework shall be installed in accordance with the joist manufacturer’s guidance.
8.9.5 Where pipework is installed at 90° to metal web joists with timber flanges, the pipework shall pass
between the metal webs with pipework supported on the wooden flanges and not in contact with the
metal structure of the joist (see Figure 12).
Where pipework is installed at 90° to metal web joists with metal flanges, the pipework shall pass
between the metal webs with pipework supported in such a manner that it is not in direct contact
with the metal of the joist structure.
NOTE Additional guidance might be available from the joist manufacturer.

8.9.6 Where pipework is laid across solid timber joists fitted with flooring, the pipework shall be located in
purpose-made notches or circular holes. Notches and holes shall conform to Figure 13.

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8.9.7 Solid timber joists with a depth less than 100 mm or greater than 250 mm shall not be notched,
unless this has been confirmed as acceptable by a structural engineer.
8.9.8 Where pipework is installed within roof spaces, roof rafters, purlins, trussed rafters, bracing, etc.,
shall only be notched, drilled or cut away with the approval of a structural engineer.
8.9.9 Where pipework is installed in a void under a floor, unless there is sufficient adventitious ventilation
available, ventilation shall be provided in accordance with 8.16.1, Table 6. For LPG and LPG/air
mixtures this ventilation shall be at the lowest point. Alternatively, the gas pipework shall be
contained within a vented duct where it passes through the void.
NOTE Additional guidance on LPG gas installations under the floor of a residential park home or dwelling
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manufactured to BS 3632 is given in HSE report RR945 [27].

Figure 12 — Notching and drilling of metal web joists and timber-engineered joists

a) Restrictions on notching and drilling metal web joists

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Figure 12 (continued)
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

b) Restrictions on notching and drilling timber-engineered joists

Figure 13 — Limits for notching and drilling of solid timber floor joists
Dimensions in millimetres

a) Limits for notching top of joist where drilling and notching occur

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Figure 13 (continued)
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b) Alternative limits for notching top of joist where drilling and notching occur

c) Limits for drilling of joists where drilling and notching occur

Key
1 Min. 100 mm between notch and hole 2 Holes not closer than 3 × diameter
NOTE 1 The notching can occur at both ends, either on top or bottom, without a design check.

d) Limits for notching bottom of joist where drilling and notching occur
Key
1 Positions within which notching can occur on 2 Clear span simply supported joist (not a
the bottom without a design check. Minimum trimmer, trimming joist or beam)
100 mm between the notch and any holes [see
Figure 13a)].

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Figure 13 (continued)

NOTE 2 The notching can occur at both ends, either on top or bottom, without a design check.
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NOTE 3 The notching can occur at both ends on the bottom without a design check.
e) Alternative limits for notching: bottom of joist where drilling and notching occur

f) Alternative drilling zone where no notching occurs

Key
1 Drilling zone where no notching occurs
2 Holes not closer than 3 × diameter of largest hole and a maximum of 8 × 30 mm holes can be
accommodated within each drilling zone. No notching is permitted.

8.9.10 Where pipework is installed within intermediate joisted floors, unless there is sufficient adventitious
ventilation available, ventilation shall be provided in accordance with 8.16.1, Table 6. For LPG and
LPG/air mixtures this ventilation shall be at the lowest point.
COMMENTARY ON 8.9.10
General
Prior to running pipework below floors, a visual inspection should be carried out to note the position of
any electrical cables, junction boxes and ancillary equipment, in order that accidental damage or injury
does not occur when inserting pipework.
Where it is necessary during installation or retrofitting to remove a section of floor boarding or decking,
the section should be reinstated to the same standard as that before removal. Any cut edge of a floor
decking should be supported by noggings fixed between the joists.
Care should be taken when fixing flooring or ceilings to prevent damage to the pipework by nails or
screws. Where possible, the flooring should be appropriately marked to warn others. Where possible, the
design should remove the need for notching solid timber joists.
Natural gas
For natural gas, research undertaken by Advantica [28] (see Annex C) on behalf of the Gas Industry
Safety Group (GISG) has proved that, where gas pipework is installed in intermediate floors in dwellings,
there is sufficient adventitious ventilation of the floor construction to safely disperse any minor leakage

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of gas, i.e. natural ventilation via cracks/openings in the structure is sufficient to ensure any minor
escapes of gas do not present a danger.
Therefore, there is no requirement to install purpose‑provided ventilation to floors of this construction
in conventional masonry, timber frame or light steel frame buildings. A summary of the research project
and its principal conclusions can be found in Annex C. The results and conclusions of this report should
not be applied to compartment floors between dwellings, for example in the floors which separate
one flat or apartment from another. The results and conclusions of this report apply to natural gas
installations only and should not, therefore, be applied to installations supplied with LPG or LPG/air
gas mixtures.
8.9.11
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Pipework shall not be installed within any fire compartment floor that separates one dwelling from
another part of the building, except as shown in Figure 14 and Figure 15.
8.9.12 Roof spaces utilizing vapour permeable underlay without specific ventilation, such as soffit
board vents, shall be treated as unventilated voids for the purpose of gas pipework and appliance
installations. Where it is necessary to install pipework in such locations, additional ventilation shall
be applied having at least two ventilators per space, each with a free area of at least 50 cm2. For LPG
and LPG/Air mixtures, this shall be at low level; for natural gas this shall be at high level.
8.9.13 Pipework shall not be laid below or within roof space insulation material.

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Figure 14 — Pipework in concrete compartment floors

Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

a) Typical concrete compartment floor with suspended ceiling and topping of timber decking on battens

b) Alternative screed topping c) Alternative timber floating floor topping (No

pipework to be installed in this type of floor topping)
Key
1 Pipework within vented ducting extended above floor level and sealed to floor deck with flexible
sealant
2 Floor decking on battens on resilient bearers/pads
3 Ducted pipework can be above or below any resilient quilt laid between floor battens with no fixings
used to secure the ducting penetrating or damaging the quilt
4 Structural floor slab
5 Pipework within vented ducting located within suspended ceiling void and sealed to ceiling board
6 Suspended ceiling
7 Pipework with factory-finished protection laid in screed above resilient overlayA)
8 Screed
9 Resilient sound‑proofing overlay
10 Structural floor slab
11 Floating floor
A)
Exposed metallic pipework, for example at joints, shall be further protected on site (see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12).

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Figure 15 — Pipework in timber fire compartment floors

Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

a) Typical suspended timber compartment floor

b) Typical suspended timber compartment floor incorporating resilient quilt

Key
1 Floor decking on battens on resilient bearers/pads
2 Pipework within vented ducting extended above floor level and sealed to floor deck with flexible
sealant
3 Structural deck
4 Timber joist
5 No pipework in this void
6 Ceiling fixed to resilient bars
7 Ducted pipework can be above or below any resilient quilt laid between floor battens with no fixings
used to secure the ducting penetrating or damaging the quilt
8 Floor deck

8.10 Pipework installed in solid floors

8.10.1 Where pipework is to be installed in solid floors it shall run parallel or at 90° to the walls.
8.10.2 Pipework shall not be buried in structural elements of the floor, such as concrete slabs or structural
toppings. Pipework shall not be buried in power‑floated floors that form part of the structure.

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8.10.3 Pipework in acoustic floors shall only be installed with the agreement of the building designer.
8.10.4 Rigid stainless-steel pipework shall not be buried in floor screeds.
8.10.5 Pipework that is to be buried in a solid floor shall be suitably protected against corrosion and
degradation (see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12). Galvanized or painted pipework shall not be buried without
additional onsite protection being applied (see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12).
8.10.6 Pipework installed in solid floors shall be protected against failure caused by movement.
COMMENTARY ON 8.10.6
Pipework installed in solid floors should, where practical, be in one length without any joints. Where
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

necessary, the use of fittings should be kept to a minimum and, where aesthetically and practicably
acceptable, bends should be used in preference to elbows.
Suitable methods of protection are as follows:
a) pipework laid on top of concrete slabs/precast flooring and subsequently covered by a floor screed
(see also 8.1.7 to 8.1.12);
b) steel or copper pipework installed into preformed ducts with protective covers; and
c) steel or copper pipework fitted with additional soft, non‑permeable covering material. The
coverings should be soft and thick enough to provide movement, yet resilient enough to support the
floor screed while it is setting. The covering should be at least 5 mm thick and resistant to concrete
ingress which would negate its ability to allow movement.
Reference should also be made to 8.1.7 to 8.1.12 for the application of adequate corrosion protection.
8.10.7 Where pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tube is to be buried in floor screed, it shall be:
a) directly buried pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tube which:
1) conforms to 6.2.3;
2) the manufacturer’s instructions specifically allow direct burial;
3) is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; and
4) has a factory-applied cover with a minimum thickness of 0.5 mm, manufactured from a non-
chlorinated material of a synthetic polymer or elastomer with a total chloride content not
exceeding 50 ppm; or
b) laid inside a buried outer pipe conforming to 8.7.1 or a covered channel which terminates either
above floor level or with suitable inspection points which permit periodic inspection.
NOTE Users of this British Standard are advised to consider the desirability of selecting products for which
independent quality assurance certification against the appropriate product manufacture standard has
been obtained.

8.10.8 Where pipework is to be buried in magnesium-oxy-chloride cement or magnesite flooring, it shall be:
a) directly buried pre-insulated copper tube with solid covering conforming to BS EN 13349; or
b) directly buried pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tube which:
1) conforms to 6.2.3;
2) the manufacturer’s instructions specifically allow direct burial;
3) is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; and
4) has a factory-applied cover with a minimum thickness of 0.5 mm, manufactured from a non-
chlorinated material of a synthetic polymer or elastomer with a total chloride content not
exceeding 50 ppm; or

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c) laid inside a buried outer pipe conforming to 8.7.1 or a covered channel which terminates either
above floor level or with suitable inspection points which permit periodic inspection.
NOTE Users of this British Standard are advised to consider the desirability of selecting products for which
independent quality assurance certification against the appropriate product manufacture standard has
been obtained.

8.10.9 All buried pipework shall be inspected for damage immediately prior to the tube being buried in the
flooring material. Any damage shall be repaired in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to
give at least the same level of protection that was afforded before the damage.
NOTE The inspection should take account of any factory-finished protection or protection applied on site.
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8.10.10 Where pipework is installed in solid floors, joints shall be kept to a minimum. Mechanical fittings and
press end connections shall not be buried in solid floors, floor screeds or a concrete slab.
8.10.11 Pipework passing vertically through solid floors shall take the shortest practicable route and shall be
sleeved (see 8.7).
8.10.12 Where pipework is buried in a floor screed there shall be a minimum of 25 mm of cover above
the pipework.
8.10.13 Pipework in solid floors shall be installed in accordance with Figure 16.
Figure 16 — Typical examples of pipework installed in solid floors
Dimensions in millimetres

a) Ground bearing concrete floors

Key
1 Pipework laid in preformed duct 5 Concrete slab
2 Pipework with factory-finished protection laid 6 Insulation
in screedA)
3 Pipework fitted with soft sleeving and laid in 7 Damp‑proof membrane
screed
4 Screed 8 Hardcore and sand blinding
A)
Exposed metallic pipework, for example at joints, shall be further protected on site (see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12).

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Dimensions in millimetres
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

b) Suspended concrete floor

1 Chipboard or floor screed over insulation 4 Precast beam and block
2 Insulation 5 Ventilated void
3 Damp‑proof membrane 6 Pipework (corrosion protected as necessary)
Dimensions in millimetres

c) Concrete rafts

1 Pipework laid in insulation layer (corrosion- 5 Damp‑proof membrane

protected as necessary)
2 Chipboard over insulation 6 Concrete raft
3 Screed over insulation 7 Pipework with factory-finished protection laid
in screedA)
4 Insulation
A)
Exposed metallic pipework, for example at joints, shall be further protected on site (see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12).

