How to Record a Gas Safety Video for Your Health and Safety System

Recording a gas safety video for your Health and Safety System ensures that everyone in your organisation understands the serious risks associated with gas appliances and their role in preventing incidents. Gas appliances such as ovens, cookers, and boilers can cause fire, explosion, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide poisoning if not properly installed and maintained. Your video content must cover the regulatory requirements, maintenance standards, and emergency procedures that keep people safe.

This guide takes you through the process of creating comprehensive gas safety training content that protects both workers and the public from the serious hazards that poorly managed gas systems present.

Step 1: Set the Scene and Context

The opening of your gas safety video needs to establish immediately why this topic matters and the potentially fatal consequences of inadequate control. Viewers must understand that gas safety directly affects their lives before you explore the technical requirements.

Opening with the Risks

Begin your video by explaining the dangers that gas appliances present when not properly managed. This context helps viewers appreciate why gas safety receives such significant attention and why their cooperation with safety measures protects everyone.

Sample script for your opening:

"Today we're covering gas safety in the workplace. Gas appliances like ovens, cookers, and boilers are common in many workplaces, and when properly installed and maintained they're safe to use. But when gas appliances aren't properly looked after, there's a real danger of fire, explosion, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous because you can't see it or smell it, but it can kill. This video explains how we manage gas safety and what you need to know to help keep everyone safe."

Establishing the Legal Framework

Your video should outline the duty to comply with gas safety regulations. Understanding this legal context helps viewers appreciate that gas safety isn't optional - it's a legal requirement designed to protect workers and the public.

Talking points for the legal framework:

• The organisation has a duty to comply with relevant gas safety regulations
• These regulations exist to help ensure worker and public safety
• Compliance requires using competent, registered engineers
• Regular maintenance and inspection are legal requirements
• Failure to comply puts people at serious risk and breaches the law

Sample script for explaining the legal context:

"We have a legal duty to comply with gas safety regulations. These regulations exist to protect you and everyone who might be affected by our activities. The law requires us to use properly registered engineers, maintain our equipment, ensure adequate ventilation, and train our staff. This isn't about paperwork - it's about making sure no one gets hurt or killed by gas that isn't properly managed."

Who Has Responsibilities

Explain clearly who holds responsibilities for gas safety within your organisation. Responsible Persons have specific duties, but everyone has a role in maintaining safety and reporting concerns.

Sample script for responsibilities:

"Responsible Persons in our organisation have specific duties for gas safety. They must make sure we use competent engineers, that equipment is properly maintained, and that safety systems are in place. But gas safety isn't just their responsibility - everyone needs to play their part. If you smell gas, notice a problem with an appliance, or see something that concerns you, reporting it could save lives. Never assume someone else has already reported it."

The Consequences of Poor Gas Safety

Without creating unnecessary alarm, your video should acknowledge what happens when gas safety fails. This reinforces why the topic deserves serious attention and why everyone must engage with the safety arrangements in place.

Talking points for consequences:

• Fire from gas leaks can spread rapidly and cause devastating damage
• Gas explosions can destroy buildings and cause multiple fatalities
• Carbon monoxide poisoning can kill without any warning
• Even non-fatal exposure can cause serious long-term health problems
• Incidents affect not just employees but potentially the public too

Sample script for consequences:

"When gas safety fails, the consequences can be catastrophic. Gas leaks can cause fires and explosions. Carbon monoxide from poorly maintained or badly ventilated appliances can kill - and because you can't see or smell it, people often don't know they're being poisoned until it's too late. Every year, people die from preventable gas incidents. The safety arrangements we have in place exist to make sure that doesn't happen here."

Step 2: Plan What to Record vs Write

Your gas safety content works best as a combination of video explanations and written reference materials. This section helps you decide which elements benefit from visual demonstration and which should remain as documents that viewers can consult when needed.

Content That Works Well on Video

Certain gas safety topics benefit significantly from video format. Visual explanations help viewers understand concepts that might seem abstract in written form, and seeing real examples makes the training more memorable.

