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Editorial 61 – 31.12.2003

We round off 2003 with a light hearted review and wish everyone (whoever they are) a happy and peaceful new year.

New Scam / Virus – 30.12.2003

Familiar MO but a new target and this time the Bank of England. They reckon (unbelievably) that 100 000 have already replied (Source BBC).

Recycling the truth – 30.12.2003

A sobering report is posted at the BBC which will appeal to critics of modern lifestyles and push me to the front of the killjoy of the year award list. Nevertheless some interesting brain fodder.

Comment 49 – 28.12.2003

We explore the new information we have received under the title – ACS II and Work Experience (what we know to date examined) – which is based upon the belated Corgi Press Release dated 22.12.2003. Comment 49 invites your comments on or off the Discussion Board.

Housing Costs – 27.12.2003

According to a BBC report the cost of owning and running a house is increasing at more than three times the rate of inflation. Given that information it seems possible that overall, energy efficiency take up may be weakened. Coupled with this, the sanitised reality that has hitherto been the hallmark of Corgi PR, was broken this year (slightly), with a report on consumer attitudes to gas safety. Don’t forget the UK allegedly has record debt levels: Cast your net wide in 2004 and don’t become too focused.

ACS 2003 – 27.12.2003

There is an update (press release) on the CORGI website which was slotted in at the eleventh hour on 22.12.2003 and is now in our ACS 2003 section. This includes some details of work experience requirements. We now have a launch pad from which to begin a debate. It seems to us this is an appropriate time for independent training providers to rally, perhaps with Gas-News and do what the Trade and Professional Associations should be doing. One has already been in touch and we are willing to discuss a strategy. They and SME’s are clearly at risk. Time we developed an alliance and did something about it ?

Jobs and Service Watch – 26.12.2003

The BBC reports a move by AMICUS to enlist the support of the NUS to keep call-centre jobs in the UK. I have only once been routed to a call centre and nice as the lady was who answered, it took her far too long to take down my name. It had reached the point where I was asked to spell it out. That was when I politely excused myself and hung up. It will not happen again. When I pay for service (and the telephone call) I expect service. We are migrating this year to companies who have call centres in the UK. We’ll let you know when we’ve done that.

ACS 2003 – 21.12.2003

Those who have followed recent events will know we wrote to the Minister of State for Work as we could not get answers to reasonable questions. Some helpful answers have been received but there is still the major hurdle of Work Experience which must be addressed. The former website section has been deleted from the server and replaced with a wholly new (re-written) section which we hope is future proof and can be expanded as news arrives. As always comments invited.

BG Recruitment – 21.12.2003

Apprentice Service Engineer Vacancies are up for grabs if you are aged 17-23, minimum 4 GCSE’s / Standard Grades, UK driving licence, Self-reliant and responsible. Click on http://www.britishgasacademy.co.uk for information and application.

Hate to say it but - 17.12.2003

We told you so. Empty rhetoric is how the new (alleged) spam laws have been described. What possible motive can they have for all the expense of creating a law that is as much use as a chocolate fireguard ? Gross dereliction of duty we call it.

Fake Bankers Draft – 16.12.2003

This is an old scam that has re-emerged. Popular many years ago and flagged heavily on TV consumer programmes which may have made life uncomfortable for the criminals involved. So, if you sell your flue gas analyser because there is still no British Standard as promised (almost) by Corgi for the end of this year, arrange for the buyer to meet you in your bank who can then check the draft is kosher - Then report the FGA scam.

Highland Sting – 16.12.2003

The BBC reports yet another Nigerian / Advanced Fee Fraud Scam apparently operating from a real address in Scotland, they even set up a bona-fide business at Companies House. Be aware of this new and more sophisticated scam. The Nigerian authorities were recently reported as clamping down on these parasites as the frauds are damaging the country’s reputation. Interesting reading.

Condensing Buses – 16.12.2003

Makes a change from Condensing Boilers but London transport have their own answer to those. Complete with pluming these buses produce even less CO2.

Product Focus – 15.12.2003

No. 5 is now online and features a clever Powerflushing Circulator Pump Adaptor. Those of you on our mailing list will have received a copy of the original newsletter. NEW direct links now to an updated CPIITM page in Product Focus 5.

The ACS II Work Experience Riddle – 12.12.2003

We wrote to the Minister of State for Work on two issues related to the new work experience requirements. The only reason we wrote is because reasonable efforts to obtain information through normal channels failed completely. We hit a brick wall in every direction Comment 48

MPS – 10.12.2003

We have now added the Mailing Preference Service to the Telesales (Preference Service) page. It will not stop the Nigerian Scams as they now use email. Warning, your paper recycling bin or bag may lose weight.

Share Fraud – 09.12.2003

New scam reported on the BBC Website (Business) involving overseas con artists posing as brokers who pocket fees. We received a raft of calls over a few days from the USA and I pretended to be interested in order to obtain the information promised, which I could then pass on to the authorities. Now on our scam list.

The ACS II Fiasco – 08.12.2003

Squabbling continues in the pages of H&V News, on the extraordinary fiasco that has followed in the wake of the most recent Gas Safety Review. No one with the best interests of competence, safety and consumer protection could argue with the spirit of the changes but we have to sympathise with beleaguered training providers in re the crass way the changes have arrived. It is time in our view for the National Audit Office to investigate the chaos – Comment 47

UKGIIN – 08.12.2003

From time to time people are resubmitting their email address perhaps fearing they have missed some important information. This is not a problem as duplicates are weeded out. We have not sent out any email under that heading and we hope it will not prove necessary. UKGIIN is essentially for emergencies only.

Democracy or Disgrace ? – 07.12.2003

Despite the best efforts of the HSE to curtail the activities of unsafe building sites this year, some factions of the administration do not seem convinced. The people clearly most at risk under this heading are denied what should now be regarded as a basic human right, to have trade union recognition in the work place. Sinister stuff in a TUC report. I know skilled people who have left the industry over fears for personal safety.

Editorial 60 – 07.12.2003

Superb letter from an Installer in H&V News this week. It also impressed the Editor as it made top-spot to letter of the week. He urges the EST to give installers credit for some intelligence and I would add that others in the industry should do the same more

Scams – 07.12.2003

Given the worrying increase in scams of all descriptions that can affect any one of us, we have decided to maintain a small section devoted to known references and links on the subject more

A Lesson from Aussie – 03.12.2003

On the heels of scams, rorts and rip-offs, they have grasped the nettle down-under on Industrial Manslaughter laws. UK government was quoted this week as saying "It is a symbol of our determination to rebalance the whole criminal justice system around the needs of the victim." But will this include Corporate Manslaughter or is it just more fine sounding empty rhetoric ?

