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Biofuels – 29.12.2004

Feeding cars, not people. The adoption of biofuels would be a humanitarian and environmental disaster – So argues George Monbiot. Sceptical ? Have a read and see what you think.

Bullying at Work – 28.12.2004

Trade Union Amicus has announced it is to take the lead in naming and shaming employers who do not tackle bullying in the work place. Something I have witnessed plenty of over the years, there seems to be endless talk but no action. According to a BBC report Amicus receive hundreds of complaints each year.

It should not be overlooked that bullying occurs at a personal level and is not necessarily corporate policy. Registered Gas Installers bullied into unsafe working practices should consider joining a Union, Trade or Professional Association.

Credit Card Ruling – 28.12.2004

A BBC report highlights a new risk to some credit card holders who make purchases abroad. Lloyds TSB, Tesco Personal Finance and American Express obtained a ruling from the High court in November, which effectively prevents claims where a purchase is unsatisfactory, faulty or a seller refuses compensation; You know what to do now.

Corporate Manslaughter – 24.12.2004

More delays on the important subject of Corporate Manslaughter according to a CCA Report. The excuse this time is the overdue departure of David Blunkett.

And not a happy Christmas for those who narrowly avoided loss of life in the Glasgow blast, who have the additional burden now of financial worries. Some lost limbs and are struggling to survive according to the Scotsman.com.

Premium Rate Scam – 24.12.2004

Useful report at the Guardian Unlimited on the sinister premium rate scams which have cost many people a great deal of money. Nothing to do with people being caught by personal greed, the clever net dialing scam exploits dial-up accounts without people realising what has happened.

Can’t affect us as we are on broadband and leave the dial-up modem disconnected while it is not required but we are concerned as we always have been about commercial parasites.

A Manchester based firm of Solicitors has started a fighting fund to tackle the issue. An excellent idea we would like to see repeated on similar subjects.

As we’ve said before, as long as HMG are making money out of the taxes generated by these tactics they will do nothing.

Editorial 68 – 22.12.2004

Editorial 68 is expected to be last this year as we face what should be an interesting but challenging year. Honesty, Integrity and Balance sets the theme.

Data Protection Conman Jailed – December 21 2004

We have often shared information on commercial parasites here at Gas-News and can report that one such cowboy entrepreneur is now behind bars for a long time.

Mohammed Khatana set up a business in Burnley as a bogus data protection agency. Khatana is reported at the BBC as admitting 13 counts of theft, eight counts of deception and one charge of money laundering.

Burnley crown court also heard Khatana ask for 54 other charges to be taken in consideration.

Sentencing was not reported at the BBC but Gas-News has learned that Khatana received a three year custodial sentence for the thefts and an additional 12 months consecutive for other charges.

As Khatana was already on license he received a further 9 months consecutive to make a total of 4 years and 9 months.

This shows it is worth following up complaints about such people. Unless we report these crimes, nothing can happen.

Khatana was exploiting fear of the data protection act when there is nothing to fear. Further information can be obtained from the Information Commissioner which is the only legitimate authority.

ARGI-bargy – 21.11.2004

Featured on the front page of H&V News, the new Association of Registered Gas Installers (ARGI) has voiced its concern about the (alleged) Corgi Complete Safety Initiative (CSI). The now hundreds strong Association is already attracting the attention of industry bodies.

First featured at Gas-News, ARGI appears set to sweep away the cobwebs of past indifference, providing a good example for other Trade and Professional Associations to follow.

Scottish water jobs threat – 21.11.2004

Unison launches a scathing attack on the findings of the Scottish water industry commissioner's customer services report, adding that plans to cut Scottish Water's workforce in half by 2006 without affecting water provision and sewage disposal is untenable.

HSE staff slam management – 20.11.2004

“Inspectors, scientists and other professionals in the Health and Safety Executive have overwhelmingly expressed their lack of confidence in senior management following a ballot conducted by their union Prospect” says a report at PROSPECT.

Sparks Flying ? – 10.11.2004

Part P is flagged in Money Telegraph as another absurdity takes hold on the nation, in the form of the “Cowboys Charter”. We have to sympathise with our beleaguered colleagues but the perspective on gas is clearly in error.

EST News – 03.11.2004

Belated (by us) news release from the EST again “Community heating funding approaches the £50 million mark” – Interesting stuff.

1001 uses for asbestos – 25.10.2004

Novel new use for asbestos in a BBC report.

EST News – 25.10.2004

The call to arms is being sounded again pp Her Majesty’s Government by the Energy Saving Trust.

Gas Safety Review – 24.10.2004

A diligent visitor has reminded us of the ‘Fundamental Review of Gas Safety Regime’ pdf document (275KB) available from the HSE website and also installed now in our downloads section. He draws our attention to page 34 but it is all worth reading after page 34.

Oil Fired Condensing News – 20.10.2004

The Government has confirmed condensing boiler exceptions. From 1st April 2005 oil boilers installed in new build properties must be condensing, whilst new boilers at existing dwellings are exempt until April 2007 (Source OilFiredUp.com)

http://www.oilfiredup.com/news/index.asp?id=214

EST News – 20.10.2004

More news from the Energy Saving Trust, who told me at PHEX that Best Practice training response had been weak but (inevitably) there were signs it was going to pick up.

CORGI CSI – 17.10.2004

Comment 59 updates on the CORGI (alleged) Complete Safety Initiative. Gas-News argues it is time to shut the thing down for a respectable period and start again with an objective team of professionals, complete with communication skills.

CSI Coming Soon – 16.10.2004

The CORGI Complete Safety Initiative (CSI) is being re-examined and will be delivered this weekend, stuffed, trussed and ready for the table. Hopefully much later today but not guaranteed.

PHEX Manchester – 13.10.2004

A busy afternoon at PHEX Manchester, which produced one or two unexpected contacts, including comment from the Energy Saving Trust and CORGI.

More again on the show as I have a full diary at the moment.

Phoenix – 11.10.2004

noun: a legendary Arabian bird said to periodically burn itself to death and emerge from the ashes as a new phoenix.

OilFireUp is running with a story on the Northern Ireland Phoenix gas monopoly which has tempted fate and had its wings singed by the Advertising Standards Authority more

Hydrogen Economy ? – 10.10.2004

Perhaps not according to a paper at Nature.com, which offers interesting reading, and probably uncomfortable reading.