Topics ideal for video recording:

• Overview of the dangers associated with gas appliances
• Explanation of why Gas Safe registration matters
• Introduction to maintenance requirements and their purpose
• Description of ventilation requirements and why they matter
• Explanation of carbon monoxide risks and symptoms
• Overview of emergency procedures for gas leaks or smells
• Staff responsibilities and how to report concerns
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them
• What to do if you suspect an appliance is unsafe

Sample script introducing video content:

"In this video, I'll explain the dangers of gas appliances, why we only use Gas Safe registered engineers, and what maintenance and ventilation requirements we must follow. I'll cover what you should do in an emergency and how to report concerns. For the detailed maintenance schedules, service records, and specific procedures, you'll find those in our written documentation."

Content Better Suited to Written Documentation

Some gas safety information requires precision and regular reference that video format cannot provide effectively. These elements should be maintained as written documents that complement your video training.

Topics better as written materials:

• Maintenance schedules for specific appliances
• Service records and certification
• Contact details for Gas Safe registered engineers
• Specific procedures for different emergency scenarios
• Ventilation requirements for specific installations
• Inspection checklists and completion records
• Gas shut-off system locations and operation instructions
• Training records and competency assessments

Structuring the Video-Document Relationship

Your video should signpost viewers towards written documentation at appropriate moments. This creates a coherent training system where video provides understanding and documents provide operational detail.

Sample script linking to documentation:

"The written procedures contain all the specific details - maintenance schedules, emergency contact numbers, shut-off locations, and record-keeping requirements. What I want to explain in this video is why gas safety matters and how our whole system works together to keep everyone safe. Once you understand the principles, the written procedures will make much more sense."

Planning Your Recording Structure

Map out the specific sections of your video before recording. A clear structure ensures you cover all essential topics without unnecessary repetition and helps viewers follow the logical progression of information.

Suggested video structure:

1. Introduction and why gas safety matters (2-3 minutes)
2. The dangers: fire, explosion, gas leaks, carbon monoxide (3-4 minutes)
3. Gas Safe registered engineers explained (2-3 minutes)
4. Maintenance and inspection requirements (4-5 minutes)
5. Ventilation and why it matters (2-3 minutes)
6. Emergency procedures and shut-off systems (3-4 minutes)
7. Staff responsibilities and reporting (2-3 minutes)
8. Common mistakes to avoid (4-5 minutes)
9. Summary and key takeaways (2-3 minutes)

Step 3: Explain the Core Rules and Requirements

This section of your video must convey the fundamental requirements for gas safety. Viewers need to understand what the regulations require, how maintenance works, and what safety systems must be in place.

Using Competent Engineers

The requirement to use competent, Gas Safe registered engineers is fundamental to gas safety. Your video must emphasise that no one else should work on gas appliances.

Sample script for competent engineers:

"Responsible Persons must ensure that only competent engineers install, maintain, or repair our gas appliances. In the UK, that means Gas Safe registered engineers. The Gas Safe Register is the official list of engineers who are qualified to work safely and legally on gas appliances. Before any engineer works on our gas equipment, their registration must be verified. Never let anyone work on gas appliances unless you've confirmed they're properly registered."

Talking points for Gas Safe registration:

• Gas Safe Register replaced CORGI in 2009
• Engineers must be registered for the specific type of work
• Registration can be verified online or by calling Gas Safe
• Unregistered work on gas appliances is illegal
• Using unregistered engineers puts lives at risk

Maintenance of Pipework, Appliances, and Flues

Regular maintenance is essential for safe gas operation. Your video should explain what must be maintained and how often.

Sample script for maintenance:

"Gas pipework, appliances, and flues must be regularly maintained. This isn't optional - it's how we prevent the dangerous situations that lead to fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning. A competent engineer must service mains gas equipment on an annual basis, or more regularly if required. Some appliances in heavy use may need more frequent attention. The maintenance schedule should be based on manufacturer recommendations and the actual usage of the equipment."