Corgi Information – 03.12.2003

Corgi have announced some useful information in pdf files. Primarily aimed at consumers including landlords, there are also pdf files containing the annual report and financial report. We’ll include this link hither and yon in these pages as it should be useful in the future.

TGI Technical – 03.12.2003

The Library / TGI Technical has been updated to include references from the December 2003 / January 2004 edition.

More Scams – 03.12.2003

The BBC has flagged yet another scam wafting across the pond from Canada where they say 15 call centres are busy ripping people off. Why the authorities don’t bowl in and take them out is not stated. It is difficult to believe people could fall for such obvious rip-offs but they do. UK Government should note that the money concerned might otherwise have bolstered GDP. We are losing patience with the lack of justice for ordinary decent folk.

Corporate Responsibility – 02.12.2003

The Canadians have managed what we cannot by altering their criminal code to protect ordinary folk from reckless behaviour. The HSE have undoubtedly been pro-active this year in targeting dangerous building sites but we need to see corporate manslaughter on the statute books.

Rogue Traders Charter – 02.12.2003

Money Telegraph is running with details of the scary new rules on corporate insolvency, which will allow a bankrupt to be discharged in 12 months. No doubt there are genuine cases but the move will simply fuel the activities of Rogue Traders without any compensating measures. We will need to be even move vigilant who we trade with. Remember it is us and not Government who will lose out. We always lose the whole of what we have earned whereas Government may only lose a portion of what they have not earned. GDP rules OK, you don’t matter.

Kyoto et al – 01.12.2003

For those of you interested in climate issues Nature reports on the United Nations climate meeting which began today in Milan.

USA Telesales – 01.12.2003

Interesting story in news.telegraph concerning telesales parasites from the USA. Even more interesting is the new URL supplied for your enjoyment. The Telephone Preference Service has a superb website where you can register your preference not to receive telesales calls and submit a complaint against anyone ignoring the system. This applies to sole traders as well as individuals. The URL is now installed in the Library / Shared / Business.

About turn – 29.11.2003

More fisticuffs in H&V News this week. On 16.11.03 we ran with “Training Providers Challenge Corgi” and now we run with “Corgi Challenge Training Providers” - Editorial 59

SPAM Rules OK – 26.11.2003

Injustice has struck once again. Despite overwhelming world-wide condemnation of SPAM the UK Parliament has deliberately chosen a path which will offer no resistance to the virtual parasites that infest our computers on a daily basis. Political ambition transcends public opinion, thus as always absolute power corrupts absolutely – Editorial 58

PHPI – 17.11.2003

Seems we are not alone in being suspicious of the recent Which ? report covered by us in Comment 44 - November 2003 PHPI Viewpoint raises some valid comment also. more

And – 16.11.2003

On page 4 of H&V News a certain Mr Woodcock, who made his screen debut this year with Tony, is apparently incensed by the recently announced condensing (boiler) training more

Training Providers Challenge Corgi – 16.11.2003

Colourful if not strong language dominates the front page of H&V News (15.11.2003), above an article in which it is claimed Steven Wright, CEO Piper Assessments, describes the (ACS) changes as ‘absolutely stupid’. If that is not enough there is talk of ‘rebellion’ by training providers and ‘looking into possible breaches of human rights’. Hot air and clutching at straws no doubt but it flags the anger felt, whatever the motive – Editorial 57

Dictionary of Units – 14.11.2003

We promised some time ago to deliver a list of useful data. In support of that and other research we have sourced a superb Dictionary of Units hosted at Exeter University. Scroll down the page and try the Conversion Calculators. If what you are looking for is not there then presumably you have arrived from another planet. Now listed in the short cuts column, please take a visit

TGI Technical – 13.11.2003

The Library TGI Technical has been updated to include November 2003.

Feature 13 – 10.11.2003

We have now uploaded Feature 13 entitled Energy Efficiency Installer Certificate. This gives a useful overview, as provided by the Energy Saving Trust. We will have to update other sections, particularly training more here

Editorial 56 – 09.11.2003

More peremptory rhetoric headlines H & V News this week, in an unfortunate and seriously misleading article which includes the caption ‘Act now or miss out, fitters warned’ more

Feature 13 (Pending) – 04.11.2003

We have decided to create a new Feature to incorporate the information supplied by the Energy Saving Trust in the Press Pack referred to below. Given the significance of this initiative, a stand alone Feature is justified and is something we can refer to as the programme is rolled out in the new year. We will need to cross reference from other sections of the website and all that takes time.

EST News – 03.11.2003

ENERGY EFFICIENCY INSTALLER CERTIFICATE UNVEILED – Gas-News has received a press release and press pack. The press release is online in our EST Focus section. More information will be supplied once we have got to grips with the press-pack more

Comment 46 – 03.11.2003

“Why Underfloor Heating” is the title of Comment 46, provided by an industry system designer and supplier.

New Acronym – 29.10.2003

We have received news of a press briefing on the LAUNCH OF THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INSTALLER CERTIFICATE (EEIC), due to take place in London on Monday. No doubt that will be followed by rapturous applause then presumably the 70 000 referred to can be located and trained by April 2005. There is manifestly a problem with the figures but as the spirit of the thing is sound we’ll just hope that as many as possible can benefit.

Never Never Land – 26.10.2003

An extraordinary story in H&V News this week with the strap line ‘DEFRA programme to train 70,000 installers by 2005’ and the headline ‘Government blitz on boiler training’. How on earth could they print such a crass story. Even if they could deliver the 70 000, that is not the problem. Anyone could fit a condensing boiler; they are no different at all except in name. No mention of Part L again but we’re writing to the Rt Hon Member concerned to correct their perception of reality. We can’t sit back any longer and watch these amateurs ruin our industry. We’re working today but more later hopefully.

SVQ and ACS – 21.10.2003

We are hearing some concern from people worried about being disadvantaged by changes in progress. Too early to say at the moment as we do not yet have enough facts on which to base a judgment. However if anyone discovers they are adversely affected then please let us know. Needless to say, anyone who starts a prescribed course must be allowed to finish it in the form which was presented to them at the outset. Common decency and could be a human rights issue. If you have not yet clicked on UKGIIN this might be a good time to do so, in case an Issue kicks off.

EST News – 21.10.2003

NEW INDUSTRY TRAINING PROGRAMME is the title of the latest mailshot from the Energy Saving Trust and what we’ve been waiting for more

Energy Options – 21.10.2003

Neat little resume on energy options in this BBC report.

P = Pollution not Philanthropy – 19.10.2003

We’ve been saying it long enough but it does not seem to sink in. A poignant lesson here for HMG and the Energy Saving Trust. The last sentence of this BBC report neatly captures the reality of 21st century life in the UK.