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8.11 Pipework installed in walls

8.11.1 General
[Link] Where pipework is to be installed into the building fabric of a wall it shall, where possible, be vertical
and shall be placed in ducts with convenient access points or placed in pipework chases.
[Link] Any pipework installed within the building fabric of a wall shall take the shortest practicable route,
horizontally or vertically. Diagonal runs of pipework shall not be installed.
[Link] Pipework in acoustic walls shall only be installed with the agreement of the building designer.
[Link] Pipework that is to be buried in walls shall be suitably protected against corrosion and degradation
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(see 8.1.7 to 8.12). Galvanized or painted pipework shall not be buried without additional onsite
protection being applied (see 8.1.7 to 8.12).
[Link] Pipework installed in walls shall be protected against failure caused by movement.
[Link] All pipework shall be inspected for damage immediately prior to the tube being encased in building
material. Any damage shall be repaired in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to give at
least the same level of protection that was afforded before the damage.
NOTE The inspection should take account of any factory finished protection or protection applied on site.

[Link] Where pipework is installed in walls, joints shall be kept to a minimum. Mechanical fittings and press
end connections shall not be installed in walls.
[Link] The pipework shall be secured.
NOTE Typical methods of installing pipework in walls are shown in Figure 17.

Where pipework is permitted to be installed in acoustic walls it might need to be installed in special
ducts to ensure no loss of acoustic performance.

8.11.2 Cavity walls

Pipework shall not be placed within the cavities of cavity walls. Pipework passing through a cavity
wall shall take the shortest practicable route from one side to the other and shall be sleeved (see 8.7).

8.11.3 Dry lined solid construction walls

[Link] Pipework installed behind dry lining shall be suitably encased by building material to avoid gas
tracking behind the plaster board.
[Link] Where thin wall metal pipework, for example copper and pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing,
is run between battens and within 50 mm of the decorative face of the plasterboard, it shall be
protected suitably against penetration, for example with a steel plate of thickness 1 mm.
NOTE Suitable methods include continuous adhesive dabs or timber studs, as shown in Figure 17b) and
Figure 17c).

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Figure 17 — Typical examples of pipework installed in solid construction walls

Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

a) Brick and block plastered

Key
1 Pipework set in chase 3 Pipework set into chase in plastered wall
2 Depth of chase Maximum depth of chase: T/6 horizontal; T/3 vertical

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Figure 17 (continued)
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b) Brick and block with dry lining on dabs

Key
1 Individual adhesive dabs
2 Continuous adhesive dabs to surround pipework
3 Pipework

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Figure 17 (continued)
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

NOTE The joints between the wall and studs should be sealed with mastic in order to avoid gas tracking
around the studs.
c) Brick and block dry lined on battens
Key
1 Timber battens
2 Pipework
3 Steel plate of min. 1 mm thickness

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8.11.4 Timber-frame and light steel-framed walls

[Link] Pipework installed within the walls of timber-frame and light steel-framed construction shall be run
within purpose‑designed channels [see Figure 18a)] or ducts.
[Link] Pipework shall be installed such that any fixing cannot penetrate the pipework, for example
plasterboard fixings, screws or shot‑fired nails which are typically up to 50 mm long. This can be
achieved by ensuring that the pipework is installed more than 50 mm from the front face of the
plasterboard.
If this cannot be achieved, where thin wall metal pipework, for example copper and pliable
corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing, is run within 50 mm of the decorative face of the plasterboard,
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it shall be protected suitably against penetration, for example with a steel plate of minimum
thickness 1 mm (see Figure 18).
[Link] If it is necessary to drill or notch the bottom plate of the wall frame and/or the sole plate, as little
timber as possible shall be removed, and not more than one third of the width of the bottom plate or
sole plate shall be removed.
[Link] Where pipework is installed within timber and light steel construction walls it shall be located in
purpose‑made holes conforming to Figure 19. Where holes are to be drilled to permit routing of gas
pipework, they shall be as small as possible but allow for movement. Timber-framed wall studs, rails
or noggings shall not be notched.
[Link] Where horizontal pipework runs are necessary, holes shall be drilled as near as possible to the centre
line of the timber member.
[Link] Any cut, notched or drilled surface of bottom plates or sole plates shall be treated with an appropriate
preservative to maintain the protection originally given to the timbers before construction.
[Link] Where it is unavoidable to have live electrical cable in the same channel as the gas pipework, the
cable shall be routed and clipped away from the pipework, maintaining the required minimum
separation distance (see 8.4.2). Any points of channel penetration shall be sealed with a flexible
fire‑resistant compound.
[Link] Where a gas supply point is to be positioned on a separating or compartment (party) wall, any
pipework shall rise in front of the finished plasterboard face.
NOTE Further guidance on the fire resistance for separating or compartment walls is given in the appropriate
standards or approved documents, for example Approved Document B in England [29].

[Link] Provision shall be made for pipework to accommodate any normal differential movement or
shrinkage of timber construction walls.
COMMENTARY ON 8.11.4
Typical methods of installing pipework in timber construction walls are shown in Figure 18.
This principle of applying penetration protection applies to an external or internal wall, but note that
pipework in an internal wall can be within 50 mm of both sides of the wall.
Additional guidance on differential movement or shrinkage in timber-framed buildings can be found in
IGEM/UP/7 [30].

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Figure 18a — Typical examples of pipework installed in timber and light steel-framed construction walls
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NOTE The joints between the studs should be sealed with mastic in order to avoid gas tracking around the studs.
a) Pipework passing through timber‑frame wall
Key
1 Timber stud 5 Pipework
2 Pipework 6 Plasterboard
3 Timber stud blocking piece 7 Steel plate of min. 1 mm thickness
4 Timber stud 8 Vapour barrier

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Figure 18b — Typical examples of pipework installed in timber and light steel-framed construction walls
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NOTE The joints between the studs should be sealed with mastic in order to avoid gas tracking
around the studs.
b) Pipework installed in a timber‑framed wall
Key
1 Timber stud
2 Pipework
3 Steel plate of min. 1 mm thickness

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Figure 18c — Typical examples of pipework installed in timber and light steel-framed construction walls
Dimensions in millimetres
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

NOTE Pipework to be located in a channel formed by timber studs of the same depth as the timber frame [the
principles for which are shown in Figure 18a) and b)]. Timber studs should be sealed with mastic.
c) Pipework entering a timber‑framed/light steel‑framed building from a meter box
Key
1 Insulation 10 Air space between back of box and breather membrane
2 Meter box wall
3 Plasterboard 11 Breather membrane carried down behind meter box
4 Rear spigot
5 Pipework (protected by a steel plate of 12 Floor screed
min. 1 mm thickness as necessary) 13 Pipework from meter notched through sole plate
6 Vapour control layer Preservative treatment to sole plate made good
7 Mastic sealing 14 Concrete
8 Timber sheathing 15 Service pipe or service pipework, as appropriate
9 Timber stud

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Figure 19 — Limits for drilling of wall studding

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Key
1 Allowable zones for drilling. Maximum diameter of hole = T × 0.25
2 Notching NOT acceptable in wall studding

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8.12 Above-ground external pipework

8.12.1 Above-ground external pipework shall be protected against the risk of mechanical damage,
e.g. in car ports.
NOTE Due to the inherent monetary value of metallic pipework, in particular copper, the risk associated with the
potential theft of the pipework needs to be considered when determining the route of the pipework.

8.12.2 Above-ground external pipework shall be protected against corrosion and degradation
(see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12).
NOTE Where copper pipework is exposed to external weather conditions, it does not normally require further
protection unless subjected to an additional corrosive source.
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8.13 Buried external pipework

8.13.1 Buried external pipework shall be inherently resistant to, or otherwise adequately protected against,
corrosion and degradation (see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12). Steel tubes conforming to 6.2.1 and 6.2.2 shall
not be buried.
8.13.2 When routing pipework, consideration shall be given to the soil type in which it is to be laid and its
likely corrosion impact over time.
8.13.3 Whatever material is chosen, the design shall make allowance for any additional loading or constraint
imposed by backfill or location.
8.13.4 Buried metallic pipework (other than proprietary systems intended for underground use) shall only
be installed when appropriate and where:
a) a risk assessment has been carried out; and
b) an inspection strategy has been developed and provided to the gas consumer.
8.13.5 Where metallic pipework is to be buried in the ground, it shall be:
a) directly buried pre‑insulated copper tube with solid covering conforming to BS EN 13349; or
b) directly buried pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tube which:
1) conforms to 6.2.3;
2) the manufacturer’s instructions specifically allow direct burial;
3) is installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions; and
4) has a factory-applied cover with a minimum thickness of 0.5 mm, manufactured from a non-
chlorinated material of a synthetic polymer or elastomer with a total chloride content not
exceeding 50 ppm; or
c) laid inside a buried outer pipe conforming to 8.7.1 or a covered channel which terminates either
above ground or in a suitable inspection pit, such as to prevent the accumulation of water in the
outer pipe or duct, while still enabling periodic inspection.
NOTE Users of this British Standard are advised to consider the desirability of selecting products for which
independent quality assurance certification against the appropriate product manufacture standard has
been obtained.

8.13.6 Exposed metallic pipe, for example at joints, shall be further protected on site (see 8.1.7 to 8.1.12).
8.13.7 All buried pipework shall be inspected for damage immediately prior to backfilling. Any damage
shall be repaired in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to give at least the same level of
protection that was afforded before the damage.
NOTE The inspection should take account of any factory-finished protection or protection applied on site.

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8.13.8 Joints shall be kept to the absolute minimum in buried sections of pipework.
8.13.9 Unless of a type specifically designed for direct burial, mechanical joints shall not be directly buried
below ground. Press end connections shall not be directly buried below ground.
8.13.10 Unless of a type specifically designed for direct burial, mechanical joints in underground pipework
shall be readily accessible for inspection, e.g. in an appropriate inspection chamber. Press end
connections shall not be installed in underground pipework.
8.13.11 Routes shall be chosen that minimize the length of pipework required and create minimal
disturbance of other underground services, e.g. existing pipework or cables.
8.13.12 Pipework shall have a minimum depth of cover as given in Table 5.
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Table 5 — Buried external pipework

Location of pipework Minimum depth of cover

mm
Private gardens including pathways (no vehicular traffic) 375
Private drives with light vehicular traffic 450A)
Private drives where there is a likelihood of heavy traffic (such as 600A)
LPG road tankers)
Fields and agricultural land 1 100
Other private ground 600A)
A)
Where, due to ground conditions, it is not possible to excavate a trench to give the specified depth of
cover, additional mechanical protection shall be provided above the pipe, such as burying concrete slabs
below ground level at approximately 100 mm above the pipework.

8.13.13 The trench shall be excavated to firm ground at least 75 mm below the required depth. The pipework
shall be laid on cohesive or granular materials that are free from sharp stones rocks, bricks or
concrete (see Figure 20).
8.13.14 If appropriate, topsoil or surface materials shall be kept separate from the excavated subsoil for
subsequent replacement.
8.13.15 The trench can be backfilled prior to tightness testing, but all joints and connections shall be left
exposed until a satisfactory test is completed.
8.13.16 The backfill shall be carried out progressively in layers from one end of the pipework installation and
carefully consolidated to provide firm lateral support between the pipework and the trench.
8.13.17 The backfill at the sides and immediately above the pipework shall be the same as that used for
the bedding. A minimum of 75 mm of cohesive or granular material shall be backfilled above
the pipework.

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Figure 20 — Buried pipework

Dimensions in millimetres
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Key
1 Minimum spade width (allow wider for 3 Gas marker tape 100 mm to 300 mm above pipe
branch connections) where necessary
2 Minimum depth of cover 4 Cohesive or granular materials (such as sand or other
fine material)

8.13.18 The use of wet clay shall be avoided immediately adjacent to the pipework. Fill such as hard chalk
shall not be used as backfill material.
8.13.19 Where cathodic protection is used, backfilling shall be carried out carefully to avoid strain being
placed on electrical connections and damage to wiring between cathodic protection anodes and
the pipework.
8.13.20 To facilitate future repair and maintenance, a minimum clearance of 250 mm shall be maintained
between pipework, foundations and the known position of other utilities (including electric cables,
etc.), unless this is not reasonably practicable (e.g. crossovers).
8.13.21 Pipework shall not be installed under the foundations of a building or in the ground under the base of
a wall or footings, unless adequate steps are taken to prevent damage to the pipework in the event of
the movement of those structures or the ground.
COMMENTARY ON 8.13
External buried pipework should, where practical, be in one length without any joints. Where necessary,
the use of fittings should be kept to a minimum and, where aesthetically and practicably acceptable,
bends should be used in preference to elbows.