Talking points for maintenance:

• Annual servicing is the minimum standard
• Heavy-use equipment may need more frequent servicing
• Maintenance includes pipework, not just appliances
• Flues must be checked for blockages and proper function
• All maintenance must be carried out by Gas Safe registered engineers

Ventilation Requirements

Adequate ventilation is critical for safe gas appliance operation. Your video must explain why ventilation matters and what adequate ventilation means.

Sample script for ventilation:

"All rooms with gas appliances must have adequate ventilation. Gas appliances need air to burn fuel properly. Without enough ventilation, combustion is incomplete, and that produces carbon monoxide. Adequate ventilation also ensures that any gas leaks disperse rather than building up to dangerous concentrations. Never block or cover ventilation grilles, and report any concerns about ventilation to a Responsible Person immediately."

Talking points for ventilation:

• Gas needs oxygen to burn completely
• Incomplete combustion produces carbon monoxide
• Ventilation allows gas leaks to disperse safely
• Ventilation requirements vary by appliance type and size
• Blocking ventilation can create fatal conditions

Staff Training Requirements

Staff who use or work near gas appliances need appropriate training. Your video should explain what training involves and why records matter.

Sample script for training:

"We must provide suitable and sufficient training to staff to enable them to use and work safely with gas appliances. Training covers how to operate appliances correctly, what to look out for, and what to do if something seems wrong. All training must be recorded so we can demonstrate that everyone has received the information they need. If you haven't received gas safety training, or if you're asked to do something you haven't been trained for, speak up."

Reporting Procedures

Clear reporting procedures ensure that problems are addressed promptly by competent people. Your video must encourage staff to report concerns.

Sample script for reporting:

"We encourage staff to report any instance where there's a problem with gas appliances or where there's a smell of gas. When you report a concern, arrangements can be made for the issue to be investigated by a competent engineer. Don't try to fix gas problems yourself - that's not your job and it could make things worse. Report it, and let the experts deal with it. Your report could prevent a serious incident."

Not Using Unsafe Appliances

Staff must understand that suspected unsafe appliances must not be used until checked by a competent engineer.

Sample script for unsafe appliances:

"Staff must not use any appliances known or suspected of being unsafe. If an appliance isn't working properly, if there's an unusual smell, if the flame looks wrong, or if you have any doubt about whether it's safe - don't use it. Report it immediately so a competent engineer can check it. Using a faulty appliance risks your life and the lives of everyone around you. When in doubt, don't use it."

Gas Shut-Off Systems

Emergency shut-off systems provide rapid isolation of gas supplies when needed. Your video should explain what these systems are and when they're used.

Sample script for shut-off systems:

"We have gas shut-off systems installed for use in emergencies. In the event of fire, or if there's a smell of gas, these systems allow the gas supply to be isolated quickly. Everyone should know where the emergency shut-off points are and how to use them. In an emergency, shutting off the gas can prevent an incident from becoming catastrophic. We'll show you the locations as part of your induction."

Monitoring and Review

Ongoing monitoring ensures gas safety arrangements remain effective. Your video should explain this continuous improvement approach.

Sample script for monitoring and review:

"We monitor and review the systems in place to maintain gas safety. This includes checking that maintenance is happening on schedule, that records are complete, that training is up to date, and that any issues raised have been properly addressed. Gas safety isn't something we set up once and forget - it requires ongoing attention to ensure our arrangements remain effective as circumstances change."

Step 4: Demonstrate or Walk Through the Process

This section of your video shows viewers how gas safety works in practice. Walking through actual processes helps viewers understand what happens and how the various elements connect.

Walking Through the Maintenance Process

Explain what happens during routine gas appliance maintenance. This helps viewers understand why maintenance is scheduled and what engineers check.

Sample script for maintenance walkthrough:

"Let me walk you through what happens during routine gas maintenance. A Gas Safe registered engineer visits according to our maintenance schedule - at least annually for each appliance. They check the appliance is operating correctly, inspect pipework and connections for leaks or damage, examine flues to ensure combustion gases are venting properly, and test safety devices. They'll also check that ventilation is adequate. After the service, they provide documentation confirming what was done and any issues found."

Demonstrating Reporting Procedures

Walk viewers through how to report gas safety concerns. Show the process from initial concern through to resolution.