Asbestos and Plumbers – 19.10.2003

Her Majesty’s Government has the singularly bad habit of creating regulations then failing to communicate that information to the people who will ultimately have to pick up the tab for the effects of regulation - Comment 45

Comment 44 – 16.10.2003

PHAM News (Volume 41 Number 10 October 2003) leads with the headline Gas installers slammed by consumer mags report, although there was no evidence in the article to suggest they had made even a perfunctory check to see if the report was scientifically safe more

EST News – 15.10.2003

Another newsletter from the EST in EST Focus opposite. Called Clear view for Windows we nearly binned it as spam. As the EST has a newsletter we have included that in our Trade Newsletters list (scroll down on short cuts column).

Site Updates – 14.10.2003

We have created a new section in the Library / Professionals to house the ACS change details. That information should be future proof and can be built on. The information is that contained in Comments 42 and 43 but may be more readily accessed by new visitors in the Library. There is also a link opposite in the short cuts column.

Nearly forgot to mention it but we have included a list of water undertakings in the Library / Shared Files under Government, for your future information.

DHPTE – 13.10.2003

Last call for the Domestic Heating and Plumbing Trades Exhibition in West Bromwich on Wednesday. Their website is still showing last year’s dates but the current calendar has been verified. Never been to one so if anyone is going and would like to write it up, we’d be pleased to hear. See events.

Broken Link – 13.10.2003

Reviewing Feature 8 for a consumer we routinely checked the links and noted a broken one. Our fault that. It was the crucial GIL 59, affectionately known as CHeSS and one of the most important PDF downloads. The companion downloads GPG 301 and GPG 302 is now counted in the hundreds, being hugely popular. The downloads page link is OK. You can download the pdf file GIL 59 here (Central Heating System Specifications Year 2002). A must-have for RGI and Consumers alike.

Comment 43 – 12.10.2003

Re-assessment process and changes to initial ACS is a press release from Corgi and has been clipped and pasted verbatim in Comment 43.

Comment 42 – 12.10.2003

Changes to ACS Entry Criteria is a press release from Corgi and has been clipped and pasted verbatim in Comment 42. Dated 03.10.2003 but there is more to follow.

About Gas-News.co.uk – 12.10.2003

A few days ago we received an email from someone specifically asking what Gas-News is all about. As always the email was acknowledged and it was suggested the new visitor click on About then let us know if that did not answer their question – Editorial 55 examines the question.

Corgi Registrations – 11.10.2003

We take a peek at the Corgi Annual Report 2003 Installer Guide. Initially the Corgi Registration figures which make interesting reading in Comment 41.

Editorial 54 – 10.10.2003

Humble and brief resume of PHEX (Manchester) 2003 but it is a difficult act to follow more

TGI Technical – 10.10.2003

The Library TGI Technical has now been updated to include references from the latest October edition of TGI.

PHEX Manchester – 06.10.2003

Last call for PHEX Manchester which kicks off this Wednesday at the Man United FC ground. It may be early days but the line-up for Interbuild 2004 is far from impressive at the moment. New entrants are reminded PHEX is one not to be missed.

Comment 40 – 05.10.2003

I promised myself some respite on energy efficiency issues but it was not to be. We seem to be stuck in an endless loop of rhetoric. Time to introduce that famous one-liner from Eli Wallach in The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. “If you’re gonna shoot, then shoot – don’t talk”: It must be clear by now that Government will have to incentivise energy efficiency one way or another more

Editorial 53 – 03.10.2003

However reluctantly, we assert that Benchmark must adapt or die. Times have changed and so must Benchmark if it is to retain the goodwill of Installers. Benchmark is optional. So is our goodwill – Editorial 53

Promote – 02.10.2003

As hinted at on the Discussion Board we have reviewed the Promote page (pages now) in the light of experience since the idea was launched more

Benchmark – 02.10.2003

As part of the ongoing ‘radical’ website changes at the Heating and Hot Water Information Council (HHIC), the Benchmark bit has seen a significant facelift which enables us to devote this Comment to the subject to give it an enduring presences in our pages more

Gas Analysers – 01.10.2003

You may all remember (yawn) that in April 2001 the Gas Installer magazine (TGI) promised us that BS 7967 was ‘heading towards being finalised’ when in fact that was clearly not the case. It was still not the case in December last year when Gas-News spoke to an authoritative source at the BSI.

TGI promised us recently we would see BS 7967 at last, this year. We hope they are right. You can monitor the situation yourself now at the GSE/30/-/21 Committee but thus far their home page does not promise much and (according to the home page) was last updated on 16.03.2000.

But why is the membership list restricted when we are supposed to have open.gov ?

Part J (Scotland) – 01.10.2003

The free energy efficiency seminars for Scotland (Part J and beyond) are now in Events above. East Kilbride and Inverness. Same model as the one I attended but tailored to suit the subtle (and some not so subtle) cross border differences.

Roundup – 01.10.2003

Updates and an industry quote more

Promote-Closed – 30.09.2003

Another email has gone out and this time a Fwd Email from Reliance Water Controls with a host of training information on. We have sent off for their training CD and when that arrives we’ll install links in the appropriate places for future visitors. To join the list click on mailing lists under short cuts.

As our top line mentions plumbing and heating as well as gas we’ll set up a new area under training for other relevant training besides those listed on buttons. RWC have a lot of training information and PDF downloads. For our new entrants RWC are top-drawer and must-see products. They include good information on expansion vessels and underfloor heating.

Roundup – 28.09.2003

A roundup of recent goings on here, which include a warm welcome to a new link in our RGI Websites section. Please pay a visit to one of our colleagues in Eire, where they also endure the rigours of being Corgi registered more

Editorial 52 – 28.09.2003

We examine the growing menace of Illegal and Unqualified Workers making a laughing stock of the authorities and their alleged concern for professionalism in the industry.

Product Focus – 27.09.2003

Down to earth as always we’ve dug an interesting topic from our eco-vault for inclusion in the new Training Section. If anyone wants one built we can be found in contacts.

Whilst in that section you may wish to review the first item from the Norstrom stable. I may have missed it before but there are some superb pdf files on the subject.

Today – 26.09.2003

A round up of today’s events.

The new Training Section (first draft) is now online in the Library and accessible from the Product Training Plus link in the short cuts column of the home page. It’s been tested thoroughly but so was the Titanic. Please report any problems. Don’t get your tools out or send nasty emails to Bill Gates. Chances are I’ve screwed up (again).

We have a new listing in the RGI web pages section. Admire it and get one yourself.

Dug up some gas history today in product focus. A bit of nostalgia for the grey beards.