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Reference should also be made to:

a) HSG47, Avoiding danger from underground services [31]; and
b) National Joint Utilities Group Guidelines On The Positioning of Utilities Apparatus For New
Development Sites [32].
Further information on pipework is given in UKLPG Code of Practice 22 [20] and IGEM/TD/4 [33].

8.14 Identification of buried external pipework

A yellow plastic indicator tape (marked “gas”) shall be laid between 100 mm and 300 mm above the
pipework, unless:
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a) the route of the pipework is adequately recorded or marked, or is obvious; or

b) other means are available for pipework location.
NOTE Where employed, it is preferential for the indicator tapes for polyethylene pipework to incorporate a
metallic core wire to permit the pipework route to be identified by a suitable instrument.

8.15 Additional requirements for the installation of polyethylene (PE) pipework

NOTE The requirements of this subclause are additional to those of 8.12, 8.13 and 8.14.

8.15.1 PE pipework and fittings shall only be used for external pipework.
8.15.2 PE pipework and fittings shall not be subjected to prolonged exposure to sunlight or other ultraviolet
(UV) sources.
8.15.3 PE pipework and fittings shall not be used above ground, except to rise vertically to allow the
transition to metallic pipework, which shall be as close as practicable to the external ground level.
8.15.4 PE pipework and fittings above ground level shall be shrouded from sunlight and other
ultraviolet (UV) sources and mechanical damage. Where PE pipework and fittings are installed above
ground, provision shall be made to protect the pipe from such sources, for example by enclosing
the pipe in a glass‑reinforced plastic sleeve, a steel sleeve or another sleeve manufactured from a
UV‑stabilized material.
8.15.5 Solvent welding shall not be used.
COMMENTARY ON 8.15
Additional information on the installation of PE pipework can be found in the Institution of Gas
Engineers and Managers publication IGEM/TD/4 [33].
The use of PE pipework and fittings could be beneficial where it is necessary for installation pipework to
be run underground externally from one location to another.
It is preferable to use metal gas pipework entries into buildings. The Gas Safety (Installation and Use)
Regulations [1] require that where PE pipework is used to enter the building, that part of it within the
building is placed within a metal sheath which is constructed and installed so as to prevent, as far as
practicable, gas escaping into the building if the pipework fails.
It is essential that care be taken to ensure that pipework designed for carrying water is not used for
gas installations. Also, plastics pipes designed to distribute water in both domestic hot/cold water and
central heating systems, whether or not they contain a metallic barrier, are not suitable for use for gas
installations.

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8.16 Pipework in ducts

8.16.1 Ventilation
[Link] Vertical and horizontal ducts containing pipework shall be ventilated to ensure that minor gas
leakage does not cause the atmosphere within the duct to become unsafe.
[Link] Any ventilation opening shall be located such that air movement can occur within the duct.
[Link] Any ventilation opening shall lead to a safe place, preferably to outside air.
[Link] Ducts shall be sealed from any cavity, wall or floor void through which they pass.
COMMENTARY ON 8.16.1
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The duct can run freely through a number of storeys or take the form of an enclosure at each storey
level. Where ducts are continuous, ventilation can normally be achieved by the provision of openings
sized in accordance with Table 6 [see Figure 22a)].
A duct, or an isolated section of duct contained solely within a room or space, can be ventilated within
that room or space, provided the room or space is ventilated to normal occupational standards.
Table 6 — Free area of ventilation openings

Cross‑sectional area Minimum free area of each openingA)

m 2
m2
Not exceeding 0.01 0
0.01 and not exceeding 0.05 Cross‑sectional area
0.05 and not exceeding 7.5 0.05
Exceeding 7.5 1/150 of the cross‑sectional area
A)
For vertical shafts and ducts the required openings should be provided at both high
and low level. For horizontal ducts and ceiling voids the required openings should be
provided at either end.

Additional information is given in BS 8313.

Ducts having a small cross‑sectional area and volume (i.e. 0.01 m2 or less with a total volume of less
than 0.1 m3) are considered to be adequately ventilated by adventitious means and no additional
openings are required.
The level of ventilation is not intended to clear a major gas escape arising from damage or failure of
gas pipework
Cross‑sectional area is as indicated in Figure 21.

8.16.2 Fire resistance

The fire resistance of any duct containing pipework shall have a fire rating equal to or greater than
any void through which it passes.
NOTE See Approved Document B to the Building Regulations [29] for further guidance.

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Figure 21 — Cross‑sectional area of duct

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NOTE Cross‑sectional area of duct is measured perpendicular to its longest length:

0.075 m × 0.195 m = 0.0146 m2

8.17 Multi‑occupancy buildings

Where pipework passes through an individual dwelling/commercial unit other than the one it
supplies, it shall be located in a purpose‑provided duct designed and constructed to prevent damage
to the pipework [see Figure 22b)].
NOTE The Building Regulations [5], [6] and [7] also contain provisions for the design and construction
of such ducts.

8.18 Fire stopping

For buildings containing flats and/or maisonettes, pipework shall be fire‑stopped as it passes
from one floor to another, unless it is installed in its own protected shaft that is ventilated top and
bottom to outside air. When pipework from a protected shaft enters a flat or maisonette, it shall be
fire‑stopped at the point of entry [see Figure 22a)].
COMMENTARY ON 8.18
When pipework passes through the protecting structure (i.e. compartment walls or floors) all openings
should be kept as small, and as few in number, as practicable, and should be suitably fire‑stopped in such
a manner as to allow thermal movement of the pipework and ensure the fire resistance is not impaired.
To prevent displacement, materials used for fire stopping should be supported by, or reinforced with,
materials of limited combustibility. Any proprietary fire stopping should, when tested in accordance with
the applicable part of BS 476, achieve the relevant periods of fire resistance for the structure in respect
of load bearing capacity, integrity and insulation.

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Figure 22 — Typical pipework in multi‑storey buildings containing flats or maisonettes

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a) Ventilated duct
Key
1 Ventilation 6 Flat 1 ECV Emergency control valve
2 Appliance 7 Meter room AECV Additional emergency control valve

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Figure 22 (continued)

3 Fire stop 8 Meter room ventilation IIV Inlet isolation valve

4 Flat 3 9 Ground level M Gas meter
5 Flat 2 10 Gas service TP Test point
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b) Fire stopped pipework and ventilated enclosed area

Key
1 Appliance 6 Meter room 11 Enclosure
2 Fire stop 7 Meter room ventilation ECV Emergency control valve

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Figure 22 (continued)

3 Flat 3 8 Ground level AECV Additional emergency control valve

4 Flat 2 9 Gas service IIV Inlet isolation valve
5 Flat 1 10 Vent M Gas meter
TP Test point
NOTE Vents are to communicate with an area that is ventilated in accordance with the Building
Regulations [5], [6], [7].

8.19 Gas pipework inside a protected area (see Annex D)

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8.19.1 In addition to the requirements for fire resistance (see 8.16.2) and fire stopping (see 8.18) any
pipework carrying gas installed in, or passing through, a protected area shall be:
a) steel pipework with screwed joints;
b) steel pipework with welded joints;
c) continuous length of copper (no joints); or
d) continuous length of pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing manufactured to withstand fire
test A of BS EN 1775:2007, Annex A.
NOTE See Figure 23. Pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing manufactured to BS 7838 meets fire test A. For
pliable corrugated tubing manufactured to BS EN 15266 the manufacturer should be consulted.

Figure 23 — Copper and steel pipe in a protected area

Key
1 Vent direct to outside air (see 8.19.2).

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Figure 23 (continued)

2 Pipe not conforming to 8.19.1, e.g. jointed copper gas installation pipe, within its own fire‑rated duct
which is ventilated in accordance with 8.19.
3 Pipe conforming to 8.19.1, e.g. steel pipe with screwed joints.

8.19.2 Other than the exceptions described in 8.19.3 to 8.19.5, a protected area containing pipework
shall be ventilated at high and low levels direct to the outside air. Sizes of ventilation openings shall
be in accordance with Table 6. Mechanical ventilation shall not be used to achieve the required
ventilation levels.
COMMENTARY ON 8.19.1 AND 8.19.2
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Pipework is not considered to be contained within a protected area if the pipework is completely
separated from that protected area by fire‑resisting duct, which itself is ventilated direct to outside air,
e.g. a service shaft.
Ventilation grilles (including intumescent grilles) are not to be provided in fire doors or partitions
dividing one protected area from another, such as between a corridor/lobby and stairway, as this could
lead to smoke leakage into the escape stairway in the event of a fire.
The fire/acoustic performance of a suspended ceiling should be confirmed with the building designer or
the local building control body.
Further guidance on protected areas is given in the appropriate Building Regulations [5], [6], [7] and
other applicable building standards.
Subclauses 8.19.1 and 8.19.2 do not normally apply to one or two storey domestic dwellings.
8.19.3 Pipework within a protected corridor/lobby, including any suspended ceiling void above the
protected area, can be contained within a duct which is vented to outside air either directly or
indirectly via another ventilated area. Any ducting shall be of fire-resisting construction to the level
of the fire resistance of the protected area it passes through or of an alternative material with fire
stopping where the duct passes through the compartment walls/floors.
8.19.4 Pipework that is continuous or welded and meets the requirements of 8.19.1b), c) or d) can be
installed within a protected corridor/lobby which is not ventilated direct to outside air, provided the
protected corridor/lobby is normally occupied. If the pipework is installed above a suspended ceiling,
which does not form part of the required fire/acoustic performance of the compartment floor, the
ceiling void can be vented into the normally occupied protected corridor/lobby via vents inserted
through the ceiling. These vents shall be sized and installed in accordance with 8.16.1 and Table 6.
NOTE The term “normally occupied” means an area in which it is reasonably expected that passers-by will be in
the vicinity, e.g. regularly used common corridors or common lobbies.

8.19.5 Pipework conforming to 8.19.1a) installed above a suspended ceiling which does not form part of
the required fire/acoustic performance of the compartment floor can be vented into the corridor
via vents inserted through the ceiling, provided the corridor is ventilated direct to outside air. These
vents shall be sized and installed in accordance with 8.16.1 and Table 6.
8.19.6 If the gas pipework is within a duct and any inspection hatch or door opens from that duct into a
protected area, that hatch or door shall be of at least the same fire rating as the protected area in
which it is fitted and suitably sealed on all edges to contain any gas escape within the duct.
NOTE The seals to be used should enable the hatch or door to be opened without compromising the integrity of
the seal when the hatch or door is closed.

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8.20 Additional requirements for pipework inside timber‑framed and light

steel‑framed buildings
8.20.1 If the pipework is being run within the inner leaf of an external timber‑framed or light steel‑framed
wall, the pipework shall be installed in accordance with 8.11.4 and routed as close as possible to the
plasterboard side and in a channel within the timber frame, i.e. on the warm side of the insulation.
8.20.2 Where installing pipework through a vapour control layer (VCL), any hole cut in the VCL shall be as
small as possible to accommodate the pipework/sleeve. Where the VCL is a polythene membrane, the
hole in the VCL shall be 10 mm smaller than the pipework/sleeve so that it makes a tight interference
fit around. Any perforations of the VCL shall be made good with an adhesive tape.
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8.20.3 The plasterboard shall be made good with plaster or flexible fire‑resistant compound so that there is
no route for air movement into the inner leaf framework.
8.20.4 When forming channels in previously constructed walls the channel shall be re‑instated so that the
insulation, VCL and plasterboard are to the same standard as the rest of the wall.
8.20.5 Provision shall be made for pipework to accommodate any normal differential movement or
shrinkage of the building, with special attention being given to buildings of multi‑storey construction.
COMMENTARY ON 8.20
Additional guidance on differential movement or shrinkage in timber-framed and light steel-framed
buildings can be found in IGEM/UP/7 [30] and IGEM/G/5 [34].
A suitable method of accommodating movement for gas pipework passing through a masonry wall is
given in Figure 24.