Kyoto – 30.09.2004

Our friends in Russia appear set to approve the Kyoto protocol according to a BBC report, which bodes well we hope for challenging C02 emissions.

Energy Saving Trust – 25.09.2004

A new website emerges from the EST, which appears to have been designed – at last – to be user friendly and people focused rather than subject focused. Better late than never. Well worth a visit.

Editorial 67 – 09.09.2004

An editorial is long overdue but the CORGI – Complete Safety Initiative has prompted a new one.

Energy Efficiency Week 2004 – 09.09.2004

Energy Saving Trust press release now online.

ARGI – 29.08.2004

New acronym for you in the form of the Association of Registered Gas Installers. Brand new and complete with excellent forum. Already installed in our Debate section we’ve posted a home page link (left) for a while.

Gas Appliance Tax ? – 29.08.2004

Consumers should know that CORGI (HSE) are planning to introduce a compulsory fee payable with each gas appliance installation, from April 2005. The alleged initiative appears in the guise of gas safety when it clearly is not. Follow the Discussion forum debate including recently archived material.

All Registered Gas Installers have received a letter. Ignore the second bit for now as that warrants separate scrutiny and is something of a red herring. As we always say there are hundreds of people out there busy inventing things we do not need. They should get respectable jobs like us.

Hydrogen Economy Closer – 15.08.2004

An interesting BBC report provides optimism for the future of the planet on the subject of fuel cell technology.

Energy Saving Trust – 12.08.2004

Press release now online.

APHC – 03.08.2004

After months in the wilderness the APHC website appears to be back on line.

Plumbing Courses Inundated – 14.07.2004

Fascinating what is going on in the industry as everyone and their dog try to get onto plumbing courses according to a BBC report.

Gas Supply Woes – 24.06.2004

From energy efficiency to energy inefficiency. A disturbing BBC report must call into question the pathetic efforts of the Government to deal with the looming energy crisis. The trick is to reduce demand rather than build a bigger supply chain. I can be done and must be done.

Welsh Eco-Village – 22.06.2004

Another superb Eco-village is on the drawing board and according to the BBC report, nil electricity will be required from the national grid. Hope we get an invitation to view the range of techniques being developed including recycled water.

Travesty – 17.06.2004

Two men die in a chimney and their managers had manslaughter charges dropped despite previously being warned in writing that what happened, could happen. The ensuing fines a pittance.

Can we never expect justice in the United Kingdom that we were promised a long time ago. We nominate the managers for the Investors in Bullying Award.

Mobile Phone Virus – 15.06.2004

A report in New Scientist heralds the dawn of mobile phone infections.

Hearth and Home – 14.06.2004

The next event on the calendar is the Hearth and Home exhibition in Harrogate on 28.06.2004.

Cowboy Entrepreneurs Lassoed – 13.06.2004

Superb result for Trading Standards in their quest (under difficult conditions) to lasso three blatant cowboy entrepreneurs conning ordinary decent folk with the TPA scam. Read the full story then click on Spam, Scams and Telesales for (free) the real thing. The scum involved now have severe restrictions on their activities.

IOP – 11.06.2004

The Institute of Plumbing (IoP) has changed name to the Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineering (IPHE).

BG Job Losses – 10.06.2004

A Unison report paints a gloomy picture and suggests 1450 jobs are going down the pan, allegedly without prior consultation. This conflicts with a report we referred to last week at the BBC which suggested only 850 jobs were axed. No doubt this forms part of the changes in Home Service Operations referred to in a British Gas staff letter leaked to Gas-News recently more

Liverpool Eco-Homes

A new Liverpool housing estate is re-cycling the Sun and Water. More

Dodgy Degrees – 08.06.2004

The London College of Technology and Business has been reported to Trading Standards by the Department for Education and Skills, in a remarkable story involving alleged plagiarism and Trade Descriptions. We receive a lot of emails offering fame for fees but this is (we hope) most unusual. More at the BBC.

Infomill – 07.06.2004

Further to our report below (Baxi Group News – 03.06.2004) we have now received some background information that may be of interest, both on the technology and the Baxi PartsArena project.

JOBS – 07.06.2004

The SBGI have had a face lift as well and are now advertising cutting-edge roles in gas work, including an interesting research and development job. While you are there the HHIC are seeking a Business Support Manager in CV32.

HSE – 06.06.2004

According to a CCA press release the HSE are abandoning some of the population. We have not yet had any feedback on our submission to the Work and Pensions Select Committee and fear the cause may be lost unless the matter is pressed further. Incidentally the acknowledgement from the Select Committee included a peremptory threat if we published details of our submission. Details were actually published at Gas News before they were submitted and we will publish again soon as a reminder; We will be bullied by no one.

HHIC – 06.06.2004

The new Heating and Hot Water Information Council (HHIC) website is now online, including details of Installer (Best Practice) Training.

Baxi Group News – 03.06.2004

We preface a press release received today from interpart, the spares division of the Baxi Group. You now have a dynamic interface for the whole range of spares and (wait for it) manufacturers instructions; We emphasise whole.

Clearly designed to serve at a blistering pace, the dedicated software (Infomill) requires a blip of a software download, even on dial-up. No username, password or cookies demanded and the no-frills design is intuitive. Dripping with GC numbers and MI dating back 20 years including Thorn.

Old favourites that I trained on include Solo, Barcelona, Powermax and much more. Read the press release and follow the link. We recommend adopting the option to open in a new window.

Newcomers - interpart is the parts division of the Baxi Group, providing genuine spares for the Baxi, Potterton, Valor, Main, Range PowerMax, Wonderfire and Myson, range of brands. The division is based in Warwick, with a dedicated parts distribution centre located in Preston. The interpart brand was launched in May 2003, in order to cater for the extensive range of Baxi Group brands, and is one of the largest heating spares businesses in the UK – deriving its name from the former Potterton parts operation. The distribution centre handles a range of more than 20,000 parts, processing more than 3,000 stock movements per day.

Top Chop at BG – 03.06.2004

A jobs squeeze is on at Centrica, though entirely at Managerial level according to a BBC Business report.

The Scottish Anomaly – 29.05.2004

According to a report you’re more likely to die at work in Scotland than elsewhere in the UK. Snag is, who do you report the HSE to ?