Promote-Closed List – 25.09.2003

We have just forwarded a promote-closed email to all those who placed themselves on the list. It was a newsletter from Comap and as it happens an interesting one. Some issues have arisen from that more

RGI Websites – 25.09.2003

Long overdue, we have created the promised-in-the-past pages to handle RGI websites. Individuals or companies, one page or fifty pages it does not matter. Take a peek at RGI Websites.

EST News – 24.09.2003

More news from the Energy Saving Trust. As the EST campaign is clearly gaining momentum it has been decided to make the news items available on an ongoing basis for future personal research purposes more

CHP – 21.09.2003

We have kick started the Combined Heat and Power section of the Library (Lib / Pro / Dir) with the new micro-CHP from Baxi Technologies UK, which is part of the Baxi Group more

Product Focus – 21.09.2003

Time we stimulated this section and have now done that with the Elson Emergency Hot Water solution. Rediscovered during Library research and housekeeping this may be of interest to new entrants. Click on Product Focus. Contributions from visitor stalwarts would be welcomed.

Site Updates – 21.09.2003

We’re busy doing some housekeeping at the moment in the Library and have updated both the heat producing appliances and hot water sections.

Commercial Innovation – 20.09.2003

Don’t expect too much but it would be ungracious of me not to acknowledge a pleasant event hosted by both Grundfos pumps and Plumbcenter at the Manchester United football club (19.09.2003), which of course has become home to the annual PHEX show in the North West more

Powerflush Clarification – 17.09.2003

For the avoidance of doubt powerflush training is a viable option for new industry entrants on the ACS ladder more

Powerflush Training – 16.09.2003

We have a known date for Powerflush Training next month. Details on the Powerflushing page linked under Short Cuts on your right.

PHEX season – 16.09.2003

The hugely successful PHEX shows launch a new season next month, starting in Manchester. New entrants are especially reminded that these shows are Installer focused and an Aladdin’s cave for information and contacts. You can click on Events above at any time to drop down the list of dates and venues. Register on line and a nosebag is included for free more

Editorial 51 – 15.09.2003

We take one last look at the energy efficiency cause. If the penny has not dropped by now then it surely never will. We argue that vanity not altruism drives the population and it is that which needs to be exploited: Address the people, not those who serve the people.

Website – 15.09.2003

Better late than never the posh new Norstrom website is online. We’ll see if we can find that gadget for lifting and shifting condensate from condensing boilers.

Manchester Job Fair – 15.09.2003

We are advised that the Manchester Job Fair event scheduled for next month has been cancelled owing to lack of exhibitor support. Emap Construct are hoping to re-schedule for 2004. The London event scheduled for November will still go ahead and is linked in Events above. I wonder if it is too late for industry to rescue the bid ? If you want to try then contact Emap.

Carrots and Sticks – 14.09.2003

We look at the issues of unregistered gas installers and the industry unsafe procedure in Comment 38. Views welcomed as always on the Discussion Board.

Businessmen Behaving Badly – 14.09.2003

One of our avid researchers has dug up a gem of a website on Health and Safety. It is highly acclaimed and not for the meek. Don’t click here if you are of nervous disposition. Corporate manslaughter is still a bad joke.

Energy Efficiency Week – 12.09.2003

Time for yours truly to shut up and put up. The EST will be launching an aggressive campaign on a number of fronts later this month, according to their press release received today. There is also info about Installer training to look forward to. New entrants are advised to take a hard look as it is as much their future opportunities being discussed more

Power to the People – 10.09.2003

It is reported in PHAM News that Vaillant are about to launch a ‘TV campaign to back Government energy stance’ more

PHAM – 10.09.2003

Checking back we have not mentioned that PHAM News now has a posh website as of May this year. Those of you in the trade who have not already done so, can now sign up online for your free copy.

ACS 2003 changes – 09.09.2003

We have introduced a temporary link (on your left) to The Gas Place website, while the new ACS details unfold. Handy link and handy reminder.

CHPA – 08.09.2003

Better late than never ? A bit negligent on our part but we’ve only just introduced the Combined Heat and Power Association in the Library / Professionals / Directory / Organisations section. CHPA website.

Asbestos Question – 07.09.2003

Curious comment from a County Council spokesperson in a BBC News report relating to a factory fire. It is claimed “The (Ed – Asbestos) dust has settled, it's not airborne and people are only really in danger if they are exposed to it over a prolonged period." – That is not what we have been led to believe, so who is right ?

New ACS assessment update – 05.09.2003

The Gas Place now has details of the New ACS Assessment. A must see for anyone working in gas or intending to work in gas.

HSE – 05.09.2003

Strong equestrian flavour to H&V News this week (06.09.2003) and Barry Watkinson (HSE) is on his high horse in re comments made about ACS in an earlier edition more

Energy Efficiency Seminar – 02.09.2003

Not for the energy squeamish, Comment 37 reviews the Energy Efficiency Seminar held at UMIST Manchester 02.09.2003. As we see it, the whole industry is ready to roll out energy efficiency. The challenge now is for the Government to encourage the population to adopt the measures. The media and merchants could clearly do a lot more.

MERCi – 03.09.2003

For anyone wishing to go the whole nine yards on energy conservation and related issues, the Manchester based MERCi has much to offer. It shows what can be done when energy conservation is put before GDP.

TGI Technical – 03.09.2003

The TGI Technical section of the Library has been updated to include references to the September technical articles, for your future research.

Energy Efficiency Seminar – 02.09.2003

Had a superb day today thoroughly engrossed in an EST sponsored Energy Efficiency Seminar. Delivered by two top-drawer specialists from industry, there was much to learn and the day seemed to pass in minutes. I would strongly advise media editors to drop in and emulate the ‘Integrated Approach’ strategy (which I’ve been banging on about before) in their pages as soon as possible. Plenty of time to enrol, just click on events above. More on this in a couple of days.

Issue 7 – 01.09.2003

For the record Issue 7 (powerflush) has been brought up to date and concluded. The powerflush_exiles emailing list has been deleted from our mailing list as promised.

Powerflush Trademark – 01.09.2003

The Office for Harmonization in the Internal Markets (OHIM) now formally recognises the surrender of the ‘powerflush’ trademark so hopefully we can close this issue sine die. Doubters can check for themselves at OHIM by entering the word ‘powerflush’ and selecting the second of two options on entry. A final powerflush_exiles email will be sent and that file will then be deleted.

Energy 2003 Show – 31.08.2003

A bit late in the day but it has only just landed on the desk. This two day event starts this week (3/9 and 4/9). Some familiar names in the line-up including the Baxi clean air technology which I’d like to explore when I get chance (Birmingham).

Comment 36 – 31.08.2003

Following up the H&V News thread on cowboy customers, Comment 36 offers chapter and verse on the subject.