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Figure 24 — Typical method of accommodating movement for pipework passing through a masonry/timber-frame
wall
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a) As installed: before movement of timber

b) After relative movement of timber

Key
1 Timber frame
2 Masonry external wall or wall of internal riser duct
3 Sealant between sleeve and wall
4 Flexible pipe sleeving
5 Flexible sealant on one end of sleeve only, preferably external side to prevent water ingress
6 Rigid pipe
7 Transition fitting from rigid pipework to pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing
8 Pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing
9 Bend not to exceed manufacturer’s recommendation

9 Installation of flexible hoses, tubing, assemblies and their connections

COMMENTARY ON CLAUSE 9
This clause does not cover the requirements for hoses, tubing, assemblies and their connections that
are used as the final connections to moveable gas appliances. These are covered by the appropriate
appliance installation standards.

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9.1 General
9.1.1 Flexible hoses, tubing and associated assemblies shall only be used for:
a) LPG cylinder-mounted regulator connections – the connection between a cylinder‑mounted
regulator and the fixed pipework installation; and
b) residential park home and caravan holiday home connections – the connection between an ECV,
AECV, meter or a regulator/changeover device sited remotely from a residential park home or
caravan holiday home on a standpipe/upstand and the fixed pipework installation.
NOTE For details on the requirements for the installation of high-pressure hoses, tubing, assemblies and their
connections between a cylinder vapour valve and a regulator/changeover device, see BS 5482‑1, BS 5482‑2 or
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UKLPG Code of Practice 24 [35]. For details on the requirements for the installation of standpipe/upstands,
see IGEM/G/6 [36].

9.1.2 Where a flexible pipework connection is used it shall be of one continuous length and be as short as
practicable to provide the flexibility for which it is to be utilized. The length of the flexible pipework
connection shall be sufficient to prevent excessive strain on it or its end connections and to allow
smooth swept bends without kinking (see 9.2 and 9.3).
9.1.3 Where necessary, flexible pipework connections shall be supported.
9.1.4 Flexible pipework connections shall not be used if, when inspected, they show any signs of any
physical damage, environmental deterioration or service failure.
NOTE Examples include:

•      physical damage, such as cuts or abrasion, cracking, stretching, flattening, kinking and, where fitted, missing/
worn sealing washers, damaged cylinder connections;

•      environmental deterioration, such as stiffening, cracking, delamination of outer covering, chemical

degradation, i.e. softening of outer coating by contact with oil; and

•      service failure, such as blistering, soft spots, rupture and, for preassembled end fittings, corrosion or loosening
of swaged fittings attaching hose.

9.1.5 Where flexible pipework connections are used, electrical continuity shall be maintained
where applicable.
9.1.6 Flexible pipework connections shall not be used where they could be subjected to temperatures in
excess of 50 °C, unless specifically designed for that application.
9.1.7 Flexible pipework connections shall not pass through walls, floors, ceilings or other partitions.
9.1.8 Flexible hoses, tubing and their associated assemblies conforming to BS 3212, BS EN 1763‑1 or
BS EN 16436‑1 shall be marked in accordance with the appropriate standard.
NOTE Examples of typical marking on hoses and tubing manufactured to these standards is illustrated
in Figure 25.

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Figure 25 — Identification of hoses, tubing and assemblies for use with LPG
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a) Typical BS 3212 hose type identification

b) Typical BS EN 16436‑1, Class 1 tube type identification

9.1.9 Flexible tubing conforming to BS EN 16436‑1 shall not be used after the declared expiry date.
COMMENTARY ON 9.1.9
Whilst no expiry date, specific service life or exchange interval is specified for flexible hoses, tubing and
associated assemblies in BS 3212 or BS EN 1763‑1 , it is unlikely that the service life would exceed 10
years and therefore replacement at this age is recommended. For hoses conforming to BS EN 16436‑1
(class 2 and 3) no expiry date, specific service life or exchange interval is currently specified and it
is unlikely that the service life would exceed 10 years, so replacement at this age is recommended.
Requirements relating to expiry date for these class 2 and 3 hoses will be given in BS EN 16436‑2 (when
published).
9.1.10 Flexible hose or tubing shall only be connected to an appropriate and suitably-sized fitting or nozzle.
NOTE Traditional nozzles used on LPG installations, such as the “Fulham Nozzle”, are known to have
high‑pressure losses across them, and these pressure losses along with the internal diameter of any flexible hose or
tube need to be considered in the design process specified in Clause 5.

9.1.11 Flexible hose or tubing with an internal diameter of 8 mm or greater and operated at a pressure of up
to, but not exceeding, 50 mbar shall be secured using either crimp clips or swaged fittings or worm
drive clips. Only crimp clips of the correct size for the hose or tubing shall be used. Worm drive clips
shall secure hose or tubing but shall not be over-tightened.
9.1.12 Flexible hose or tubing with an internal diameter of less than 8 mm and hose operated at a pressure
exceeding 50 mbar shall always be secured by crimp clips or swaged fittings. Worm drive clips shall
not be used.

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9.2 LPG cylinder-mounted regulator connections

For installations other than those specified in 9.3, the length of the flexible pipework connection
between the cylinder regulator and the fixed pipework shall be limited to a maximum
length of 500 mm.

9.3 Residential park home and caravan holiday home connections

9.3.1 The flexible pipework connection between the standpipe/upstand-mounted ECV, AECV, meter
or regulator/changeover device and the fixed pipework installation shall only be made once the
residential park home or caravan holiday home has been fully sited.
9.3.2
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Movement of the residential park home or caravan holiday home due to settlement, thermal
expansion, structural flexing or wind loading, and its potential effects on the gas pipework and
attached equipment, shall be accommodated by installing an appropriate flexible pipework
connection with a minimum length 300 mm between any standpipe/upstand installation and the
fixed pipework installation. The length of the flexible pipework connection shall be limited to the
minimum possible exceeding 300 mm, with a maximum length that shall not exceed 2 m (see the
exception in 9.3.5).
NOTE Usually, a caravan holiday home or residential park home is designed to be stable, with limited vertical
movement with respect to the ground.

Any standpipe/upstand is required to be sited as close as practicable to, and not further than 1 m from, the
residential park home and caravan holiday home it serves. See IGEM/G/6 [36].

9.3.3 Flexible pipework connections shall not be used with the intention to increase the distance of a
residential park home or caravan holiday home from its connection to a standpipe/upstand-mounted
ECV, AECV, meter or regulator/changeover device.
9.3.4 Where flexible hoses, tubing and associated assemblies conforming to BS 3212, BS EN 1763‑1 or
BS EN 16436‑1 are used, they shall be armoured against rodent attack.
9.3.5 Where a flotation device is fitted to a residential park home or caravan holiday home so that a longer
flexible pipework connection might be required, the length of flexible pipework connection shall be
sufficient to accommodate the movement of the home permitted by the flotation device.
9.3.6 Where the residential park home or caravan holiday home is not sufficiently anchored, any
uncontrolled release of gas caused by movement or overturning through high winds or flooding shall
be limited by including a quick release, self‑sealing coupling with an integral anchored release sleeve.
NOTE The length of pipework and number of fittings between any quick release coupling and the flexible
connection should be minimized. IGEM/UP/2 [12] contains the detail of an acceptable coupling for this purpose.

10 Commissioning
10.1 General
Where the appliance input is range or variable‑rated, the installer shall permanently mark on the
appliance the actual heat input at which the appliance is to be set.

10.2 Gas tightness testing and purging

Upon completion, the installation shall be tested for gas tightness and purged in accordance with the
appropriate standard.
NOTE For the majority of installations the appropriate standard is IGEM/UP/1B [23], but alternatively IGEM/
UP/1 [21] or IGEM/UP/1A [22], as appropriate, can be utilized.

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10.3 Meter, regulator and safety devices

10.3.1 Natural gas meter installations shall be installed and commissioned in accordance with BS 6400‑1
and BS 6400‑2, IGEM/GM/6 [10] or IGE/GM/8 [11], as appropriate.
10.3.2 LPG meter installations shall be installed and commissioned in accordance with BS 6400‑3.
10.3.3 On LPG installations that do not incorporate a meter immediately downstream of the regulator,
the regulator shall be installed in accordance with Annex E and commissioned in accordance
with a) and b).
NOTE 1 Many LPG regulators and associated safety devices are factory-preset to deliver the required pressures
and operate within specific tolerances. They should not require further adjustment during their service life on
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site. Adjustments of such regulators and associated safety devices might affect their safe operation and invalidate
any warranties.

a) The installer shall ensure the operating pressure at the outlet of the regulator is within
the tolerances indicated in Table 7 at a flow rate not exceeding the maximum flow rate of
the regulator.
NOTE 2 When checking a regulator on site, it is important that a sufficient gas flow rate is obtained. Where
appliances have already been installed and commissioned, this can be achieved by operating all appliances at
full gas flow rate. Where no appliances are installed and commissioned, this can be achieved by using a device
that allows a flow rate of at least 0.5 m3/h.

At low flow rates the operating pressure can tend towards the higher values in Table 7 and at high flow rates
operating pressure can tend towards the lower values.

b) The installer shall ensure that the regulator locks up at a pressure not exceeding the values given
in Table 7, with no flow through the installation.
Table 7 — Operating pressure (LPG)

Fuel Nominal outlet Minimum Maximum outlet Maximum

pressure outlet pressure pressure lock‑up
pressure

(above set
pressure)
mbar mbar mbar mbar
BS 3016 – Cylinder single stage regulator set
pressures:
Butane 28 23 33 +10
Propane 37 32 42 +15
BS 3016– Final (second) stage regulator set
pressures (low pressure):
Propane 37 32 42 +10
BS 3016 – Cylinder automatic changeover device
set pressures (low pressure):
Propane 37 32 42 +15
BS EN 12864 or BS EN 16129 – Cylinder single
stage regulator set pressures:
Butane 29 22 35 40
Propane 37 27 A)
45 50
BS EN 13785 or BS EN 16129 – Final stage
regulator set pressures (low pressure):
Propane 37 32B) 45 50

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Table 7 (continued)

Fuel Nominal outlet Minimum Maximum outlet Maximum

pressure outlet pressure pressure lock‑up
pressure

(above set
pressure)
mbar mbar mbar mbar
BS EN 13786 or BS EN 16129 – Cylinder automatic
changeover device set pressures (low pressure):
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Butane 29 22 35 40
Propane 37 27A) 45 50
A)
Value is the minimum outlet pressure specified in the regulator standard to align with BS EN 437. However, it is
recommended that for the UK market the minimum operating pressure for propane regulators is 32 mbar.
B)
Due to the UK-agreed UPSO range the minimum outlet pressure for regulators manufactured for the UK market is taken
as 32 mbar NOT the 27 mbar declared in BS EN 13785 or BS EN 16129.

10.3.4 The functional operation of the relief valve, the under-pressure shut‑off (UPSO) and the over-pressure
shut‑off (OPSO) shall be tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s testing procedures where the
manufacturer provides such instruction.
COMMENTARY ON 10.3.4
The operational set pressures for the relief valve, the UPSO and the OPSO, are factory-preset and tested
by the manufacturer in accordance with the appropriate manufacturing standard on specific test
rigs. Functional onsite tests to confirm setting pressures for these controls is not normally practical
unless specified by the manufacturer with a supporting testing procedure. It is only deemed necessary
to test the functional operation of these controls if the control manufacturer provides a supporting
procedure. In these situations the controls should be tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions provided.
See also 10.3.3.
10.3.5 If any of the checks or tests in 10.3.4 or 10.3.6 are outside the acceptable range and/or are
unsuccessful:
a) if the regulator and associated safety devices are of a type that can be adjusted, they shall
be adjusted by a person authorized by the LPG supplier in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions; or
b) if the regulator and associated safety devices are of a type that cannot be adjusted, the complete
regulator and/or associated safety devices shall be replaced.
COMMENTARY ON 10.3.5
Regulation 14(6)(b) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 [1] requires that no
person except the LPG supplier, or a person authorized to act on the supplier’s behalf, is to break a seal
on a regulator controlling the pressure of gas from a gas storage vessel.
See also 10.3.3.
10.3.6 The installer shall ensure that the regulator and safety device(s) are sealed to prevent their settings
from being interfered with without the seal being broken.