Scot free heating – 25.05.2004

Welcome news for some pensioners in Scotland as the free central heating scheme is being extended to some who have heating systems which are unsatisfactory. As £ billions are squandered on less worthy causes, upwards of 30000 PA die directly from cold related illnesses.

Las Vacant – 24.05.2004

Well you never know given time as Las Vegas is currently in the grip of a serious, years long drought. As a plumber earning £80K plus PA you’ll want a villa there but if you want one with a pool it will have to be an existing home. Pools are now verboten.

Global warming is with us, whatever the cause, and even though Mr Putin appears ready to ratify Kyoto, massive effort is required to make a dent in C02 reduction ambition. The existing UK targets cannot be met without firm leadership and those targets fall well short of what is needed.

MI-CLUB – 24.05.2004

Two new PDF files available from Baxi via the My-Mate website.

Lettings – 24.05.2004

Useful little overview if you are considering becoming a Landlord. This report refers to the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) which is a recognised body, if you are considering using an agent. Also referred to are ‘valid safety certificates (for gas)’ when there is no such thing. There are ‘gas safety records’ which indicate the status of an installation at a given point in time, however that may be anything but a ‘valid safety certificate’.

Aqua Cycle – 23.05.2004

It was always a case of when and not if we should meet a domestic product that processes grey water for re-use. Product Focus 6 explains all.

FGA – 23.05.2004

We announced earlier this year (following enquiries at BSI) that there has been some movement at last on BS 7967, the various bits of which are being phased in throughout the year. We were told launch is expected early in 2006. Believe it when you see it, we’ve been waiting four years now. Page 19 of PHAM News (Volume 4 No 5 May 2004) includes a resume of progress so far. Not particularly useful but it shows the patient is still alive.

New Asbestos Rules – 21.05.2004

Friday places new obligations on building owners that everyone should read, according to a BBC report.

Raised Hopes – 20.05.2004

With global warming and the risk of severe flooding on the increase, the Dutch are floating a new idea and with it a novel use for flexible plumbing.

Oil Stocks – 18.05.2004

While the Government dithers over urgently required energy efficiency measures, a BBC News Online environment correspondent pens a sobering report that we should all at least consider. Younger Installers would be well advised to broaden their skill base to include the wide range of options for the future.

Best Practice Hotline – 17.05.2004

A press release from the Energy Saving Trust announces a new hotline number (and other useful information), to meet the demand for Installer training.

Share Scam – 12.05.2004

Called home today, literally for five minutes between jobs and a call came in. Some guy who claimed to be from some investment company in New York. Usual patter and waffle advising me to sink some funds into Enron Mobile or some such. Telling me what a fortune I’d make. They of course are not subject to FSA rules.

Question is why would someone from USA phone a two-bit punk like me to help secure my future comforts. Because I am a two-bit punk and they want me to help secure their future comforts. Tried to disconnect politely but had to hang-up in the finish.

London Plumbers – 07.05.2004

One enterprising plumbing firm that scoots around London has made a stand against parking fines. Clever stuff in this BBC Report.

Gas Explosion – 07.05.2004

A row of houses falls victim to gas. Cause as yet unknown. BBC Report.

Virus – 02.05.2004

Serious new virus reported at the BBC which does not arrive via emails. Requires patch from Microsoft.

Corporate Manslaughter – 30.04.2004

Another damning report sourced by our voluntary workplace rep, concerns the continued negligence of this administration in relation to workplace safety. All talk, no action and failed promises as usual, highlighted in this TUC press release. What could be more important than human safety and dignity ?

Carbon Index – 29.04.2004

This BBC (Science) report delivers a neat overview of the broad implications for us all due to C02 emissions. The message seems clear enough and points the way to a Carbon Index driven policy agenda for the future. That said it is pointless talking about it (Part L) without taking action.

Scam – 29.04.2004

The BBC (Business) reports a new ‘net name’ scam which will be installed in our Spam, Scams and Telesales section.

Fast Track ACS – 28.04.2004

I’ve had a polite complaint about the snippet below on ACS. The H&V News article implied (incorrectly in my view) that everyone was expecting the new ACS assessment to be completed in one day. The HSE has repeatedly said they would not expect everyone to complete ACS assessment in one day.

What I objected to before was attending for a couple of hours on different days to undertake assessment. A waste of valuable time given the shortage of Installers.

We are talking here about assessment only. I have always undertaken additional refresher training and would recommend that to others. Training will obviously add extra time and that will have to be added to overheads to be passed on to consumers who benefit from that training.

EST News – 28.04.2004

Press release now available from the Energy Saving Trust on the new Best Practice courses.

Interbuild 2004 – 27.04.2004

Comment 58 takes a look at some of the offerings from Interbuild 2004

Climate Group – 27.04.2004

The BBC (Science) report on a new body to promote the cause of tackling global warming although the USA and Russia continue to absent themselves from the Kyoto protocol, both for economic reasons. That said, Her Majesty’s Government have dragged us all screaming to the start line of a new era in energy efficiency and then abandoned the topic. As we’ve said before, we’re all dressed for the party and the host has done a runner ?

Interbuild – 26.04.2004

Had an excellent day (I admit) at Birmingham NEC (Interbuild) today.

Although the Domestic Heating and Plumbing category was not widely represented, some stunning displays kept us both busy until we were thrown out after the bell at 17.00 hours.

More later including pictures and industry gossip …

Fast Track ACS – 25.04.2004

A report in H&V News suggests the new ACS (for experienced operatives) has failed to make an impact. We invite you to ignore that as scare mongering.

The original concern (my original concern) was the profligate waste of time under the old regime where virtually two whole weeks were seriously disrupted thus denying continuity of work (remember we do the real work).

Expect your next round of ACS to take two days at most. If that applies I’ll be more than content. Don’t feel inadequate if you can’t do it in one day.

No Win No Fee ? – 25.04.2004

A useful object lesson sourced by our workplace rep. If you are unfortunate enough to be hurt contact your union. Better still, try to avoid being hurt.

We would add that the same caution is required with debt collectors who are now crawling out of the woodwork and pestering us again. Always (always) say NO to advance-fee anything.

Best Practice – 25.04.2004

Comment 57 provides a thumbnail view of Best Practice and where we are up to today.

Cowboy Entrepreneurs – 24.04.2004

Researched by our volunteer workplace rep, more parasitic shenanigans flagged by the HSE in a press release. We’ll install this in the Scams section shortly. If you are approached by this vermin please let us know.