Mailing List – 30.08.2003

We’ve just sent out our first forwarded email to the promote-closed emailing list, which is a newsletter (the first) from the well known Reliance Water Controls. A good opportunity to test the system, which has worked. Visitors may subscribe or unsubscribe at any time 24/7 in Mailing Lists.

H & V News – 29.08.2003

The H&V News train now leaving this platform calls at Preston, Debtorsville, Selkirk, Scalding and Darlington - free ticket here

Trademark Lark – 28.08.2003

Gas-News has learned that Community Trade Mark ‘powerflush’ formerly owned by British Gas has been officially surrendered as of this date. Accordingly proceedings are now being withdrawn.

Seems to be a good year for trade marks, following powerflush and the recent Nestle nonsense, the BBC website has coughed up yet another superb trademark story.

Site Status – 28.08.2003

As the Discussion Board is now hosted on the Gas-News server we no longer need the Site Status page and have deleted it.

Discussion Board – 27.08.2003

The Discussion Board has now been successfully installed on the Gas-News.co.uk server and the backup files transferred. Please bookmark the new URL http://www.gas-news.co.uk/cgi-bin/discus/discus.cgi.

Powerflush Training – 27.08.2003

There will be a free training day at Norstrom Group in Wigan on Saturday 30th August, please phone for places on this course. Starts at 10am and runs through until 2pm, with the opportunity to purchase products at the end with incentives.

Chris Skelton
Norstrom Group Limited
Tel. 01942 722677
Fax. 01942 271316
E-mail: chrisskelton@norstrom.co.u

Discussion Board – 25.08.2003

We expect to upgrade the Discussion Board to the latest Pro 4 version in the next few days. To avoid any problems we are asking the program developers to install the new software on the server.

The Discussion Board is currently hosted at our former website regainuk.org but will be moved to the gas-news.co.uk web host when the upgrade is made.

This will mean loss of service for a few hours but we will give advance warning of that both on the Discussion Board and on the home page.

Once installed we can re-write the user-guide and make available password retrieval, as well as other features. The thousands of postings we currently store will not be lost.

Energy Consternation – 24.08.2003

Our Editorial 50 takes a look at where we are up to.

HHIC Registration – 24.08.2003

We have learned that the Hotwater and Heating Information Council (nee CHIC) are creating a new register of Installers following the demise of the EST Installer network more

EST Statement – 22.08.2003

The Energy Saving Trust have now published a statement [EST TO SUPPORT INDUSTRY- LED ENERGY EFFICIENCY TRAINING] which we have installed as Comment 35 so the valuable information will remain accessible to visitors as time goes on.

EST News – 21.08.2003

We have been informed by the Energy Saving Trust today that a statement will be issued on the Installer Network and Best Practice Course matters. We have altered our reference to the Installer Network below. We have substituted the word Axed for Collapse. Discontinuation of the scheme was apparently a ‘strategic’ decision.

Best Practice Woes – 20.08.2003

We have written to the Energy Saving Trust but they are evidently not yet in a position to reply we assume. An email was sent to the website press office yesterday. .. more

New Forum – 20.08.2003

Actually it is not new but we have rediscovered the IDHE forum and that is now linked under the Debate button above. Well worth a visit to the website, which sports a nifty boiler sizing utility.

EST Installer Network Axed

The Energy Saving Trust seems to have run out of energy. Despite being on their mailing list for Press information we have received nothing to inform us of their website posting which announced the closure of their (entire ?) Installer network on June 30 2003. The Press page also appears to be woefully out of date.

You may recall that at one time it was necessary to attend a Best Practice Course (which we continue to recommend to any Installer) AND be a member of a PIO (as it was called) in order to get on the Installer Network. Gas-News predicted the EST would (have to) drop the latter requirement and such proved to be the case.

No explanation is offered for the closure of the network, which invites speculation. It was not cheap being on the network and the unavoidable bureaucracy no doubt added to the burden. There may also have been a time-wasters element according to our sources.

As we have always said, anyone who is any good will have more than enough work. Energy efficiency is, always has been and will always continue to be a commendable and indeed essential ambition but lay perceptions of the real world continue to thwart progress.

Gas Detection – 19.08.2003

An interesting snippet from BBC News promises a new invention that could render the now familiar gas sniffer redundant.

SAP 2001 – 18.08.2003

Another 396K pdf file for insomniacs in the form of the The Government’s Standard Assessment Procedure for Energy Rating of Dwellings. Interesting reading if you’re interested in the subject of energy conservation. Much safer than sleeping pills if you’re not. See Downloads section.

HETAS – 17.08.2003

While we are on the subject of bodies, HETAS is the official body recognised by government to Approve solid fuel domestic heating appliances, fuels and services.

Questions – 17.08.2003

We are awash with organisations and schemes. If there is something you are vague about by all means email to see if we can research and publish a clarification – Privacy assured.

FENSA – 17.08.2003

You must all have heard of FENSA by now but we have installed the PDF file from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in the Downloads section (see short cuts). Modest PDF file and worth a read if you want an overview of energy efficiency matters in glazing (replacement windows).

Reminder – 14.08.2003

Should not be necessary with the current serious virus outbreak information reported at the BBC News website but we have successfully used AVG Anti-Virus for over two years and some time ago installed the pro version. We update twice daily. Once automatically overnight and once manually, which takes seconds. There is also a useful freeware firewall available from Zone-Labs though we now have the Zone Alarm Pro 4 installed.

Free Energy Efficiency Seminars – 13.08.2003

PHAM News reports free energy efficiency seminars for Installers on page 6. From the Energy Saving Trust, Energy Efficiency Best Practice in Housing (EEBPH) stable. EST website details suggest the seminars are aimed more at specifying professionals rather than Installer professionals but we have signed up for the first one and can report back. Click on Events for a list and links. Be warned that the EST website is becoming more and more laborious as well as confusing.

Comment 34 – 12.08.2003

We focus on the focus group last night. Recruitment, image and boilers covered in one neat little package as Comment 34

Editorial 49 – 10.08.2003

We amble around the subject of modern boilers.

Powerflush – 08.08.2003

For the record the PowerflushTM vanished today from the BG website. It will be a while yet before it appears ‘surrendered’ at OHIM which is beyond the control of BG.

Downloads – 07.08.2003

Anyone suffering from insomnia with the weather may wish to know we have installed the Energy White Paper and Approved Document J (2002 edition) in the Downloads section. PDF files from the DTI and ODPM respectively.

Consumers – 07.08.2003

We have introduced a new energy saving page in the Consumers section. This also links the EST save-energy website which is more focused on Householders. The latter provides local links and grant information from time to time via an interactive facility.