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10.4 Confirmation of adequacy of pipework sizing

When appliances are connected, it shall be confirmed that the pipework is adequate to ensure that
all appliances connected operate at their required heat input in accordance with the appliance
manufacturers’ instructions.
COMMENTARY ON 10.4
Due to the overall inaccuracies inherent in typical methods of onsite testing, to confirm that the design
pressure loss is achieved, a physical check of actual pressure losses between two specified points on an
installation is not required.
Where there is a concern that there might be an excessive pressure loss, the operating pressure at the
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primary meter outlet or, where no meter is fitted, the regulator outlet should be checked to confirm that
this is within acceptable tolerances. Where a meter is installed, a check should then be carried out to
confirm that the individual appliance(s) heat input is in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s
specification. Where multiple appliances are installed, this check should be repeated with all appliances
in operation to confirm the total of all appliance heat inputs is achieved. Where no meter is installed
on an LPG installation, it is necessary to confirm the appliance(s) operating pressure is in accordance
with the appliance manufacturer’s specification with all appliances in operation or to consult the HSE
Certificate of Exemption No.1 2008, for which further guidance is given in Technical Bulletin 021 [37]
(available via the Gas Safe Register website 4).
In addition to confirming the appliance operating pressure or heat input or, where necessary, both, the
combustion performance of the appliance should be checked with a suitable combustion performance
analyser and confirmed to be within the tolerances laid down in the appliance manufacturers’
instructions (where available) or BS 7967.

11 Maintenance
COMMENTARY ON CLAUSE 11
The maintenance of the pipework after commissioning is the duty of the responsible person.

11.1 The maintenance of pipework, including safety devices, shall ensure the continued safety of the
installation.

11.2 Any redundant pipework shall be disconnected and, where practicable, removed. Any redundant
pipework that has not been removed shall be isolated and sealed at each end with an appropriate fitting.

11.3 Where filters have been installed on the pipework, these shall be periodically checked and cleaned
(see also Annex B).

11.4 Where flexible pipework connections have been installed, they shall be periodically checked and
replaced as necessary (see 9.1.2, 9.1.8 and 9.1.9).

4 [Link] [viewed: 28 October 2015].

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Annex A (informative)
Guide to sizing pipework installations

A.1 General
Basic flow analysis problems can be solved readily using a computer program or a hand‑held
disc calculator.
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To assist in providing an example of a method for designing an installation and calculating

the required size of a pipework installation, Tables A.1, A.2, A.3, A.4 and A.5 are provided for
information only.
Due to the diversity of variables that need to be considered when sizing a pipework installation, such
as changes in pipework manufacture standards over the years and the changes to pipework bores,
etc., it is impossible to cover every possible scenario. Therefore, a number of reasonable assumptions
have been made in these tables, which are also provided for information only.
Operatives should obtain accurate pressure loss data from the pipework manufacturer when
undertaking the design process specified by 5.2.

A.2 Theories and other reasonable assumptions utilized in formulating

Tables A.1, A.2, A.3 and A.4
The following formula has been used in calculating the values in Tables A.1, A.2, A.3 and A.4.

0.5 (A.1)
Q = 57.1×10−5  pd 5 ( sLf ) 
−1
 
where:

Q is the gas flow rate (m3/h);

p is the pressure loss (mbar);

d is the internal pipe diameter (mm);

s is the density of gas relative to air;

L is the length of pipe (m); and

f is the friction factor.

The density of gas relative to air (s) is taken to be:

• 0.6 for natural gas; and
• 1.5 for LPG.
The friction factor, f, is very difficult to predict with accuracy. It is dependent on a number of
variables, including pipe roughness, velocity and Reynolds number. For the smooth pipe law a reliable
value can, however, be obtained from:

f ≈ fsp/e2 (A.2)

where:

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fsp = (14.7519 + 3.5657X + 0.0362X2)–2 and is the smooth pipe friction factor (dimensionless),
where:

X = log10 Re – 5, where:

Re is the Reynolds number: and

e is the efficiency factor (assumed as 0.86 for steel tube, 0.95 for copper tube and 0.97 for PE
pipe).

In the UK, the Reynolds number is taken to be equivalent to:

• 25 043 × Q/d for natural gas; and
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• 83 955 × Q/d for LPG.

The preceding formulae are not valid for pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing conforming to
BS EN 15266 or BS 7838. Further information should be obtained from the manufacturer.
The calorific value utilized to determine heat inputs (gross) contained in Tables A.1, A.2,
A.3 and A.4 is:
• 38.9 MJ/m3 for natural gas; and
• 93.1 MJ/m3 for LPG.
The ratio of gross:net heat input is approximately 1.11:1 for natural gas, 1.09:1 for propane
and 1.08:1 for butane. Whilst the conversion of rated input between gross and net values strictly
depends on the calorific value of gas used, in practical terms a common factor 1.1 has been used.
Table A.1 — Approximate natural gas pressure loss data (mbar/m) - copper tube

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8 10 12 15 22 28 35
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (6) (8) (10) (13) (19) (25) (32)
0.25 2.70 2.46 0.2675 0.0710 0.0255 0.0077 0.0014 0.0004 0.0001
0.50 5.40 4.91 0.8348 0.2188 0.0777 0.0231 0.0040 0.0011 0.0004
0.75 8.10 7.37 – 0.4285 0.1514 0.0447 0.0077 0.0022 0.0007
1.00 10.81 9.82 – 0.6940 0.2444 0.0719 0.0123 0.0035 0.0011
1.25 13.51 12.28 – – 0.3553 0.1042 0.0178 0.0050 0.0016
1.50 16.21 14.73 – – 0.4833 0.1414 0.0240 0.0067 0.0021
1.75 18.91 17.19 – – 0.6276 0.1832 0.0311 0.0086 0.0027
2.00 21.61 19.65 – – 0.7877 0.2296 0.0388 0.0108 0.0034
2.25 24.31 22.10 – – 0.9630 0.2804 0.0473 0.0131 0.0042
2.50 27.01 24.56 – – – 0.3353 0.0565 0.0156 0.0049
2.75 29.72 27.01 – – – 0.3945 0.0663 0.0183 0.0058
3.00 32.42 29.47 – – – 0.4577 0.0769 0.0212 0.0067
3.25 35.12 31.93 – – – 0.5249 0.0880 0.0243 0.0077
3.50 37.82 34.38 – – – 0.5960 0.0998 0.0275 0.0087
3.75 40.52 36.84 – – – 0.6709 0.1123 0.0309 0.0097
4.00 43.22 39.29 – – – 0.7496 0.1253 0.0345 0.0108
4.25 45.92 41.75 – – – 0.8321 0.1390 0.0382 0.0120
4.50 48.63 44.20 – – – 0.9182 0.1533 0.0421 0.0132
4.75 51.33 46.66 – – – – 0.1681 0.0462 0.0145
5.00 54.03 49.12 – – – – 0.1836 0.0504 0.0158

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Table A.1 (continued)

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8 10 12 15 22 28 35
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (6) (8) (10) (13) (19) (25) (32)
5.25 56.73 51.57 – – – – 0.1996 0.0548 0.0172
5.50 59.43 54.03 – – – – 0.2162 0.0593 0.0186
5.75 62.13 56.48 – – – – 0.2334 0.0640 0.0200
6.00 64.83 58.94 – – – – 0.2511 0.0688 0.0215
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6.25 67.53 61.40 – – – – 0.2694 0.0738 0.0231

6.50 70.24 63.85 – – – – 0.2882 0.0789 0.0247
6.75 72.94 66.31 – – – – 0.3076 0.0842 0.0263
7.00 75.64 68.76 – – – – 0.3275 0.0896 0.0280
7.25 78.34 71.22 – – – – 0.3480 0.0952 0.0297
7.50 81.04 73.67 – – – – 0.3690 0.1009 0.0315
7.75 83.74 76.13 – – – – 0.3905 0.1068 0.0333
8.00 86.44 78.59 – – – – 0.4126 0.1128 0.0352
8.25 89.15 81.04 – – – – 0.4352 0.1189 0.0371
8.50 91.85 83.50 – – – – 0.4583 0.1252 0.0390
9.00 97.25 88.41 – – – – 0.5060 0.1381 0.0431
9.50 102.65 93.32 – – – – 0.5559 0.1517 0.0473
10.00 108.06 98.23 – – – – 0.6077 0.1657 0.0516
11.00 118.86 108.06 – – – – 0.7173 0.1955 0.0608
12.00 129.67 117.88 – – – – 0.8348 0.2273 0.0707
13.00 140.47 127.70 – – – – 0.9600 0.2612 0.0812
14.00 151.28 137.53 – – – – – 0.2972 0.0923
15.00 162.08 147.35 – – – – – 0.3351 0.1040
16.00 172.89 157.17 – – – – – 0.3750 0.1164
A)
There are a number of internal bores available for the given nominal pipe sizes. For the purpose of this
table the assumed internal bore utilized for calculation of pressure loss values documented is shown in
brackets.

Table A.2 — Approximate natural gas pressure loss data (mbar/m) – steel tube

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8/R¼ 10/R⅜ 15/R½ 20/R¾ 25/R1 32/R1¼
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (8.6) (12.1) (15.8) (21.3) (26.9) (35.6)
0.25 2.70 2.46 0.0621 0.0130 0.0039 0.0010 0.0004 0.0001
0.50 5.40 4.91 0.1908 0.0393 0.0115 0.0029 0.0010 0.0003
0.75 8.10 7.37 0.3731 0.0761 0.0221 0.0056 0.0019 0.0005
1.00 10.81 9.82 0.6037 0.1225 0.0354 0.0089 0.0030 0.0008
1.25 13.51 12.28 0.8792 0.1777 0.0512 0.0128 0.0043 0.0012
1.50 16.21 14.73 – 0.2414 0.0693 0.0172 0.0058 0.0016
1.75 18.91 17.19 – 0.3130 0.0897 0.0222 0.0075 0.0020
2.00 21.61 19.65 – 0.3924 0.1123 0.0278 0.0094 0.0025
2.25 24.31 22.10 – 0.4793 0.1370 0.0338 0.0114 0.0031
2.50 27.01 24.56 – 0.5735 0.1637 0.0404 0.0136 0.0037
2.75 29.72 27.01 – 0.6748 0.1924 0.0474 0.0159 0.0043

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Table A.2 (continued)

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8/R¼ 10/R⅜ 15/R½ 20/R¾ 25/R1 32/R1¼
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (8.6) (12.1) (15.8) (21.3) (26.9) (35.6)
3.00 32.42 29.47 – 0.7831 0.2230 0.0549 0.0184 0.0050
3.25 35.12 31.93 – 0.8982 0.2556 0.0628 0.0210 0.0057
3.50 37.82 34.38 – – 0.2901 0.0712 0.0238 0.0064
3.75 40.52 36.84 – – 0.3264 0.0801 0.0268 0.0072
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4.00 43.22 39.29 – – 0.3645 0.0893 0.0299 0.0080

4.25 45.92 41.75 – – 0.4044 0.0991 0.0331 0.0089
4.50 48.63 44.20 – – 0.4461 0.1092 0.0364 0.0098
4.75 51.33 46.66 – – 0.4896 0.1198 0.0400 0.0107
5.00 54.03 49.12 – – 0.5347 0.1307 0.0436 0.0117
5.25 56.73 51.57 – – 0.5816 0.1421 0.0474 0.0127
5.50 59.43 54.03 – – 0.6302 0.1539 0.0513 0.0137
5.75 62.13 56.48 – – 0.6804 0.1661 0.0553 0.0148
6.00 64.83 58.94 – – 0.7323 0.1787 0.0595 0.0159
6.25 67.53 61.40 – – 0.7859 0.1917 0.0638 0.0171
6.50 70.24 63.85 – – 0.8410 0.2050 0.0682 0.0182
6.75 72.94 66.31 – – 0.8978 0.2188 0.0727 0.0195
7.00 75.64 68.76 – – 0.9562 0.2329 0.0774 0.0207
7.25 78.34 71.22 – – – 0.2474 0.0822 0.0220
7.50 81.04 73.67 – – – 0.2623 0.0872 0.0233
7.75 83.74 76.13 – – – 0.2776 0.0922 0.0246
8.00 86.44 78.59 – – – 0.2933 0.0974 0.0260
8.25 89.15 81.04 – – – 0.3093 0.1027 0.0274
8.50 91.85 83.50 – – – 0.3257 0.1081 0.0288
9.00 97.25 88.41 – – – 0.3595 0.1193 0.0318
9.50 102.65 93.32 – – – 0.3948 0.1309 0.0349
10.00 108.06 98.23 – – – 0.4316 0.1430 0.0381
11.00 118.86 108.06 – – – 0.5093 0.1687 0.0449
12.00 129.67 117.88 – – – 0.5925 0.1961 0.0521
13.00 140.47 127.70 – – – 0.6811 0.2253 0.0598
14.00 151.28 137.53 – – – 0.7751 0.2562 0.0680
15.00 162.08 147.35 – – – 0.8744 0.2889 0.0766
16.00 172.89 157.17 – – – 0.9788 0.3233 0.0857
A)
There are a number of internal bores available for the given nominal pipe sizes. For the
purpose of this table the assumed internal bore utilized for calculation of pressure loss
values documented is shown in brackets.