Flueless (Gas Fires) Support Pack – 23.04.2004

We’ve been sat on this superb document from http://www.burley.co.uk/ for a few days due to pressures elsewhere. One of the best we’ve seen for a long time, it offers Installers a delightful overview of the subject. The sort of information that will help present the subject to customers. We have it online as a Word Doc (88KB) or zipped (36KB). A must-have on your laptops and it is already on the first issue CDs currently being rolled out at http://www.my-mate.co.uk/.

Condensing Boiler Exemptions – 21.04.2004

We take a look at the farcical new debate in Comment 56

Manslaughter – 21.04.2004

Cover story in H&V News this week concerns the Landlord and Handyman who were both jailed for causing the death of two young tenants who had complained about lack of heating. Faulty gas fire installation. The Landlord (62) got 5 years and the Handyman (40) got 3 years. Both to serve at least half their sentence.

Any old iron ? – 17.04.2004

Editorial 66 takes a brief look at recent references to industry price hikes due to shortage of raw materials.

EST News – 17.04.2004

Two days old this press release from the EST but life has been a bit hectic. Some interesting seminars on the horizon for anyone interested in energy issues and renewables.

Interbuild – 17.04.2004

Last call for Interbuild, which starts next week. Not too late to register online but I have to say the Domestic Heating and Plumbing section does not seem to have widespread support for what should be a showcase exhibition.

CD Launch – 12.04.2004

Issue of CDs will begin at the end of this week. All further announcements will be made at the My-Mate.co.uk website (and on the mailing list) to save duplication and get that site rolling.

We are ready now but need to provide some more information to get the scheme kick-started, as well as decide how the scheme is to operate.

The first issue of CDs includes links to the following manufacturers:

• Boilers
• Warm Air
• Water Heaters
• Unit Space Heaters (Gas Fires)
• Cookers

We will burn the first 100 sets and see if we get any sets back for further distribution. Everyone on the mailing list will get a set as soon as we are able to get them out.

If anyone wants to download and test the off-line web pages you can do that here (link removed). Unzip and save to C:\My Documents, open My Mate folder and click on index (or index.htm).

I want to get on with the new Gas-News website as soon as possible and tackle some of the looming issues, not least the bizarre Best Practice and Part L (J) fiasco. Our voluntary researchers are still sending me good stuff and that is not being turned into stories as it should be.

How you can help ? – 10.04.2004

A number of people have asked how they can assist with MI-CLUB matters. Now I can answer that question.

The best way to participate, so we can help each other, is to provide us with scanned MI. That means MI neatly scanned into Word pages. We have licensed software to convert those quickly into PDF files. It is a bit of a hike we know but if everyone does a few we will soon saturate the various nations with MI. You could email them or burn them onto CDs and post.

Duplication ? No problem, launch of current CDs is now imminent. We have filled three (and I mean filled) and will run into 4 CDs at first launch. Once you receive your set, if there is anything you have that we do not then please pass it on. We can convert your scanned word files into a PDF file and email that to everyone on the mailing list (only). Ultimately more CDs will be issued.

There are boxes of old MI here waiting to be processed. They will be processed in the future at the rate (probably) of one each week. Mapping the world must have seemed a daunting task but they made it and so can we if we work together.

Our current status is that the off-line web pages have now been finalised, with a few minor cosmetic modifications made. The Beta-Test CDs included (accidentally) some duplicate folders. All that has now been tidied up. MI we have now is as follows:

· All MI (which in most cases includes user instructions we’ve termed UI) currently available from all known boiler manufacturers websites.

· Ditto unit space heaters (gas fires etc) but we note manufacturers overall offer less MI for gas fires online (?). There are stunning exceptions.

· Thanks to donations from visitors, a significant range of MI relating to boilers where the manufacturers concerned do not have online MI.

· Ditto gas water heaters. We know this section is not yet complete but we will have time to complete before we launch, as we are well on track.

· Thanks to superb donations from visitors, a significant range of MI relating to cookers. This incidentally includes electric ovens and hobs as well as gas. If you want to weed those out that is up to you.

We have most if not all warm air MI in hardcopy and they will ultimately be included. That includes related information on replacement models and other stuff.

The MI-CLUB must in the longer term include controls. Absence of MI on that subject is a major headache.

Overall organisation is as already planned. Knowledgeable Installers will have no problem locating what they are looking for if it is there. This is primarily an Installer resource.

We are NOT delaying launch pending delivery of further donations of MI. We have enough already and I will commit to launch before the end of April. We made the Beta-Test deadline and will meet the April deadline for roll out. Once we start, the mailing list will be temporarily suspended.

To help avoid issuing CD sets to those who are simply curious (given the huge amount of work involved), we will have to devise some means ultimately of ensuring recipients are registered installers (businesses or employees). The aim is to get the information to the people who do the real work. All those on the current mailing list will be offered CDs.

Our mailing list includes Housing Associations, Colleges and large organisations. There is no lack of interest. As one visitor wrote, people should be ripping my arms off for the MI and indeed they are but it has to be a team effort.

One enlightened manufacture has just supplied us with an Installer Support Pack which is precisely the sort of stuff Installers need, particularly industry new entrants. Superbly presented and you will receive that also. More information will be posted on that soon separately.

There is a folder in the organisation structure for each manufacturer. That includes a formatted word page carrying their full URL as a link and there is space for you to add personal notes for future reference. There is also now a ‘Brochures’ folder where you can install up-to-date brochures on products to show customers.

We are not supplying brochures unless they arrive here from manufacturers. One idea is to open a ‘showroom’ on the Discussion Forum where manufacturers (only) can post details of new products (password protected). That could include links to new MI available from their website. That will reduce our workload.

Meanwhile - 05.04.2004

Back at the ranch we’re neglecting Gas-News stuff and will be back later with one or two snippets that cropped up whilst MI-CLUB matters were being broadcast.

My Mate – 02.04.2004

We are reliably informed that the BBC have a £ 79 million budget for web based media. Personally I think they do a splendid job; We basically don’t have any budget.

That said, we have now launched a new website to provide an independent home for the MI-CLUB or Manufacturers Instructions Club. The website is called, for good reason, http://www.my-mate.co.uk/.

My Mate is a no-frills foundation for a project we have all dreamed about. Let me first explain what My Mate is not. It is not a fully featured website that will deliver the MI you want for a particular product at the click of a mouse button. It was never at any time intended to be. Hosting hundreds of MI for download would be an unrealistic ambition.