DHPTE Series – 06.08.2003

Another string of dates for your diary in Events above. The Heating and Plumbing DHPTE series continues from September 17 at the Millennium Stadium. A range of shows that reach parts which others do not. Their website has not yet caught up with their own dates but the email addresses work.

Selkirk Hopes – 05.08.2003

According to a BBC story it seems there may be hope yet for the well known but troubled Selkirk Manufacturing Limited.

Trade Promotion – 05.08.2003

We have created a mailing list section for people who elect to subscribe themselves for bona-fide trade information. The ‘Advertisers’ link on the right hand side delivers the page concerned. Strictly opt-in as is and always will be our policy.

This is not a back door route to commercialisation but we do receive some good information you may wish to see from time to time. No one can ever access your email address directly under any circumstances. The process is automated.

UKGIIN – 04.08.2003

We have revised the logo to make it more versatile. It is now more compact and lends itself to being enlarged or reduced. Interestingly UKGIIN is now showing up at Google already though obviously it only delivers Gas-News.co.uk.

Events – 04.08.2003

Another Toolfair has been slotted in.

PHEX stops next in Manchester early October and you can register online anytime. The PHEX website message is firmly targeted at mainstream installers. Sadly there is not currently a list of exhibitors available ?

A word of caution – Interbuild 2004 is scheduled for April and there is an impressive new interactive website you can interrogate. It may be early days but the line-up of our popular manufacturers is not much in evidence yet (?)

New Virus – 04.08.2003

BBC news is running with a story on a new virus disguised as a windows support message. Our AVG anti-virus has already updated.

Powerflush Training – 01.08.2003

The Norstrom Group have added their name to the Powerflushing (Training) list shown opposite. The Norstrom website is being refurbished but an email address is still available online for enquiries, therefore it is business as usual. Powerflush training is free at Wigan (Greater Manchester) but events can be organised anywhere for 20 or more people.

HPM – 01.08.2003

The first industry journal to break the hardcopy media fast and run with the ‘powerflush’ CTM story is Heating and Plumbing Monthly (HPM). See page 4. Intrepid stuff from Chris Thornett the new editor and comforting to know we have not been deserted.

Starter Pack – 31.07.2003

We have now developed a one page starter pack for people who wish to adopt the UKGIIN protocol. Once we see the idea being utilised we will register the domain ukgiin.co.uk to protect the acronym.

UKGIIN – 28.07.2003

In view of the superb response (thanks) we have reorganised the UKGIIN pages as it will now be permanent. The acronym now represents United Kingdom Gas Industry Independent Network as there are others besides Installers who may be affected, as we witnessed recently.

UKGIIN – 27.07.2003

We have now developed and launched this new network initiative as promised below. Click on the new icon above or text opposite for full details. It would be nice to hear your views on this scheme which is designed to be free standing and completely independent of us.

Powerflush – 27.07.2003

We would request and appreciate it if you contacted your MEPs (and anyone else) to call off the dogs at OHIM as the matter of the British Gas CTM ‘powerflush’ is now resolved, given that BG have ‘surrendered’ the CTM. OHIM were helpful and we don’t want to overload them.

We also wrote immediately to trade media that had previously responded. Not all did but we’ll deal with that at the inquest.

OHIM have confirmed it will be some time before a status change occurs on their website due to an admin backlog (which we all suffer from ?). We will monitor the situation daily and have diarised an Issue review date.

Plans are now in progress to develop a strategy to deal with any future emergency. That will include a regularly maintained database of people to lobby should the need arise. The CTM situation has superbly highlighted serious weaknesses in the media, associations and elsewhere. Let’s face it, Installers are out on a limb.

We need to set up our own network to correct the deficiencies noted. No need for committees, pen-pushers or annual fees. The simple answer is a mutually held list of Installer websites to ensure a viable network is maintained if any one of us goes down. So if I get hit by a bus (or blue van) the show goes on. More on this again but if anyone wants to start a dialogue then please email and we’ll set something up.

Talk of the devil – 26.07.2003

Corporate greed rises to the fore once again and this time in the confectionery business, as an old giant grapples for dominance over our words in every day use. However the industry dos not seem to suffer from the ineffectual wimps that plague the gas industry and hitherto have claimed to be our guardian angels more

Product Training – 25.07.2003

This seems like an appropriate time to introduce a page linking companies offering powerflushing training (opposite). There are others offering products (see Library). If you hear of any more please let us know (companies or colleges).

Library Update – 25.07.2003

The Library (TGI Technical) has now been updated to include the latest technical article references.

TGI July / August 2003 – 25.07.2003

For a change of scene Comment 33 takes a look inside the Gas Installer magazine

Windows Alert – 24.07.2003

BBC News reports a significant risk in Microsoft Windows if any of you are not aware of it. We have now installed the latest Critical Update which is a one minute patch. Recommend you download now.

TGI July/August 2003 – 24.007.2003

An interesting Gas Installer magazine this month (isn’t it always ?) and at long last it seems we can look forward to the British Standard for Flue Gas Analysis before the end of 2003. Of particular interest is action taken against a tenant for persistent refusal to allow access for Landlord’s Gas Safety Check – more later

It’s over – 21.07.2003

We are pleased to report that British Gas have taken the bold decision to ‘surrender’ the Community Trade Mark 2491819 (powerflush). Details in the latest Issue 7 newsletter.

Comment 32 – 19.07.2003

Condensing or non condensing – News from the front. Comment 32 takes a light hearted look at the current debate in H & V News.

Powerflush_Exiles Newsletter – 18.07.2003

Now published and delivered.. Copy newsletter is installed in Issue 7.

Down the pan ? – 18.07.2003

Not exactly flushed with success at the moment according to H&V News (July 12 page 3) due to ‘waning membership’, one eagle-eyed former devotee spotted a reference to ‘flushing’ in the current pages of ‘Plumbing Magazine’, the IOP journal. Alas it was only toilet flushing.

Winds of Change – 15.07.2003

For those interested in renewables like us, the BBC News has details of an ambitious project designed to top up our wind farm energy production significantly. more

Editorial 48 – 15.07.2003

We examine the powerflush fiasco in Editorial 48. Although still at the penultimate phase of our quest, the psychology of the matter will not change.

Powerflush_Exiles Newsletter – 12.07.2003

Now published and delivered hither and yon. Copy newsletter is installed in Issue 7.

Interim Report – 09.07.2003

Issue 7 is updated following the decision by British Gas to withdraw their threat of proceedings from one company. We welcome their decision but there is much damage to repair.

Interim Report – 06.07.2003

Issue 7 is updated with our interim report.

Update – 05.07.2003

As an aside to the Issue 7, we have introduced a consumer information page.