Table A.3 — Approximate LPG (propane) pressure loss data (mbar/m) - copper tube

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8 10 12 15 22 28 35
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (6) (8) (10) (13) (19) (25) (32)
0.25 6.47 5.88 0.4413 0.1148 0.0405 0.0119 0.0021 0.0006 0.0002
0.50 12.93 11.76 1.4367 0.3705 0.1298 0.0379 0.0064 0.0018 0.0006

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Table A.3 (continued)

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8 10 12 15 22 28 35
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (6) (8) (10) (13) (19) (25) (32)
0.75 19.40 17.63 – 0.7421 0.2590 0.0753 0.0127 0.0035 0.0011
1.00 25.86 23.51 – 1.2194 0.4246 0.1231 0.0206 0.0057 0.0018
1.25 32.33 29.39 – 1.7959 0.6243 0.1807 0.0302 0.0083 0.0026
1.50 38.79 35.27 – – 0.8565 0.2474 0.0412 0.0113 0.0035
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1.75 45.26 41.14 – – 1.1200 0.3231 0.0537 0.0147 0.0046

2.00 51.72 47.02 – – 1.4137 0.4074 0.0676 0.0185 0.0058
2.25 58.19 52.90 – – 1.7369 0.5001 0.0829 0.0227 0.0071
2.50 64.65 58.78 – – – 0.6009 0.0995 0.0272 0.0085
2.75 71.12 64.65 – – – 0.7097 0.1174 0.0320 0.0100
3.00 77.58 70.53 – – – 0.8264 0.1365 0.0372 0.0116
3.25 84.05 76.41 – – – 0.9508 0.1569 0.0428 0.0133
3.50 90.51 82.29 – – – 1.0827 0.1786 0.0486 0.0151
3.75 96.98 88.16 – – – 1.2222 0.2014 0.0548 0.0170
4.00 103.44 94.04 – – – 1.3690 0.2254 0.0613 0.0191
4.25 109.91 99.92 – – – 1.5230 0.2506 0.0682 0.0212
4.50 116.38 105.80 – – – 1.6843 0.2770 0.0753 0.0234
4.75 122.84 111.67 – – – 1.8527 0.3045 0.0827 0.0257
5.00 129.31 117.55 – – – – 0.3332 0.0905 0.0281
5.25 135.77 123.43 – – – – 0.3630 0.0985 0.0305
5.50 142.24 129.31 – – – – 0.3939 0.1069 0.0331
5.75 148.70 135.18 – – – – 0.4259 0.1155 0.0358
6.00 155.17 141.06 – – – – 0.4590 0.1245 0.0385
6.25 161.63 146.94 – – – – 0.4932 0.1337 0.0414
6.50 168.10 152.82 – – – – 0.5284 0.1432 0.0443
6.75 174.56 158.69 – – – – 0.5648 0.1530 0.0473
7.00 181.03 164.57 – – – – 0.6022 0.1631 0.0505
7.25 187.49 170.45 – – – – 0.6406 0.1735 0.0537
7.50 193.96 176.33 – – – – 0.6801 0.1841 0.0569
7.75 200.42 182.20 – – – – 0.7206 0.1950 0.0603
8.00 206.89 188.08 – – – – 0.7622 0.2062 0.0637
8.25 213.35 193.96 – – – – 0.8048 0.2177 0.0673
8.50 219.82 199.84 – – – – 0.8484 0.2295 0.0709
9.00 232.75 211.59 – – – – 0.9386 0.2538 0.0784
9.50 245.68 223.35 – – – – 1.0329 0.2792 0.0862
10.00 258.61 235.10 – – – – 1.1312 0.3056 0.0943
11.00 284.47 258.61 – – – – 1.3394 0.3616 0.1115
12.00 310.33 282.12 – – – – 1.5632 0.4218 0.1300
13.00 336.19 305.63 – – – – 1.8022 0.4860 0.1498
14.00 362.06 329.14 – – – – – 0.5543 0.1707
15.00 387.92 352.65 – – – – – 0.6265 0.1929
16.00 413.78 376.16 – – – – – 0.7025 0.2162

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Table A.3 (continued)

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8 10 12 15 22 28 35
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (6) (8) (10) (13) (19) (25) (32)
A)
There are a number of internal bores available for the given nominal pipe sizes. For the purpose of this
table the assumed internal bore utilized for calculation of pressure loss values documented is shown in
brackets.

Table A.4 — Approximate LPG (propane) pressure loss data (mbar/m) - steel tube
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Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8/R¼ 10/R⅜ 15/R½ 20/R¾ 25/R1 32/R1¼
(m3/h) (kW) (kW) (8.6) (12.1) (15.8) (21.3) (26.9) (35.6)
0.25 6.47 5.88 0.0999 0.0203 0.0059 0.0015 0.0005 0.0001
0.50 12.93 11.76 0.3217 0.0647 0.0186 0.0046 0.0016 0.0004
0.75 19.40 17.63 0.6437 0.1288 0.0368 0.0091 0.0030 0.0008
1.00 25.86 23.51 1.0569 0.2107 0.0600 0.0147 0.0049 0.0013
1.25 32.33 29.39 1.5558 0.3094 0.0878 0.0215 0.0072 0.0019
1.50 38.79 35.27 – 0.4239 0.1201 0.0294 0.0098 0.0026
1.75 45.26 41.14 – 0.5538 0.1567 0.0382 0.0127 0.0034
2.00 51.72 47.02 – 0.6985 0.1974 0.0481 0.0160 0.0043
2.25 58.19 52.90 – 0.8575 0.2421 0.0589 0.0196 0.0052
2.50 64.65 58.78 – 1.0307 0.2908 0.0707 0.0235 0.0063
2.75 71.12 64.65 – 1.2176 0.3432 0.0834 0.0277 0.0074
3.00 77.58 70.53 – 1.4180 0.3994 0.0970 0.0321 0.0086
3.25 84.05 76.41 – 1.6317 0.4594 0.1114 0.0369 0.0098
3.50 90.51 82.29 – 1.8584 0.5229 0.1267 0.0420 0.0112
3.75 96.98 88.16 – – 0.5900 0.1429 0.0473 0.0126
4.00 103.44 94.04 – – 0.6606 0.1599 0.0529 0.0140
4.25 109.91 99.92 – – 0.7347 0.1778 0.0588 0.0156
4.50 116.38 105.80 – – 0.8123 0.1965 0.0649 0.0172
4.75 122.84 111.67 – – 0.8933 0.2159 0.0713 0.0189
5.00 129.31 117.55 – – 0.9776 0.2362 0.0780 0.0207
5.25 135.77 123.43 – – 1.0652 0.2573 0.0849 0.0225
5.50 142.24 129.31 – – 1.1562 0.2791 0.0921 0.0244
5.75 148.70 135.18 – – 1.2504 0.3018 0.0995 0.0263
6.00 155.17 141.06 – – 1.3478 0.3252 0.1072 0.0284
6.25 161.63 146.94 – – 1.4485 0.3494 0.1152 0.0305
6.50 168.10 152.82 – – 1.5524 0.3743 0.1234 0.0326
6.75 174.56 158.69 – – 1.6594 0.4000 0.1318 0.0348
7.00 181.03 164.57 – – 1.7695 0.4264 0.1405 0.0371
7.25 187.49 170.45 – – 1.8828 0.4536 0.1494 0.0395
7.50 193.96 176.33 – – 1.9992 0.4815 0.1586 0.0419
7.75 200.42 182.20 – – – 0.5102 0.1680 0.0443
8.00 206.89 188.08 – – – 0.5395 0.1776 0.0469
8.25 213.35 193.96 – – – 0.5696 0.1875 0.0495
8.50 219.82 199.84 – – – 0.6005 0.1976 0.0521

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Table A.4 (continued)

Flow Heat input Nominal pipe size (mm/R)A)

rate
Gross Net 8/R¼ 10/R⅜ 15/R½ 20/R¾ 25/R1 32/R1¼
(m /h)
3
(kW) (kW) (8.6) (12.1) (15.8) (21.3) (26.9) (35.6)
9.00 232.75 211.59 – – – 0.6642 0.2185 0.0576
9.50 245.68 223.35 – – – 0.7308 0.2403 0.0633
10.00 258.61 235.10 – – – 0.8002 0.2631 0.0693
11.00 284.47 258.61 – – – 0.9474 0.3112 0.0819
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12.00 310.33 282.12 – – – 1.1053 0.3630 0.0955

13.00 336.19 305.63 – – – 1.2741 0.4182 0.1100
14.00 362.06 329.14 – – – 1.4533 0.4768 0.1253
15.00 387.92 352.65 – – – 1.6430 0.5388 0.1416
16.00 413.78 376.16 – – – 1.8430 0.6042 0.1587
A)
There are a number of internal bores available for the given nominal pipe sizes. For the
purpose of this table the assumed internal bore utilized for calculation of pressure loss
values documented is shown in brackets.

Table A.5 — Typical allowances for pressure loss of fittings

Nominal pipe size Equivalent length, m

Bends Fittings
Steel Copper 45° 90° 90° elbow TeeA) TeeA)
(flow entering (flow exiting
from a branch) into a branch)

≤15 mm ≤R½ ≤15 mm 0.15 0.20 0.40 0.75 1.20

20 mm R¾ 22 mm 0.20 0.30 0.60 1.20 1.80
25 mm R1 28 mm 0.25 0.40 0.80 1.50 2.30
32 mm R1¼ 35 mm 0.30 0.50 1.00 2.00 3.00
A)
Use the largest connection size on the fitting that is not necessarily the branch size.
NOTE For pressure losses associated with press end fittings, pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing
fittings, flexible connections, secondary meters, check valves, regulators, etc., reference needs to be made to the
manufacturer’s data.

A.3 Example natural gas pipework installation design

Figure A.1 gives an example of a typical natural gas copper tube installation showing the lengths of
pipework and the heat input of the appliances. The pipework has been sized using Table A.1 and
Table A.5. The results of the design exercise are shown in Table A.6.

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Figure A.1 — Example natural gas installation

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Key
1 Meter 4 Combination boiler (30 kW net)
2 Cooker (11 kW net) 5 Fire (5 kW net)
3 Tumble dryer (4 kW net)

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Table A.6 — Sizing results

Pipework Maximum Maximum Estimated Pipe Fittings allowanceB) Adjusted Pressure Pressure lossC)
section heat flow rate A)
pipe size length length loss/metre
inputA)
Type Equiv length
kW m3/h mm/DN m m m mbar/m mbar
A–B 50 (net) – 28 1 Elbow × 1 0.80 3.3 0.0548 0.19

Tee 1.50
(Enter) × 1
B–C 5 (net) – 15 1 90° Bend × 2 0.40 1.4 0.0447 0.07
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B–D 45 (net) – 28 3 N/A 0 3.0 0.0462 0.14

D–E 30 (net) – 22 1 Tee 2.30 3.9 0.0880 0.35
(Exit) × 1
0.60
Elbow × 1
D–F 15 (net) – 22 1.5 N/A 0 1.5 0.0311 0.05
F–G 11 (net) – 15 1 Tee 1.80 3.2 0.1042 0.34
(Exit) × 1
0.40
Elbow × 1
F–H 4 (net) – 15 3 Elbow × 1 0.40 3.4 0.0231 0.08
Pressure loss to points to be connected on each appliance
Appliance Maximum Pipework sections and associated pressure loss Total pressure loss Satisfactory?
heat input mbar
mbar
kW (net)
Cooker 11 A–B B–D D–F F–G 0.72 Yes
0.19 0.14 0.05 0.34
Tumble dryer 4 A–B B–D D–F F–H 0.46 Yes
0.19 0.14 0.05 0.08
Combination boiler 30 A–B B–D D–E – 0.68 Yes
0.19 0.14 0.35 –
Fire 5 A–B B–C – – 0.26 Yes
0.19 0.07 – –
A)
Either “maximum heat input” or “maximum flow rate” can be specified for the purpose of the design calculations.