The initial idea was to shovel all the MI we could lay our hands-on (we meaning you as well) into a container, which we could all then dip into as the need arose. Snag with that is the task of finding MI becomes more difficult as the pile gets bigger.

That introduces the need for organisation. As a result of that need we have developed an archive which includes a number of folders bearing the name of – as far as we know – all boiler brands. If any are missing please let us know.

But Installers have need for MI beyond boilers. There are gas fires, controls plus other products and services that demand careful attention to MI. We decided – in the longer term – to include those as well. Indeed we already have many others stacked up.

The need exists to communicate such information to the population at large. A website is the obvious method. My-Mate.co.uk is therefore essentially a community notice board. We hope everyone will contribute for the common good.

One snag with MI is that they are often needed at short notice. Too often those needed are for non-current appliances. The only way we can facilitate that is by providing everyone with all MI available. By definition any such list will grow.

To kick start the project we are producing CD based archives of available MI. A number of people have already contributed to those archives and we appreciate that effort. We can only go so far. Given we have no funding and cannot accept fees for CDs, success of the project rests with everyone who uses the service.

With the power of modern computers and increasing use of laptop computers, we can store hundreds of MI in a small space. There is more space to store information than most of us will ever need. Why not we thought, include additional information that may be of benefit to Installers and Trainees.

That thought resulted in the production of an off-line website mirror. The website and mirror can host additional information that may be of interest. Please remember the archive idea came first, not the website mirror. The website mirror is simply an add-on which can be studied at any time even if not connected to the internet.

The website also provides the opportunity for Installers and others to share information in public. We can maybe all learn from that experience. The website Forum will be strictly limited to conversation which supports the aims and objectives of My-Mate.co.uk.

The primary role of the website (not the mirror) is to enable us all to communicate and keep up to date with MI. New MI will include information donated to us as well as leads to new information from manufacturers.

Where manufacturers provide new information (PDF MI) online, we will point people to that information. If you see a change, please let us know. We expect therefore to send traffic to manufacturers. We are not in the business of usurping manufacturers and never will be.

Please remember manufacturers also host brochures online and they can be useful to download and show your customers. My Mate will not be getting involved with brochures as they will quickly become out of date whereas MI always have value

My Mate will collect and catalogue MI not available elsewhere. Such MI can only be supplied to visitors through newsletters as MI become available. Once we have sufficient additional MI, further CD issues will begin. We cannot (do not have the time) to respond to individual requests for MI.

Incidentally MI includes UI or User Instructions.

The Gas-News.co.uk MI-CLUB has now moved to http://www.my-mate.co.uk/ where the MI-CLUB mailing list is also housed.

26.03.2004 – CD Rollout

We’re almost there. Would the donors of MI please submit their address to us for the first issue of CDs next week. They will be invited to Beta test the new CDs and preview the new website. Nowt like a second, third, fourth etc opinion.

Negotiations re charitable donations are proving too slow so we’ve abandoned that idea for now. We have to move on this.

We had intended that any future downloads from this website of MI (old stuff we will be hosting) would be subject to a (say) £ 1.00 donation directly to a charity by credit card.

What we’ll do now is host the MI and when we have enough, issue another CD etc. However those on our mailing list will automatically receive a zipped copy of MI as we are able to deliver. Sending one email to the whole email list does not impact on our bandwidth, whereas downloads do.

MI-CLUB UPDATE – 21.03.2004

If we have seemed quiet, there is a reason.

It was always recognised that when we issued CDs, we could add some information (pure facts only) from the Gas-News website. As the CDs will inevitably be copied – we encourage that – then any additional information might reach people who would not otherwise hear about such information.

That idea was taken a step further. It was decided to produce a PC based (offline) website in effect. Such a website would run like a small software program to make access more user friendly. That utility is now well advanced.

It took a while for the penny to drop but we now recognise how important the MI-CLUB is. As I write I am surrounded by around 500 MI (much of it old stuff), such has been the interest shown. Now we have started there is no going back.

Gas-News is considered (by me) to be an inappropriate host for such an important venture. Accordingly we have created a whole new website dedicated to the MI-CLUB. That URL is registered, online and being developed as quickly as possible. It is a no-frills functional (no-frames) website. Unless anyone objects we will transfer the mailing list to the new website.

Should the need arise in the future, the new website could be moved to a new owner without the complication of disentangling it from Gas-News, which will continue as always.

As I’ve said, the MI-CLUB is now considered far too important and needs an independent identity. Whatever happens it must survive into the future. That has been generated by your effort and enthusiasm for the idea.

Basically we now know the CDs issue will include the new utility which mirrors the new website. Design of the utility (and the website) is such that anyone will be able to update their utility at any time by downloading a zipped file from the new website 24/7. Providing our recommended installation is followed for the CDs, any downloads should install and overwrite more or less automatically.

We will be recommending the CDs be installed on your C: Drive in the My Documents folder. A small number of people will be asked to test the new set up first.

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The Gas-News.co.uk re-write has been put on the back burner for now (the one where you test dynamic gas pressure ?) so as not to delay the MI-CLUB roll out.

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When any new MI are brought to our attention we will announce such availability and point visitors to the source (manufacturer’s website). That will be done through the website and the mailing list.

As we receive new MI (old stuff) and process those, they will be sent out as zipped pdf files to everyone on the MI-CLUB mailing list. That will also stop hundreds of downloads from the new website, which would swallow bandwidth.

We will be hosting MI not available anywhere else and they will be available for download but for a fee payable to a charity. The details of that have yet to be thrashed out but we have had some correspondence with www.childline.org.uk on the subject.

Let me make it clear that we do not claim to be working ‘In Association’ with Childline or anyone else (as the advanced fee brigade often say). We are trying to set up a system whereby a small fee is paid (directly to a charity) for each download. That will also help discourage wholesale downloads from the new website (unless they want to pay).

If anyone has details of geographical information we would be pleased to include such information on the website and CDs. That is to say relevant groups, clubs, bodies, associations, regular events etc in Wales, Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Channel Islands etc.