Sample script for reporting walkthrough:

"If you notice a problem with a gas appliance or smell gas, here's what to do. First, if it's safe to do so, stop using the appliance. Then report it immediately to your supervisor or the Responsible Person. Give as much detail as you can - what you noticed, where, and when. The Responsible Person will arrange for a competent engineer to investigate. The appliance stays out of use until it's been checked and confirmed safe. You'll be told the outcome, and everything gets recorded."

Walking Through Emergency Procedures

Explain what happens in a gas emergency. Show the sequence of actions that should be taken if gas is smelled or an incident occurs.

Sample script for emergency walkthrough:

"If you smell gas or suspect a leak, act immediately. Don't switch anything electrical on or off - that includes lights. Open windows and doors to ventilate the area. If you know where the emergency gas shut-off is and can reach it safely, use it to isolate the supply. Leave the area and make sure others do too. Report it immediately. Don't go back in until a competent engineer has investigated and confirmed it's safe. In a serious situation, call the emergency services."

Showing Ventilation Checks

Walk through how ventilation is checked and maintained. Help viewers understand what adequate ventilation looks like.

Talking points for ventilation checks:

• Ventilation grilles should be clear and unobstructed
• Air should be able to flow freely to and from the appliance
• Signs of inadequate ventilation include condensation and stale air
• Ventilation is checked during maintenance visits
• Changes to rooms can affect ventilation adequacy

Sample script for ventilation walkthrough:

"Ventilation checks are part of our regular maintenance, but everyone can help by being aware of what to look for. Ventilation grilles should never be blocked or covered. If you notice condensation building up in areas with gas appliances, or if the air seems stale, that could indicate inadequate ventilation. Report any concerns. When rooms are modified or furniture is rearranged, think about whether ventilation might be affected."

Demonstrating Record-Keeping

Walk through the documentation that supports gas safety. Show examples of records and explain what they demonstrate.

Sample script for record-keeping walkthrough:

"Every gas safety activity generates records. Maintenance visits are documented with details of what was checked and any findings. Training is recorded so we can show who's been trained and when. Incident reports capture what happened and how it was resolved. These records aren't just paperwork - they demonstrate that we're managing gas safety properly, and they help us spot patterns that might indicate developing problems."

Step 5: Highlight Common Mistakes

Identifying common mistakes helps viewers understand where gas safety often fails. Present each mistake with clear signs that indicate it's happening and practical ways to avoid it.

Mistake 1: Using Unregistered Engineers

Signs this is happening:

• Engineers cannot produce Gas Safe registration cards when asked
• Work arranged through informal contacts rather than verified contractors
• No verification of registration before work begins
• Cheaper quotes from engineers who can't prove their qualifications
• Work done by general maintenance staff rather than gas specialists

How to avoid it:

• Responsible Persons must ensure competent engineers are used
• Always verify Gas Safe registration before any gas work
• Check registration is valid for the specific type of work needed
• Use the Gas Safe Register website or phone line to verify
• Maintain a list of approved, verified contractors

Mistake 2: Missed or Delayed Maintenance

Signs this is happening:

• Service dates pass without maintenance being completed
• Appliances running for extended periods without inspection
• Maintenance scheduled but repeatedly postponed
• No systematic tracking of when services are due
• Reactive approach - only calling engineers when things break

How to avoid it:

• Source competent engineers to service equipment on an annual basis or more regularly
• Implement a maintenance scheduling system with reminders
• Book services well in advance to ensure availability
• Treat maintenance as a priority, not something to be fitted in
• Track all appliances and their service requirements centrally

Mistake 3: Blocked or Inadequate Ventilation

Signs this is happening:

• Ventilation grilles covered or blocked by equipment or storage
• Rooms with gas appliances modified without considering ventilation
• Condensation and stuffiness in areas with gas appliances
• Staff unaware that ventilation matters for gas safety
• No checks on ventilation as part of routine inspections

How to avoid it:

