How to get a commercial gas safety certificate

What you need to do

To get your commercial gas safety certificate, you must hire a Gas Safe registered engineer to inspect all gas appliances, flues, and pipework in your business premises. If everything meets the required safety standards, the engineer will issue you with a Commercial Gas Safety Certificate (also known as a CP42). This is a legal requirement for any business using gas equipment, and you must have a valid certificate to operate.

What is a Commercial Gas Safety Certificate?

A commercial certificate is different from the one you might have at home. It's a more detailed inspection that covers the specific, heavy-duty gas appliances found in a business setting like a restaurant, café, or food truck. The engineer will check:

• All gas appliances (e.g., ovens, hobs, fryers).
• The gas pipework and its installation.
• The adequacy of ventilation for the appliances.
• The gas interlock system, which ensures the kitchen's extraction fan is working before the gas supply is turned on.

Step-by-step guide

1. Find the Right Engineer: The most important step is to find an engineer who is not only on the Gas Safe Register but is also qualified to work on commercial catering equipment. You can find a local, qualified engineer by using the official Gas Safe Register website.
2. Arrange the Inspection: Contact the engineer or their company to book an appointment. It's wise to get a quote upfront.
3. The Inspection: The engineer will visit your premises and carry out a series of tests on your equipment and installation. Ensure they have clear access to all appliances and the gas meter.
4. Receive the Certificate: If everything is safe, the engineer will issue the CP42 certificate. This document details what was checked and confirms it meets the legal standard. If any issues are found, the engineer will explain what needs to be fixed. An appliance deemed 'Immediately Dangerous' will be disconnected straight away until it is repaired or replaced.

Top Tip: When the engineer arrives, always ask to see their Gas Safe ID card. The back of the card lists the specific types of gas work they are qualified to do. Check that "Commercial Catering" is listed.

How often do I need to get one?

A commercial gas safety certificate is valid for 12 months. You must have your appliances and pipework inspected every year to renew the certificate. It's a good idea to set a reminder a month before it expires to ensure you don't miss the deadline and operate illegally.

Keep your certificate in a safe place on your premises, as an Environmental Health Officer, insurance provider, or Health and Safety Executive inspector may ask to see it at any time.