Not only but also – 04.07.2003

No rest for the wicked. Page 2 of H & V News leads with a story about British Gas being fined £ 200 000 by Ofgem. Ofgem said the case was a clear abuse of the rule surrounding the position of customers in debt.

Comment 31 – 04.07.2003

We examine the case for unfair trading against British Gas with their new ‘powerflush’ trademark.

Anti-Virus – 01.07.2003

No one should need any reminders that anti-virus software is now more important than it ever was. We have always used AVG with impeccable results and earlier this year upgraded to professional so we could pay for the excellent service we’ve had. Their free version is still available for anyone who has not got around to it.

ACS changes – 30.06.2003

Some welcome and long overdue changes reported at thegasplace. Short but sweet. Visit strongly recommended. A bit of common sense has been applied and that should slow the exodus of registered gas installers.

Safety – 30.06.2003

We heard a radio report over the weekend that the HSE have been pro-active in early June and issued stop notices on a large number of (300) construction sites. We cannot confirm the report through the usual media links. Prevention is better than an inquest. Well done HSE.

Issue 7 – 30.06.2003

This has now gone live on the British Gas ‘powerflush’ trademark scandal, given the volume of interest and imperative need to alert others who may arrive at the news late.

Powerflush II – 29.06.2003

To update everyone on the Powerflush saga, we have now created a ‘powerflush-exiles’ mailing list drawn from internet sources. That is to say sites which include the expression ‘powerflush’. Ironically we’ve not seen one yet which includes BG (?)

An open letter has been sent (as bcc copies) summarising the situation thus far in case any of those people have received a legal threat over their use of the term ‘powerflush’. We have already had responses, which is encouraging.

Powerflush – 26.06.2003

This is a message to British Gas to let them know that we ‘Powerflush’ heating systems. We advertise that we ‘Powerflush’ heating systems and will continue to ‘Powerflush’ heating systems and continue to advertise that we ‘Powerflush’ heating systems.

British Gas have been bullying Kamco Limited. British Gas applied to register the expression ‘Powerflush’ as a trade mark in December 2001. In December 2003 the trade mark was granted.

The expression ‘Powerflush’ is actually ‘Prior Art’. Proof ? Aside from the fact that everyone and his dog in the industry knows it is ‘Prior Art’, that expression was registered almost two years earlier both in the UK and the USA. Proof ? Click on:

http://www.powerflush.co.uk AND http://www.powerflush.com and see where that leads. No not British Gas but Kamco Limited.

Why are British Gas trying to pass themselves off as Kamco Limited ?

Public Liability Scam – 25.06.2003

The BBC News website is running with a story on a major insurance scam in Northern Ireland affecting public liability insurance - full story

Commercial Bullying ? – 24.06.2003

The well known and respected KAMCO has published a statement on their website concerning an approach by British Gas lawyers over use of the term ‘Powerflush’.

It seems British Gas applied in December 2001 to register the word ‘Powerflush’ as a trademark and the trademark was granted in March 2003.

An extraordinarily absurd situation as the terms ‘Powerflushing, Powerflush and Power Flushing etc’ are generic and have been in popular use, throughout the industry, for many years in precisely the same context. A word-search on our own Discussion Board confirms that.

Kamco have written to various people, including trade magazines to highlight their concern. We will be doing the same, as we also use the expression and will continue to do so.

Let us know if you hear of any more shenanigans under this heading. It is difficult to comprehend such a blatant attempt to stifle fair trade in this day and age.

We feel sure there will be more on this issue and indeed it may become the third British Gas Issue in our Issues Section.

(see right hand column on KAMCO website)

TGI Technical – 15.06.2003

This section of the Library (Professionals) has now been compiled to include June 2003.

DHPTE – 25.03.2003

We have additional and revised dates for the various Domestic Heating and Plumbing Trade Events in our Events section. It is also now possible to register online.

Editorial 47 – 22.02.2003

We’ve compiled a list for your amusement. The challenge, if there is one, is to determine the odd one out. Our list includes, television, toaster, washing machine, computer, vacuum cleaner, fitted kitchen, tumble drier, family car, boiler, microwave, stereo, bathroom, DVD, gas fire, laminate floor, coffee maker, dish washer, lawn mower - more

Combi-User – 16.02.2003

We have provided some basic information for Consumers pertaining to combination boilers. This is not intended to be a trouble-shooting guide, more a trouble avoiding guide. It is a response to some basic misconceptions witnessed often.

Energy Consternation – 15.02.2003

Do as we say, not as we do. So much for Part L (J) as Her Majesty’s Government scraps the target for renewables according to the BBC news website.

Institute of Plumbing – 15.02.2003

The IOP have a stunning new website which they should be congratulated on. Of particular interest is the prominent section on membership details which hopefully will be seen as welcoming and encourage more to join. Don’t just let the future happen, try to influence it for the better.

Issue 6 – 09.02.2003

We report on another issue involving certain elements of British Gas. This is not in any way a criticism of the many highly professional and honest engineers serving the public daily. However we cannot allow a blatant deception to pass without mention just because we risk being bullied by rogue elements of the regime in response. We know this is not an isolated case.

Hark, I hear the mighty cannons roar – 08.02.2003

No not war but the hitherto docile Andy Watts (CEO - Institute of Plumbing) who is reported in H & V News (front page) as peremptorily demanding compulsory registration for plumbers. I will allow that he probably did not demand anything but it is most encouraging to see a long overdue stand for professionalism. Keep that up and I might ask to be considered for membership myself.

Library – 06.02.2003

TGI Technical has been updated to include the February 2003 edition. Some interesting features including tightness testing (new homes) and Compliance reports which we have not yet looked at here.

Broadband – 06.02.2003

To help keep pace with growing demand, Gas-News.co.uk has migrated to BT Broadband. Website developments will continue as before so we stay lean and mean in the interests of those using standard modems. All visitors are important to us.

Silence is still golden – 05.02.2003

That training provider (Natural Gas Services Training) at Leeds have still had no word from GWINTO about amending their ACS details after numerous telephone calls and (in desperation) posting a request on the GWINTO message board (still there) one week ago.

We repeat that the prices quoted at GWINTO for the above company are out of synchronisation with reality, being significantly lower now. The website suggests GWINTO are ISO 9001 registered ?

They’re back – 05.02.2003

We assume they’ve been in sunnier climes living on immoral earnings (your money) but the telesales teams are back in force. The first Nigerian scam email of the season has also arrived so beware of these people. I find it difficult to believe anyone could fall for it but some do, motivated by greed.

H & V News – 03.02.2003

Stern stuff in this cutting edge journal that deserves further mention. Poor British Gas are again in the thick of it and not surprisingly, there is a back-lash on the subject of one day ACS re-assessments. The boot is firmly on the other foot now in Comment 30.