• Ensure all rooms with gas appliances have adequate ventilation
• Never block or cover ventilation grilles
• Consider ventilation impact before making changes to rooms
• Include ventilation checks in routine inspection schedules
• Train staff to understand why ventilation matters

Mistake 4: Insufficient Staff Training

Signs this is happening:

• Staff operating gas appliances without proper instruction
• No records of who has been trained on what
• Training done once and never refreshed
• Staff unaware of emergency procedures
• Assumptions that training isn't needed for simple operations

How to avoid it:

• Provide suitable and sufficient training for all staff who use gas appliances
• Record all training provided with dates and content
• Include refresher training at appropriate intervals
• Cover emergency procedures as well as normal operation
• Assess understanding, not just attendance at training

Mistake 5: Not Reporting Concerns

Signs this is happening:

• Problems with appliances known but not formally reported
• Staff fix or work around issues rather than reporting them
• Culture where raising concerns is discouraged or ignored
• No clear procedure for how to report gas safety concerns
• Delay between problems being noticed and reported

How to avoid it:

• Encourage staff to report any problems or smell of gas
• Make reporting easy with clear procedures and contacts
• Respond promptly to reports so staff see action being taken
• Never dismiss or minimise concerns that are raised
• Thank people for reporting - it shows the system working

Mistake 6: Using Appliances Known to Be Faulty

Signs this is happening:

• Appliances with known faults still in use
• "It's been like that for ages" attitude to problems
• Pressure to keep using equipment despite concerns
• Waiting for a convenient time to take appliances out of service
• Underestimating risks from seemingly minor faults

How to avoid it:

• Staff must not use appliances known or suspected of being unsafe
• Take faulty appliances out of service immediately
• Clearly mark appliances that shouldn't be used
• Arrange prompt investigation by competent engineers
• Never pressure staff to use equipment they're concerned about

Mistake 7: No Emergency Shut-Off Awareness

Signs this is happening:

• Staff don't know where gas shut-off points are
• Shut-off points blocked or inaccessible
• No training on when and how to use emergency shut-offs
• Shut-off systems not tested to confirm they work
• Assuming someone else will handle emergencies

How to avoid it:

• Install suitable gas shut-off systems for emergencies
• Train all staff on shut-off locations and operation
• Keep shut-off points accessible at all times
• Test shut-off systems regularly to confirm function
• Include shut-off procedures in emergency drills

Mistake 8: Poor Record-Keeping

Signs this is happening:

• Maintenance records incomplete or missing
• Training records not maintained
• Incident reports not documented
• Records exist but can't be found when needed
• No systematic approach to documentation

How to avoid it:

• Record all maintenance, training, and incidents
• Store records securely with clear organisation
• Review records regularly to confirm completeness
• Make record-keeping part of the process, not an afterthought
• Use records to inform monitoring and review

Mistake 9: No Monitoring and Review

Signs this is happening:

• Gas safety arrangements set up then never checked
• No one reviews whether systems are working
• Same problems recurring without systematic response
• Compliance assumed rather than verified
• Changes to operations not reflected in gas safety arrangements

How to avoid it:

• Monitor and review systems to ensure they remain effective
• Schedule regular reviews of gas safety arrangements
• Investigate recurring issues to identify root causes
• Update arrangements when circumstances change
• Use monitoring findings to drive improvement

Mistake 10: Assuming Gas Safety Is Someone Else's Problem

Signs this is happening:

• Staff believe gas safety is only for maintenance teams
• Concerns not raised because "that's not my job"
• Responsible Persons assumed to know about problems without being told
• Siloed thinking where gas safety sits in one department
• General staff disengaged from gas safety topics

How to avoid it:

• Communicate that everyone has a role in gas safety
• Make clear that reporting concerns is everyone's responsibility
• Include gas safety awareness in general staff training
• Recognise and thank staff who raise concerns
• Create a culture where safety is everyone's business

Step 6: Summarise the Key Takeaways

Close your video by reinforcing the essential messages. This summary helps viewers retain the most important information and understand their core responsibilities for gas safety.