B)
Many appliances have horizontal connections, so in practice an additional elbow might be required at each point, and this should be
considered in the design process.

C)
All pressures have been rounded up to 2 decimal places.

When designing a pipework installation, it is essential that consideration is given to the permissible
pressure loss in each section of the installation.
For example, the pressure loss between A and H in Figure A.1 should not exceed 1 mbar. This section,
A to H, is made up of four sections of pipework, A–B, B–D, D–F and F–H. Each section has a different
heat input/flow rate requirement and needs to be sized separately.
For this installation, for given heat inputs/flow rates and pipework sizes, the pressure losses per
metre length of tube are given in Table A.1. These pressure losses are utilized with the adjusted
length [actual length + equivalent length allowance(s) for fittings] to provide a design pressure
loss for each given section of the pipework installation. Where the exact heat input/flow rate is not
documented, the next heat input/flow rate upwards should be utilized.
When the design pressure loss for each section of this pipework installation has been calculated, the
total pressure loss between the meter outlet and the point to be connected on each appliance inlet

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should be determined. The total pressure loss at each point to be connected on each appliance inlet
should not in this example exceed 1 mbar.
If the design pressure loss at any of the appliance inlets exceeds the maximum allowed, in this
case 1 mbar, then it is necessary to re‑estimate the proposed pipework size(s) for one or more of the
sections that supply any affected appliance(s). The design process should then be repeated for all of
the sections affected by the revision to the proposed pipework size, and the results re‑evaluated. This
process should be repeated until the design pressure loss at all of the appliance inlets does not exceed
the maximum allowed.
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Annex B (informative)
Sulfidation of natural gas installations
Sulfidation (“black dust”) is produced by a reaction between trace amounts of hydrogensulfide (H2S)
in gas and domestic copper pipework. The thin, shiny, black flakes of copper sulfide (Cu2S) break off
to be carried along the pipework and into gas appliances, where they accumulate in valves, filters
and injectors.
In some gas installations, sulfidation forms a black film on the inner surface of copper gas supply
pipework. The thickness of the coating depends on the amount of H2S in the gas and the thicker
the coating, the less stable it becomes, often flaking off and breaking down to form black dust. The
maximum amount of H2S concentration permitted in gas throughout the United Kingdom (UK) is
controlled by the Gas Safety (Management) Regulations [8], [9].
Although copper sulfide is described as dust, when first formed it has the appearance of small
platelets with a metallic sheen. The platelets are quite brittle and easily break down to become
dust, particularly in a fast moving gas stream, where it builds up in and blocks gas valves, filters and
injectors. This can result in gas valves failing to operate and reductions in appliance performance. In
some extreme cases the build‑up can completely block the gas pipework.
The actual rate of production of copper sulfide is dependent upon a number of factors, including:
• size of pipework contributing to high velocity of the gas;
• temperature and configuration of the copper pipework;
• concentration of H2S in the gas supply;
• oxygen concentration in the gas supply; and
• amount of water vapour in the gas supply.
What remedies are available?
Fit filters to appliances and label to indicate that the appliances have such filters. Change pipework
material, e.g. copper to steel or pliable corrugated (stainless-steel) tubing.

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Annex C (informative)
Summary and principal conclusions of the Advantica
Research Project, Gas in intermediate floors, Report
Number 6699 [28]
NOTE The results and conclusions of this report apply to natural gas installations only and should not, therefore,
be applied to installations supplied with LPG or LPG/air gas mixtures.
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C.1 Introduction
Regulation 19(6) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations [1] requires adequate
ventilation to be present when pipework is located within voids, shafts and ducts.
With the general use of board materials (chipboard, oriented strand board, plywood) as the decking
there was concern regarding the level of potential gas build‑up within the voids between joists of
intermediate floors associated with minor gas leaks.

C.2 Rationale for specification of a minor leak

In developing the specification for this research, it was determined that a minor gas leak is an escape
equal to or less than 19 mL/min under the conditions specified in IGEM/UP/1B [38] based upon the
following information.
a) Regulation 19(6) of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations [1] states, “Where any
installation pipework is not itself contained in a ventilated duct, no person shall install any
installation pipework in any shaft, duct or void which is not adequately ventilated.”
b) BS 6891:1998 (incorporating Amendment Nos. 1 & 2), 8.7.1, interpreted “adequate
ventilation” as “ventilated to ensure that minor gas leakage does not cause the atmosphere to
become unsafe.”
c) The C&R to BS 6891:1998 (incorporating Amendment Nos. 1 & 2), 8.7.1, advised that minor gas
leakage is “that which would remain undetected by normal soundness testing techniques” and
further “the level of ventilation is not intended to clear a major gas escape arising from damage
or failure of a gas pipe.”
d) IGE/UP/1 [39], IGE/UP/1A [40] and IGEM/UP/1B [38] explained that, “A gas tightness test is a
test undertaken to ensure that the leakage rate of an installation is below a level which could be
considered to form a hazard assuming adequate ventilation has been provided.”
e) IGEM/UP/1B [38] allowed a pressure drop for a domestic gas installation with appliance(s)
connected of 4 mbar over a 2 min period. This is based on an average sized installation of 10 L
(this includes a U6 meter and pipework). Different volumes (e.g. with different sized meters)
allow different pressure drops.
f) The allowable pressure drop equates to an escape rate of 19 mL/min. The smallest leak that can
be detected by smell is 1 mL/min; the smallest leak that can be ignited is 14 mL/min.

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C.3 Test conditions

Whilst recognizing that there is a wide range of possible test floor layouts and gas leak rates, a project
specification was developed to provide data on gas build‑up arising from a minor gas leak in a:
a) typical new-build floor;
b) a floor covered to represent a more sealed arrangement; and
c) a floor, including a skirting arrangement and stud walling.
Advantica undertook an experimental study [28], commissioned by the Gas Industry Safety Group
(GISG), to make gas concentration measurements within, above and below this representative 3 m2
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floor cassette with typical openings for plumbing and electrical services. The tests were performed
using a fixed orifice opening and a range of gas supply pressures to vary the gas leak rate.

C.4 Conclusions
The experimental study reached the following conclusions.
a) In the event of a gas leak from pipework in the floor void, a modern floor construction allows
passage of gas across joists and the voids created as a consequence of the installation of
electrical and plumbing services.
b) The profiles for gas build‑up and decay within the floor compartments and the upper and lower
volumes (constructed to represent habitable spaces above and below the floor void) were
consistent with theoretical approaches.
c) Adding floor covering above the floor and painting the ceiling under the floor alters the
characteristics of the gas concentration build‑up within the floor. The more sealed nature of the
test results in higher gas concentrations within the floor assembly.
d) The trends in gas concentration across the test floor were always in the order F1 > F2 > F3,
F4 and F5. This was expected as the gas leak was in compartment F1 and F2 is the next
compartment in the sequence.
NOTE 1 The test floor assembly comprised five compartments 3 m long, 600 mm wide and 241 mm deep with
knock outs removed from the I‑joists to allow transfer of air and gas from one compartment into adjacent
compartments. These compartments were assigned designations F1, F2, F3, F4 and F5, with F1 containing
the gas leak.

e) Gas concentrations in compartments F3, F4 and F5 were often similar and reflected the fact that
penetrations were added to mimic the effect of plumbing and electrical services penetrating
into the floor void. Increased ventilation and leakage were thus possible from these three
compartments. However, in the most sealed floor condition F3 was greater that F4 and F5.
f) Measured gas concentrations in the upper (i.e. above the test floor) and lower (i.e. below the
test floor) polythene shrouded volumes were typically lower than those in the floor cassette
assembly, reflecting the increased volume of the enclosure and potentially increased ventilation
rates through the tape sealed joints. The measured values were often around the threshold levels
for odorant detection.
NOTE 2 The polythene shrouded volumes above and below the test floor were to simulate the location of the
floor within a home.

g) The measured gas concentration in the lower volume was greater than the upper for all test
cases except where the floor had the saw‑cut and skirting added.

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h) For a gas leak rate of 19mL/min the build‑up of gas within the test floor did not produce a gas
concentration greater than 2.5% gas in air, irrespective of floor condition, i.e. the degree of
ventilation of the floor void.
i) As anticipated, for gas leakage rates considerably in excess of (e.g. 30 mL/min) a minor gas
leak, the build‑up of gas within the test floor did produce increased gas in air concentrations
within the floor void. These concentrations were also affected by the degree of ventilation of
the floor void.
A copy of the full report may be obtained from Advantica, Ashby Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire
LE11 3GR; Telephone 01509 282000; Facsimile 01509 283131, quoting Advantica Report
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Number 6699 “GAS PIPES IN INTERMEDIATE FLOORS”. Any questions on the research project and its
conclusions should be addressed to Advantica.

Annex D (informative)
Protected area
For the purposes of this standard the term “protected area” is used in relation to fire safety, and
is a ventilated space containing gas pipework and isolated from other parts of the building within
fire‑resisting construction.
NOTE Fire resistance is the ability of a component or construction of a building to satisfy for a stated period of
time some or all of the appropriate criteria specified in the relevant part of BS 476.

The Building Regulations (England and Wales) 2010, as amended [5], the Scottish Building Standards
Technical Handbook 2 [41] and Northern Ireland Technical Booklet E [42] provide the following
definitions in relation to fire protected areas.
England
a) Protected corridor/lobby. A corridor or lobby which is adequately protected from fire in
adjoining accommodation by fire‑resisting construction.
b) Protected entrance hall/landing. A circulation area consisting of a hall or space in a flat, enclosed
within fire‑resisting construction (other than any part which is an external wall of a building).
NOTE For each individual flat, depending on the size of accommodation, its height above ground level, the
availability of escape windows and its fire separation from the common stair from which it is accessed, there
might be a need under the Building Regulations [5], [6], [7] to provide a protected entrance hall/landing
within the flat. In such cases the doors and walls between the entrance hall/landing and the rooms that it
serves (normally excluding bathrooms and WCs) would need to be fire resisting. In most circumstances this
could be achieved with FD20 fire doors and 30-minute fire‑resisting partitions.

In such cases it might be permissible for a pipe/sleeve up to 40 mm internal diameter to pass through the
fire‑resisting wall/ceiling without further protection, provided it is sealed to the wall/ceiling construction.
Any pipe/vented sleeve/vented ducting of larger diameter could require intumescent collars to maintain the
required fire protection. The building control body should be consulted for further advice.

c) Protected stairway. A stair discharging through a final exit to a place of safety (including any exit
passageway between the foot of the stair and the final exit) that is adequately enclosed within a
fire‑resisting construction.
d) Compartment floor wall or floor. A fire-resisting wall or floor used in the separation of one fire
compartment from another protected shaft.

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Scotland
a) Compartment. A part of a building (which might contain one or more rooms, spaces or storeys
and includes, where relevant, the space above the top storey of the compartment) constructed so as
to prevent the spread of fire to or from another part of the same building, and “compartmented” and
“compartmentation” should be construed accordingly.
b) Compartment wall. A wall with the fire resistance required to ensure compartmentation.
c) Compartment floor. A floor with the fire resistance required to ensure compartmentation.
d) Protected enclosure in a dwelling means a circulation area constructed to resist fire in adjoining
accommodation. It includes a hall, landing or private stair or ramp but not a room.
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e) Protected lobby. A lobby within a protected zone but separated from the remainder of the
protected zone so as to resist the movement of smoke from the adjoining accommodation to the
remainder of the protected zone.
f) Protected zone. That part of an escape route which is within a building, but not within a room,
and to which access is only by way of a protected door and from which there is an exit directly to a
place of safety.

