Gas safety and used catering equipment: what you need to know
Gas ranges, fryers, chargrills and combi ovens are some of the most popular used catering equipment. They're also the items where getting the installation right really matters. Here's what you need to know before you buy.
Only a Gas Safe registered engineer can install it
By law in Great Britain, gas appliances must be installed by an engineer on the Gas Safe Register. For commercial kitchens, the engineer also needs the right commercial catering qualifications. Not every Gas Safe engineer is qualified for commercial work.
Always ask to see the engineer's Gas Safe ID card and check the back to see which types of work they're qualified for. You can also check their registration on the Gas Safe Register website.
Natural gas or LPG?
Gas appliances are set up for either natural gas (mains) or LPG (bottled). Check which your site uses and which the appliance is set up for. It's on the data plate. Many appliances can be converted, but it must be done by a qualified engineer with the correct parts.
Gas interlocks and ventilation
Most commercial kitchens with gas appliances and mechanical extraction need a gas interlock. It's a system that cuts the gas supply if the extraction fan isn't running. This protects staff from carbon monoxide and gas build-up. If you're fitting out a new kitchen or changing the layout, your engineer will check this.
Safety checks and certificates
After installation, ask your engineer for the paperwork. Commercial catering gas safety is usually recorded on a certificate (often called a CP42). Keep it safe: your insurer, landlord or environmental health officer may ask to see it. Gas appliances should then be checked regularly, usually every year.
What to check on a used gas appliance
- Every burner lights cleanly and stays lit.
- Flame failure devices work (the gas cuts off if the flame goes out).
- No damage to gas pipes, valves or controls.
- The data plate is present and readable.
- The appliance matches your gas type, or can be converted.
Ask us
If you're not sure whether a gas appliance will suit your kitchen, send us a photo of your current setup and the item you're interested in. We'll tell you what's involved, and our engineers can help with installation.