Les Gradwell

editor@gas-news.co.uk

EST Budget News – 18.03.2004

We assume that once HMG has given the elbow to 40000 volunteers in their corridors of power(less) they’re going to engage Rumplestiltskin to spin a yarn (excuse the pun) on Energy Efficiency. They’ve obviously been reading Gas-News in re Landlords but that’s where it ends. The EST have an unflattering press release on what little is on the table (what else can they do ?). Not much incentive to us ‘umble folk wanting to do the decent thing. Sounds like a cast-iron denial of past promises.

News – 16.03.2004

We are not short on news just time. A whole new website is being developed as well as the MI Club for which we have around 100 pdf files yet to process, install and catalogue.

Best Practice Tragedy – 12.03.2004

It was never a case of if but when we might read the headline (Installers fail to warm to energy efficiency certificate) in PHAM News (Volume 42 # 3 March 2004). My thanks to the Editor (Chris Jones) for properly describing the situation rather than launching an inappropriate attack on Installers. We ask what is to be done next in Editorial 65.

HSE A-Z – 12.03.2004

Sporty new front end for the HSE with their posh (and useful) site map, sourced by our work place rep. We’ll install the link on the new website. We’ve had it a couple of days but have been busy.

Quiet ? – 12.03.2004

Apologies for absence but we are busy with the MI Club, Building a new (no-frames) website and of course a bit of work now and again.

MI Club – 08.03.2004

The organisation structure (support) is now completely set up and we are ready to start rolling out CD sets once those have been tweaked. The notion is that you can keep your CDs updated with the help of visitors, through the MI Club section.

NVQ – 05.03.2004

They’ve been well behaved at H&V news for a while but an article on Page 2 suggests NVQ has produced 6000 half trained workers. Apparently the City and Guilds boffins are looking at renaming the first stage of NVQ so those that drop out have a less user-friendly title. If they can pay professors to train students, why not pay qualified people to train plumbers ?

MI Club Opens – 05.03.2004

The doors are now open for business at the world famous (?) MI Club. We’ll keep you posted with developments. If you wish to enrol, please do so.

MI Club – 04.03.2004

This has now been kick-started and to help us on our way (your way) someone has already promised 2 gigabytes of Manufacturers Instructions.

TPS Scam – 04.03.2004

We’re a wee bit late with this one but as it has indefinite significance we report on the Telephone Protection Agency which is a scam taking fees off unwary individuals by appearing similar to the bona-fide Telephone Preference Service which is of course free. No address for these parasites so if you hear from them please let us know.

MI Club – 02.03.2004

We are making a concerted effort to compile as many manufacturers instructions as possible onto CDs, so they can be transferred in turn onto personal computers and/or laptop computers for use in the field. We will shortly set up what will be known as MI Club to host the idea. The scheme will be carefully devised and we hope will have widespread support. Help in development will be welcomed.

PC Pollution – 27.02.2004

More viruses en-route for your PC according to a report at the BBC Technology website. Beef up your anti-virus software.

DIY Pollution – 26.02.2004

Another interesting matter we’ve been aware of for some time, following an incident locally where an additional loo at a new home was emptying into the local watercourse. Drainage is not as glamorous at plumbing and heating but just as important, if not more so. New homes have separate systems and surface water often empties into a nearby brook so money is not wasted treating rainwater as sewage. Again DIY perceptions of the inept are to blame. I wrote a book on this ages ago to protect punters from idiots and con men. I’ll get around to publishing when I get a minute.

Russian Gas Tragedies – 26.02.2004

I’m not being flippant about what is a serious matter but the evidence of another avoidable gas tragedy due to lack of safety surveillance is all too clear in this BBC report. It is only when controls are absent that the need for them becomes most apparent; When it is too late.

New lamps for old ? – 24.02.2004

One guy is not very turned on by his local electricity supplier and has sought solace in good old gas lighting. Can I fit them on domestic ACS or does this mean another module ?

Baxi Training – 23.02.2004

Could be our negligence but we’ve only just noted the Baxi-Potterton website dedicated to training. Superbly set out and as with their products they are covering the whole range. Some clues to forthcoming changes. If you hear of others please let us know. We can’t be everywhere at once.

Scot free power – 23.02.2004

Scotland is about to wave goodbye to energy problems with a new machine designed to harness the power of the sea. Well done Scotland, we will all be watching with great interest.

Dr Gas – 23.02.2004

My GP used to do a bit of plumbing for interest but according to a BBC report a molecular biologist in Birmingham is swapping his microscope for a manometer in order to create some stability in his life. He’s fed up of low wages and temporary contracts. He may change his mind when he meets a few bug infested boilers.

Very Natural Gas – 22.02.2004

Severn Trent Water has unveiled plans to generate energy from sewage with plants in Derby, Alfreton, Burton and Uttoxeter. Gases created by the sewage are burnt off and converted into electricity. Severn Trent say it will introduce the plants at 30 sites across the country. It is hoped the plants will create enough environmentally friendly energy to power a city the size of Gloucester (Source BBC).

Unpaid Gas Bill – 22.02.2004

The ultimate disconnection for alleged unpaid gas. The customer Belarus. The gas supplier Russia. Be warned, the Uk should not be a net importer of gas. Energy efficiency can help prevent that.

Gas Leak Fire – 21.02.2004

A BBC report details a fatality in a flat due to fire caused by a gas leak.

FWR – 21.02.2004

A new acronym for you from the Foundation for Water Research. Plenty of stuff for the latent chemists and physicists in our ranks. Sadly secondary rather than primary water. If you’re suffering from merinque dezincification in your brass bits and pieces, this is the place to study the aetology.

Missed Call Scam – 18.02.2004

Not a new idea but the BBC reports on the cowboy entrepreneurs who re-direct callers to a premium rate number. In this case a watchdog has actually shut two companies down. Probably too little too late but better than nothing. The people concerned should be banned from owning any telecommunications business for life.

We once (only once) briefly activated the mobile message service which seemed to have a hair trigger. Even though the phone, sat on the office desk, had a rock solid signal within range, too many calls went to the answerphone. A con trick to raise money. Never used it since.

EST News – 18.02.2004

Another press release from the Energy Saving Trust with the title ‘Demand for energy efficiency grows as TV duo head new Homebuyers’ Campaign’.

Bagle.B Virus – 18.02.2004

The BBC website reports another virulent virus. Please check your anti-virus software is up to date.

Gas Safety Campaign – 17.02.2004

Corgi has announced a joint safety campaign with Nigel Griffiths MP, aimed at students in his constituency. The last information available to us states that only one in ten Landlords have a mandatory gas safety check carried out. Why not target the root of the problem and regulate Landlords. Gas Installers have to be registered, why not Landlords ?