Annex E (normative)
LPG Final stage regulator and safety devices

E.1 General
E.1.1 The installation shall include a regulator, an over-pressure shut‑off (OPSO) device and limited relief
valve upstream of the installation pipework. These can be incorporated into a single device. The
limited relief valve shall have a maximum capacity not exceeding 5% of the regulator design capacity.
If the installation is supplied from a gas storage vessel (other than a refillable cylinder or a cylinder
or cartridge designed to be disposed of when empty), it shall incorporate an under‑pressure shut-off
(UPSO) device upstream of the installation pipework.
COMMENTARY ON E.1.1
The purpose of the OPSO and limited relief valve is to prevent the installation pipework and gas fittings
downstream of the regulator from being subjected to a pressure greater than that for which they were
designed, for example if the regulator fails.
The regulator design capacity is the rated capacity of the regulator declared by the manufacturer.
When specifying a regulator it is necessary to confirm that the limited relief valve has a maximum
capacity of not greater than 5% of the regulator design capacity.
The purpose of the UPSO is to prevent the installation pipework and gas fittings downstream of the
regulator from being subjected to a pressure less than that for which they were designed, protecting
the installation if the gas supply pressure falls to a dangerously low level, for example because the LPG
storage vessel has become empty.
E.1.2 Pressure regulators shall be installed in accordance with the regulator manufacturer’s instructions.
E.1.3 The design of the installation shall ensure a nominal operating pressure at the outlet of the final stage
regulator is in accordance with Table E.1.

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E.1.4 The regulator and safety devices shall be preset to conform to Table E.1.
Table E.1 — Pressure characteristics of various regulators (LPG)
Fuel Nominal Minimum Maximum Maximum Relief valve UPSO OPSO
outlet outlet outlet lock‑up operating operating operating
pressure pressure pressure pressure range range range

(above set
pressure)
mbar mbar mbar mbar mbarA) mbar mbarA)
BS 3016 – Cylinder single stage
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regulator set pressures:

Butane 28 23 33 +10 – – –
Propane 37 32 42 +15 – – –
BS 3016 – Final (second) stage
regulator set pressures (low
pressure):
Propane 37 32 42 +10 50 – 62B) 25 – 32 70 – 80
BS 3016 – Cylinder automatic
changeover device set pressures (low
pressure):
Propane 37 32 42 +15 50 – 62B) – 70 – 80
BS EN 12864 or BS EN 16129 –
Cylinder single stage regulator set
pressures:
Butane 29 22 35 40 48 – 150 – 48 – 150
Propane 37 27C) 45 50 60 – 150 – 60 – 150
BS EN 13785 or BS EN 16129 – Final
stage regulator set pressures (low
pressure):
Propane 37 32D) 45 50 60 – 150 25 – 32E) 60 – 150
BS EN 13786 or BS EN 16129 –
Cylinder automatic changeover device
set pressures (low pressure):
Butane 29 22 35 40 48 – 150 – 48 – 150
Propane 37 27 C)
45 50 60 – 150 – 60 – 150
A)
For BS EN 13785 and BS EN 16129 regulators this operating range is the maximum and minimum values within which the device
needs to activate. BS EN 16129 specifies a tolerance on the manufacturer’s declared set pressure of ±20% for a relief valve and ±15%
for an OPSO.

B)
Normal setting 55 mbar.

C)
Value is the minimum outlet pressure specified in the regulator standard to align with BS EN 437. However, it is recommended that, for
the UK market, the minimum operating pressure for propane regulators is 32 mbar.

D)
Due to the UK-agreed UPSO range the minimum outlet pressure for regulators manufactured for the UK market is taken as 32 mbar
NOT the 27 mbar declared in BS EN 13785 or BS EN 16129.

E)
Industry-agreed figures for regulators manufactured for the UK market (not formally documented in the standards).

E.2 Location
E.2.1 Regulators and automatic changeover devices shall not be sited:
a) in close proximity to any source of heat or where they might be subjected to extremes of
temperature;

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b) where they might be exposed to accidental damage;

c) where they might cause an obstruction;
d) where they might be affected by a corrosive atmosphere;
e) where they will constitute a danger to any person;
f) any nearer to electrical wiring, switchgear, etc., than the distances specified in 8.4.2;
g) in a basement or cellar; or
h) at such a low level that there is a significant risk of them being submerged in the event
of flooding.
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E.2.2 Regulators incorporating a limited relief valve shall not be sited in a covered passageway or car port
except where the passageway or car port has at least two open and unobstructed sides to ensure the
area is ventilated.
E.2.3 Regulators and automatic changeover devices connected to cylinders shall be located so that the inlet
to the regulator is at or above the level of the cylinder outlet valve connection. They shall not be sited
in a covered passageway or car port.
E.2.4 Where there is a regulator downstream of an ECV/AECV, the inlet of the regulator and its safety
devices shall be connected as near as practicable to the outlet of that ECV/AECV.
E.2.5 The regulator and limited relief valve vent tip shall be located away from any source of ignition,
and in a location and manner not subject to fouling, blockage, water ingress or interference by
unauthorized persons.
E.2.6 Diaphragm vent holes and limited relief valves in regulators shall be carefully orientated or otherwise
protected against the possible ingress of water or substances which could cause blockage, and also to
allow for drainage.
E.2.7 Regulators incorporating a limited relief valve shall not be located within a building.
E.2.8 Regulators incorporating a limited relief valve shall be located so that the limited relief valve vent is
terminated in accordance with Table E.2.
E.2.9 Where a regulator incorporating a limited relief valve is located inside an enclosure external to the
building, the limited relief valve shall be piped in order to terminate in a safe location in accordance
with Table E.2. The tip of any vent pipe shall be securely fixed so it protrudes out of the enclosure by
at least 25 mm and points downwards.
NOTE Where the minimum clearances from a limited relief valve tip that is integral to the regulator cannot be
achieved, the limited relief can be piped in order to terminate in a safe location in accordance with Table E.2.

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Table E.2 — Minimum proximity distances for relief valve vent tips (millimetres)

Semi‑concealed Meter housing other Meter housing Vent tip to Vent tip to
meter box to than semi‑concealed to to electrical openingD) electrical
openingA) openingB) equipmentC) equipmentE)
1 000 180 330 570 850
A)
This is the distance from the meter box to any un‑trapped drain, gully, balanced flue terminal or low-
level opening into the building, such as doors or air bricks which are below 250 mm from ground level.
B)
This is the distance from the meter housing to any opening into the building, such as opening windows,
doors, air bricks and balanced flue terminals.
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C)
This is the distance from any meter housing to any electrical equipment.
D)
This is the distance from any relief valve vent tip to any opening into the property or un‑trapped drain or
gully.
E)
This is the distance from the relief valve vent tip to any electrical equipment.
NOTE 1 The limited relief valve has a capacity of not greater than 5% of the regulator design capacity.

NOTE 2 Minimum proximity distances are aligned with those in BS 6400‑2 for 2nd family gases and have
been confirmed by Calor Gas Limited in accordance with BS EN 60079‑10.

E.2.10 The internal diameter of any vent pipe shall not change the performance of the regulator and shall be
of sufficient size to vent at the maximum relief valve discharge capacity of the regulator.
NOTE A long vent pipe might require a larger diameter in order to maintain the maximum relief valve discharge
capacity and avoid undue back‑pressure on the pressure control and protection system.

Annex F (informative)
Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres
Regulations [17], [18]
Gas pipework design and installation for commercial installation undertaken in accordance with
this standard has to account for any requirements imposed by DSEAR [17], [18]. However, it is
acknowledged that a DSEAR risk assessment might be undertaken by others some time later on the
completed installation. Such an assessment could identify issues with the gas installation, which
could have arisen as a result of subsequent work undertaken by others on the site after completion
of the gas installation or of site-specific risks subsequently identified. It is acknowledged that such
issues cannot be assessed at the design or installation stage.
DSEAR principally concerns risks to the safety of workers, rather than risks to property, equipment or
business continuation.
DSEAR applies to all businesses where:
a) there is work being carried out by an employer or self‑employed person;
b) a dangerous substance is present or is liable to be present at the workplace; and
c) the dangerous substance presents a risk to human safety.
The very wide definition of “workplace” covers any premises or part of premises used for work.
“Premises” includes all industrial and commercial premises, land‑based and offshore installations, as
well as vehicles and vessels. Common parts of shared buildings, private roads and paths on industrial
estates, and business parks are also “premises”, as are schools, hospitals, restaurants, houses and

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other domestic dwellings. Basically, if there is a work activity in “premises” as defined then it is a
workplace for DSEAR purposes.
The HSE has prepared the following guidance on interpreting DSEAR.
1) L138 Dangerous Substance and Explosive Atmospheres. Approved Code of Practice and
guidance [43]; and
2) Fire and Explosion – how safe is your workplace? INDG 370 [44].
IGEM has prepared the following guidance on interpreting DSEAR:
i) IGEM/UP/2 [12];
Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

ii) IGEM/UP/16 [45]; and

iii) IGEM/SR/25 [46].
The Energy Institute has prepared the following guidance on interpreting DSEAR: EI
IP‑MCSP‑P15 [47].

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Bibliography
Standards publications
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 476 (all parts), Fire tests on building materials and structures
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Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

BS 1710:1984, Specification for identification of pipelines and services

BS 3632, Residential park homes — Specification
BS 4250, Specification for commercial butane and commercial propane
BS 5482‑1:2005, Domestic butane- and propane- gas‑burning installations — Part 1: Installations at
permanent dwellings, residential park homes and commercial premises, with installation pipework sizes
not exceeding DN 25 for steel and DN 28 for corrugated stainless steel or copper5
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caravans and non‑permanent dwellings
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including 450/750 V, for electric power, lighting and internal wiring
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carbon monoxide in dwellings and the combustion performance of domestic gas fired appliances
BS 8313, Code of practice for the accommodation of building services in ducts
BS EN 437, Tests gases — Test pressures — Appliance categories
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commercial butane and their mixtures in the vapour phase – Part 1: Requirements for rubber and
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BS EN 1949:2011+A1:2013, Specification for the installation of LPG systems for habitation purposes in
leisure accommodation vehicles and accommodation purposes in other vehicles
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BS EN 29453, Soft solder alloys — Chemical composition and forms
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PD 5482‑3, Code of practice for domestic butane and propane gas‑burning installations — Part 3:
Installations in boats, yachts and other vessels

5 Partially withdrawn
6 Withdrawn.

88 © THE BRITISH STANDARDS INSTITUTION 2019 – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Other publications
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[5] ENGLAND AND WALES. The Building Regulations 2010 (England and Wales), as amended.
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7 Published and available from the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers, IGEM House, High Street, Kegworth, Derbyshire, DE74 2DA.

© THE BRITISH STANDARDS INSTITUTION 2019 – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 89

 BS 6891:2015+A1:2019
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[21] INSTITUTION OF GAS ENGINEERS AND MANAGERS. IGE/UP/1 Edition 2: Strength

testing, tightness testing and direct purging of industrial and commercial gas installations.
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Gas Safe Register licensed subscription copy

[24] ADVANTICA TECHNOLOGIES LTD. PRS/1E: Brass and copper fittings (Issue 3). Loughborough:
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of domestic sized Natural Gas installations. Kegworth: IGEM. 1998.8

8 Published and available from the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers, IGEM House, High Street, Kegworth, Derbyshire, DE74 2DA.

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[39] INSTITUTION OF GAS ENGINEERS AND MANAGERS: IGE/UP/1, Soundness testing and purging
of industrial and commercial gas installations. Kegworth: IGEM. 1995.8
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purging of small low pressure industrial and commercial Natural Gas installations. Kegworth:
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Bulletin E: Fire safety. 2005. [Link]

dfp/DFP%20Technical%20Booklet%20E%202005%20-%20Fire%[Link] [viewed: 28
October 2015].
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Atmospheres Regulations. INDG370(rev1). 2013. [Link]
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[45] INSTITUTION OF GAS ENGINEERS AND MANAGERS. IGEM/UP/16: Design for Natural Gas
installations on industrial and commercial premises with respect to hazardous area classification
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[46] INSTITUTION OF GAS ENGINEERS AND MANAGERS. IGEM/SR/25. Edition 2: Hazardous area
classification of Natural Gas installations. Kegworth: IGEM. 2011.8
[47] ENERGY INSTITUTE. EI IP‑MCSP‑P15: Model Code of Safe Practice Part 15: Area Classification
Code for installations handling flammable fluids (Third edition). London: Energy Institute. 2005.

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