Gas-Shield – 03.02.2003

Gas-Shield.com woes or should we say fiasco.

If you doubted my gibberish in Comment 28 (how dare you), consult the Heating and Plumbing Monthly (HPM) magazine on Page 5 of the January edition.

Would anyone like to set up a website called media-shield.com to help protect the industry from meddling amateurs ?

Survival of the fittest – 02.02.2003

Less than twelve months ago there were menacing noises starting to emerge in the trade press, presumably in an attempt to persuade compliant Installers to jump through hoops. If that was the motive, it clearly failed miserably. Current indications suggest there may be a surprise and wake-up call about to greet the social engineers who continue to ignore the ground swell of qualified opinion yet to address the 2003 ACS deadline .. Editorial 46

GWINTO – 02.02.2003

The GWINTO Workforce Development Plan for the Gas and Water Industries 2002 – 2005 is now available in PDF format either at GWINTO or in our Downloads section. Shortcut here.

Silence is golden ? – 30.01.2003

One of the training providers has become a bit miffed with GWINTO and in a clever tactical move has resorted to posting their concern on the GWINTO Message Board. The bottom line is, do not trust their data relating to ACS Centres. Check first. One has seriously lower ACS charges but seem unable to communicate that fact to GWINTO.

Quote - I have contacted you on several occasions via phone to request that our prices be removed from your website as they are incorrect and bear no resemblance to our actual charges. Your site shows them as much higher than they actually are and this we believe may influence an operatives decision on which centres to contact. I would appreciate it if you could contact us on the above e-mail address regarding this important matter – Unquote

Remember, Natural Gas Services Training at Leeds have lower training prices.

I seem to recall reading some woe, woe and thrice woe stuff about ACS price hikes a while back. Perhaps I was mistaken ?

Old Stuff – 29.01.2003

As promised we’ve dug out the gritty stuff from RUK and that is now online in the Library. If you can’t sleep have a read. There is actually some interesting reading there for the long evenings.

Broadband – 29.01.2003

Gas-News.co.uk will switch to Broadband next week. That will permit brisk housekeeping on the Discussion Board and ease both upgrading and relocation of the Discussion Board when it is moved to webfusion alongside the website.

APHC – 29.01.2003

The Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors have recently launched their new website. There is a members only area and for a short time only you can access that using the user ID and password ‘aphc’ to enable you to have a look around. Incidentally the APHC bi-monthly magazine ‘Bulletin’ is now listed in the Library and boasts a 16000 circulation.

Rogue Traders – 27.01.2003

The intrepid Manchester Evening News is swamped with news of Maple Industries who star in this week’s Rogue Traders, Thursday at 8.30. Not noted for hanging around the M.E.N. are now en-route to the Trade and Industry Secretary as their years of effort in favour of consumers seem to fall on deaf ears. For the few there should be a gas motif.

An eminent German legal theorist recently commented “Of course you have no corruption in the UK. Your establishment makes up the rules as it goes along”: Sound familiar ?

Safety Notice – 27.01.2003

Caradon Ideal Limited have issued a 24/7 hotline number 0870 129 8513 (notice you’ve got to pay ?) in support of a potential fault associated with some flue packs supplied with the Ideal mini C and mini S boiler ranges. May affect all Ideal mini C and mini S standard flue B packs and vertical outlet kit flue packs installed since 25 March 2002.

Basically in a small number of cases the FGA test point plug may have gone AWOL or be loose. You can obtain electronic copies of the notice from 0870 849 8056 but you still got to pay.

Gas-Fires – 26.01.2003

We have introduced a single interim page on gas fires in the Consumers section. We have had emails off consumers who have bought what they thought was a ‘bigger’ fire only to be disappointed. We will ultimately give an overview of the broad types.

CHP – 24.01.2003

Combined Heat and Power of course. H&V News (January 25 2003 – Page 6) has an excellent article by Baxi on this rising star which promises a more energy efficient response to our needs. There is also interesting data on renewables throughout Europe. To obtain H&V News click here. Conveniently the energy efficiency benefits of underfloor heating are flagged on the opposite page

Comment 29 – 22.01.2003

We review the Flue Gas Analyser enigma and the timely cue supplied by British Gas in the form of their recent curious letter to the Sunday Telegraph more

FGA Comment – 22.01.2003

Subject to surviving the rigors of bullying internal critics we are ready to roll out this update which usefully coincides with that letter in the Sunday Telegraph from the MD of BG. Should be online tomorrow.

Spot the Rogue Trader – 21.01.2003

No we’re not talking about the BBC 1 slot on Thursday night at 8.30 when the ugly face of gas turns up in M13. One of our eagle-eyed visitors has spotted the star of last year’s show advertising on the official Corgi website. I mentioned it to an horrified TGI Editorial Assistant at one of the shows last year but they’re still around. What happened to consumer protection ?

Vocational Mainstream Education – 21.01.2003

The BBC is running an interesting story which points to a fundamental shift in education, which is presumably aimed at addressing the skills shortage and sewing the seeds for future generations of wealth producers. Visit the BBC.

British Gas and FGA – 21.01.2003

A fascinating letter from Mark Clare (Managing Director – British Gas) appeared in the Sunday Telegraph (January 19 2003 - page 28) and we believe unwittingly reveals a potentially controversial regime which exploits the illusory benefits of Flue Gas Analysis.

Superb timing as we were about to release a further comment on FGA and Mark Clare’s letter gives us an excellent platform to launch from later in the week.

Events – 17.01.2003

More dates for your diary in Events with the new list of Domestic Heating and Plumbing Trade Exhibitions. Football stadium venues of course and a small but impressive line up of exhibitors. It is time stored hot water boffins raised their profile ?

Consumers – 16.01.2003

We have now introduced the Boilers topic in the Consumers section. This provides a general overview only. A comment can be expected following the BBC 1 Rogue Traders programme, which was far superior to the amateurish production last week on the tarmac gangs. They should leave comedy to the professionals. Next week the gas rogues.

Inevitable – 15.01.2003

Despite the recent unedifying shenanigans in the trade press, our long since predicted outcome for the future of ACS seems to have finally arrived. Subject to ratification by the HSE, we understand all parties involved in the working group have finally reached a consensus – Editorial 45

Gas-News.co.uk – 15.01.2003

We are pleased to launch the new Gas-News.co.uk website which will unashamedly try to fill the vacuum created by the collective omission of other industry media. That is to say failure to consider Installers. Their monopoly is now ended. Hopefully others will be inspired to join in and generate more opportunities for Installers to be heard. There is no shortage of pen-pushers but there is a shortage of Installers.

BS 7967 – 06.01.2003