Mr Spam II – 16.02.2004

See also http://www.ninet.co.uk

Mr Spam – 16.02.2004

Meet the weird Mr Spam a.k.a. Weaselboy, who it is claimed is the number one spammer in the UK and of course there is nothing the alleged authorities can do about it (as usual).

A Times report details his dubious CV. If the link ever fails we have clipped the page, just contact us. The reason they deliberately do nothing is to distract our attention from the real issues of the day.

HSE Industrial Action – 15.02.2004

Although MPs have recently awarded themselves a modest pay rise, no doubt reluctantly, it seems they were too reluctant to do the same for their own staff without the stereotypical party games. Brace yourselves for industrial action more

Corporate Watch – 13.02.2004

Interesting study for students of the Corporate Manslaughter debate sourced again by our workplace rep. Make no mistake, we’re not interested in nailing anyone who wears a suit (I do sometimes), rather those who consciously put profit before safety. Profit is essential to our survival but pointless if it threatens our survival more

Website Upgrade – 12.02.2004

A website upgrade has now been successfully completed. The main benefit is a greatly increased bandwidth (more than doubled). Growth in traffic seems to be consistent, which combined with the popularity of a few downloads, suggested an upgrade was prudent.

Offshoring – 11.02.2004

Another troubling story sourced by our workplace rep on a topic we have covered earlier. One way or another it could affect us all. We’re moving assets soon from Abbey to Nationwide who do not outsource from the UK.

Cumbria Manslaughter – 11.02.2004

Some may already have seen the BBC report referring to the Legionnaires Disease outbreak resulting in deaths, in which both the Council and a middle manager have been charged with manslaughter. There is a far more detailed report in The Times but we do not know how long their links survive. Allegedly a service contract on the 30 year old air conditioning plant was cancelled.

Current Affairs – 11.02.2004

We have opened up a new topic on the Discussion Board to enable us to host ‘comment’ from others more easily. The idea is to focus on the latest industry news, possibly drawn from magazines etc to help us (and you) balance the picture, which is our prime directive. Agree, disagree or change the subject, it is up to you. Speak now or forever hold thy peace.

Microsoft Critical Update – 10.02.2004

A BBC report has flagged a top priority critical update report for users of the latest OS including, NT, 2000, XP and Server 2003. If you are running any of those, immediate update recommended.

EST News – 10.02.2004

This news release leads with MANUFACTURERS AND TRAINING PROVIDERS BACK ENERGY EFFICIENCY CERTIFICATE but it contains valuable information for prospective trainers, training providers and Installers. A must-see bulletin.

ASBESTOS – 09.02.2004

Two stories sourced from the TUC and UCATT respectively by our workplace representative, highlights some disturbing facts from home and the USA more

EVENTS – 09.02.2004

We have added a Water, Sewerage and Waste listing to the Events section. The shows are held throughout the UK and Eire. No dates listed on the website sadly but you can see venues and make an online request for information.

By the way there is a DHPTE event in Reading later this month.

UKGIIN – 08.02.2004

We’ve just launched our first UKGIIN email as referred to under the UKGIIN banner below. All emails seem to have landed except one which bounced. Given the numbers we have that is a useful exercise. We will test the failed mailing later in case it was a one-off aberration.

Best Practice – 07.02.2004

According to a report on the back page of H&V News, the cost of Energy Efficiency (Best Practice) training was overstated last year. The alleged subsidy figure has been rounded down to £59.00p. The report continues to misrepresent the training as ‘preparation for the change to a condensing (boiler) only market’. Best Practice is not and never was focused only on condensing boilers.

Question we ask is why report the revised subsidy figure. Is this a softening and preparation for further announcements ?

Jersey Gas – 06.02.2004

A BBC report confirms that the Jersey Government has now adopted a voluntary scheme for Registering Gas Installers. The Library / Shared / Government has been updated accordingly.

Northern Ireland – 05.02.2004

There is reference in TGI to the revamped Baxi Training Centre in Belfast and appears to cover the whole range including the Powermax which I trained on in pre-Potterton days at Moulton College. Also included, Basic Electrics, Combination Boilers and CITB Unvented.

TGI Technical – 05.02.2004

The Library (TGI Technical) has been updated to include technical features in the latest (February) edition. There is enough interest this month to justify a few notes, including a feature on Gren Ward (Baxi) who’s been on the road doing more than a few (radio) gigs to get the message across. Let’s hope he can start a favourable (concentric or otherwise) flue epidemic as no one else seems to be trying.

Apologies for absence of UKGIIN email but we have been swamped this week one way or another. It will go out soon.

UKGIIN 01 – 04.02.2004

It has been decided to run with the matter of TGI repositioning itself in the world of media. Some are affected (and have said so) and some may not be. Some may be interested and some may not be. The function of UKGIIN is simply to pass on information then each recipient can decide what action, if any, to take. UKGIIN matters will not be hosted on the site, principally for workload reasons.

Commitments will delay the UKGIIN email until at least Thursday PM. That will also give others a chance to subscribe.

TGI – 03.02.2004

The ‘Consultation on proposed new corporate structure for CORGI’ promises ‘ambitious development plans’ and it now seems, according to our sources that this includes what is termed repositioning TGI in the world of media. We cannot find out if Nicole Kidman or her namesake will appear on page 3 but we hope our perception of the revised TGI remains a myth. We can say that huge advertising price hikes have already been quoted - Comment 55

Critical Update – 03.02.2004

Microsoft have announced a critical update which we installed last night and is now reported on at the BBC. Vital you install this patch.

Asbestos – 02.02.2004

Another asbestos story for anyone following the issue.

Baxi – 02.02.2004

We are advised that BC Partners have been confirmed as shareholders; the musical chairs have ceased.

Hutton dressed as lamb ? – 01.02.2004

Once upon a time in a not so far away land, where the gullible masses still believed in honesty, truth and virtue, there also existed the notion of free speech – Editorial 64

Mydoom Virus – 31.01.2004

Anyone infected with the virus can download a disinfection tool from F-Secure. If you download (free) mailwasher you can see emails before they get anywhere near your OE email client. We bought it to cover all email accounts.