Essential Messages to Reinforce

Sample script for summary:

"Let me summarise the key points about gas safety. Gas appliances that aren't properly installed and maintained can cause fire, explosion, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide poisoning - all of which can kill. We have a legal duty to comply with gas safety regulations to protect workers and the public. That means using only Gas Safe registered engineers, maintaining our equipment regularly, ensuring adequate ventilation, and training our staff. Everyone must report concerns and never use appliances suspected of being unsafe."

Individual Responsibilities

Remind viewers of their personal role in gas safety regardless of their specific job function.

Sample script for personal responsibilities:

"Whatever your role, you contribute to gas safety. If you're a Responsible Person, make sure only competent engineers work on gas appliances and that maintenance happens on schedule. If you work with gas appliances, use them as you've been trained and report any concerns immediately. Know where the emergency shut-offs are. If you smell gas or notice something wrong, don't ignore it - report it. Your vigilance could prevent a tragedy."

The Serious Nature of Gas Risks

Emphasise that gas safety deserves serious attention because the consequences of failure are severe.

Sample script for risk emphasis:

"Gas risks are serious. Fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide poisoning can all result from poor gas safety, and all of them can kill. This isn't an area where we can afford to cut corners or assume things are fine. The safety arrangements we have in place exist because gas can be dangerous when it's not properly managed. Take gas safety seriously - your life and the lives of others depend on it."

Linking to Resources

Direct viewers to additional resources and support available to them.

Sample script for resources:

"The written procedures contain details of maintenance schedules, emergency contacts, and shut-off locations. If you have questions about gas safety, speak to your supervisor or the Responsible Person. If you smell gas or have an immediate concern, report it straight away. The procedures and training are there to protect you and everyone else."

Final Call to Action

End with a clear statement of what you want viewers to do with the information.

Sample script for closing:

"Gas safety works when everyone plays their part. Understand how to operate gas appliances safely. Report any concerns without delay. Know what to do in an emergency. Never use appliances you suspect might be faulty. By following these principles and the procedures in place, we maintain a safe environment for everyone. Thank you for taking gas safety seriously."

Recording Best Practices for Gas Safety Content

When recording your gas safety video, these practical tips help create effective training content.

Visual Considerations

Consider what visuals will support understanding of gas safety concepts.

Visual suggestions:

• Images of common gas appliances in your workplace
• Examples of Gas Safe registration cards and how to verify them
• Ventilation grilles and what adequate ventilation looks like
• Emergency shut-off points and how to operate them
• Warning signs that indicate potential problems

Presenting Safety Information Clearly

Gas safety involves life-or-death information that must be presented with appropriate seriousness.

Tips for presentation:

• Maintain a serious but not alarmist tone
• Emphasise consequences without causing unnecessary fear
• Be very clear about what viewers must and must not do
• Repeat critical messages like "never use unsafe appliances"
• Allow time for important points to register

Maintaining Appropriate Tone

The topic is serious and should be presented as such. Balance the genuine risks against confidence that proper management keeps people safe.

Tone guidance:

• Serious and professional throughout
• Confident that the safety arrangements work when followed
• Respectful of the genuine dangers involved
• Clear about non-negotiable requirements
• Encouraging of questions and concern reporting

Length and Pacing

Structure your video to maintain engagement while covering all necessary content.

Pacing suggestions:

• Keep individual sections focused and concise
• Spend appropriate time on emergency procedures
• Don't rush through safety-critical information
• Build in natural breaks between major topics
• Total length of 25-30 minutes is appropriate for this topic

Conclusion

Your gas safety video forms an essential part of your Health and Safety System. By covering the dangers of gas appliances, explaining the requirement for Gas Safe registered engineers, walking through maintenance and ventilation requirements, and highlighting common mistakes, you create training that genuinely protects people from serious harm.

The key to effective gas safety training is helping viewers understand both why the requirements exist and what they personally need to do. When people appreciate that fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide poisoning are real possibilities from poorly managed gas systems, they engage with safety procedures rather than treating them as inconveniences.

Regular review of your video content ensures it remains current with any changes to your gas installations or safety arrangements. Gas safety requires ongoing vigilance, and your training should reflect the serious attention this topic demands.