BASC & HSE working together to improve gas safety for gamekeepers

Friday, 20 June 2008 12:00 AM

Plans by BASC to hold a series of gas safety awareness days have been brought forward following a number of incidents recently involving gamekeepers and the use of LPG gas cylinders on the rearing field.

In one of the incidents, a gamekeeper and his wife were seriously injured with the keeper suffering 75 per cent burns. BASC's first thoughts are with those affected, and their families. Other incidents while not causing serious injury have been potentially very dangerous.

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation, which has 5,000 gamekeeper members, is working with the Health and Safety Executive and a leading gas engineering consultant to provide instruction for members. The first of these awareness days was to have taken place next year, but has now been brought forward to July. It is likely to be held in the south of England. Further details will be released shortly.

Each of the days will include practical instruction and training on the safe storage and handling of LPG cylinders, LPG hazard awareness and the maintenance of gas equipment.

BASC's gamekeeping and game shooting officer, Tom Blades, said: "BASC is committed to raising standards. As we know the work of the gamekeeper is often hazardous and through these awareness days we hope to highlight the issues surrounding the safe use of LPG on the rearing field, ultimately to ensure keepers are safer in their work."

ENDS

For more information please contact the BASC press office on 01244 573031

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