This week – 31.01.2004

Baxi are still playing musical chairs according to H&V News and are now sat on the BC Partners portfolio. For how long is not mentioned. Meanwhile Baxi now span minimum carbon to maximum carbon technology having bought Electroheat. As Ogden Nash said, big fleas have little fleas on their backs to bite ‘em, little fleas have lesser fleas and so ad infinitum.

Also covered is the BG unofficial walkout in the smoke over parity and mention of the Work and Pensions Select Committee in re the HSE/HSC which we covered earlier in the week, to which we will be making a submission. As that submission is expected to take most of the weekend to tidy up we may go quiet but we will not go away.

Asbestos Epidemic Forecast – 30.01.2004

A BBC health report offers a stern warning to those who may choose to ignore Her Majesty’s Government in re the risks attached to asbestos. Too late for punters like me but it is not too late for others to avoid the risk. Vet it and wet it at least.

Corgi Changes – 30.01.2004

The corporate structure of Corgi is under review and a consultative document has been launched ‘Consultation on proposed new corporate structure for CORGI’, which should reach all members of the Corgi Council. If any organisation feels they should be on the Corgi Council, this might be a good time to ask. Umbrella Charitable Trust status is muted.

Select Committee – 29.01.2004

We mentioned below the current HSE/HSC Review by a select committee. Work and Pensions have now sent us details of how to submit to the Committee and we have put the full text online for anyone who is interested.

Another Virus – 29.01.2004

Mydoom.B is a new virus and a relation to the last one. This one is targeted at Microsoft. We’ve received literally hundreds of ‘funny’ emails in the last 48 hours but they have been deleted on the server using mailwasher. Aside from the firewall and anti-virus we don’t maintain an OE address book anyway. Email addresses (active links) are simply stored elsewhere on a Word page and clicked when an email is to be sent.

Select Committee – 27.01.2004

It has been decided to make a submission to the Select Committee (HSE/HSC Review), given that we have a good two weeks to do so. The basic strategy has been in the freezer for a long time awaiting a suitable opportunity, which now seems to have arrived. If anyone wishes to chip in, on or off the record then email quickly. A rare chance to have some say. This is a separate matter from our letter to the Secretary of State for the same Department.

New Virus – 27.01.2004

A BBC report confirms what we already know about the new Mydoom virus. We have received dozens already, having been quiet for weeks. Neither the firewall nor anti-virus software intercepted the emails as, thanks to Mailwasher Pro they never got anywhere near the computer, hence they could not infect the computer.

BG Walkout – 26.01.2004

According to a BBC report (link now lost – details available offline) 25 BG engineers have gone on unofficial walkout over local conditions (living allowance).

Website Maintenance – 26.01.2004

We have been quiet this weekend as website maintenance has swallowed all available time. The main task which alone took 8 hours using software was to check all website links, of which there are 12857 excluding secure areas. Faulty links are now being resolved one way or another and that is proving to be a hike but it has to be done.

TUC History – 24.01.2004

A new URL for students of trade union history which may be of interest.

Entering Plumbing – 23.01.2004

The following text contains a question by a Daily Mirror reader, addressed to Sir Alan Sugar in his business column ‘A Spoonful of Sugar’. The text also includes Sir Alan’s useful reply. We have received kind permission from his office to reproduce in full – Comment 54

HSC/HSE Review – 22.01.2004

No not another Gas Safety Review, this time the House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee are having an inquiry ‘to examine the work of the Health and Safety Commission and Health and Safety Executive and the effectiveness of current arrangements to promote high standards of health and safety.’ Hurry folks you have only until February 13 2004 to … But don’t tell them I sent you.

C0-GasSafety – 22.01.2004

A new URL for you which leads to a solidly based and long standing website dedicated primarily to C0 sufferers and appears to recognise the potential risk from long term exposure to low levels of C0. Now installed in the Library (Shared files) section for your future reference. Shame on us, we only discovered it last night.

BS 7967 – 22.01.2004

Gas-News has again been in contact with BSI-Global on the trail of the elusive or reclusive British Standard, which sexed-up reports in the CORGI magazine have always suggested is just around the corner. We can confirm that the standard, which is to be in three parts, is still not out in draft form for public comment. There is however light at the end of what must be a record breaking tunnel. It seems bits are due out on 18.08.2004 – 08.10.2004 and completion is set for 04.02.2005, just before the year of the monkey (business ?) ends. CORGI must have known or ought to have known the truth. We’re not spending further on FGA until the ‘normative’ document arrives to back us up. The BS may affect our choice of equipment.

GWINTO – 21.01.2004

The old National Training Organisation seems to be metamorphosing nicely into a Sector Skills Council at http://www.euskills.co.uk/ but EU refers to energy and utility rather than the other well known EU. EU-Skills resolves to GWINTO.

Energy Saving Trust – 21.01.2004

A further news release is now installed in EST Focus

Hot Water Risks – 21.01.2004

More regulation is looming according to an article in H&V News (17.01.2004) with a view to preventing some if not all of the horrendous scalding accidents which kill 20 people each year and leave hundreds of young children needing years of painful surgery. No reasonable person could object to anything which would reduce such suffering but what, if anything, will be done to ensure regulation will be translated into results ? Comment 53

Here they go again – 21.01.2004

An article in H&V News (Compulsory Standards for Domestic Controls – 17.01.2004) superbly highlights what we have often stated (thank you). The Association of Controls Manufacturers (TACMA) is calling for Installers to be required by law to ensure controls (on heating systems) comply with the new regulations (2005). The Association Director confirms that last year’s changes (Part L) had seen little impact, citing statistics. Naturally Installers are to blame more

Part L Consultation – 21.01.2004

Another letter in H&V News this week (17.01.2004) on the subject of condensing boiler training. This time from David Woodcock, an Installer who contributes to one of the magazines and is a prominent member of the IOP. He says, he is well connected in the industry and yet does not know anyone who is involved in the process (Best Practice). The valid point he makes is that nothing proposed will influence the people who need to be influenced. Added regulation will simply make it tougher for those who already work by the book and increased costs will drive move work to those who ignore the regulations. Without a major publicity campaign and enforcement they’re wasting their time. A bit like having one speed camera in the whole of the UK set to record anything over 90 mph. If he is right what have the IOP been doing or not doing ? Tragic really, time they had some real know-how on the case but guess who will be blamed when it falls apart, those who they failed to consult.

HCI – 20.01.2004