19/09/2026
ILLEGAL GAS INSTALLATION
In South Africa, gas installations are strictly governed by the Occupational Health and Safety Act and specifically the Pressure Equipment Regulations (PER). The technical standards for these installations are detailed in SANS 10087-1.
Key Legal Requirements
•Mandatory Certification:
All fixed gas installations (stoves, geysers, fireplaces) must have a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) issued by a registered gas practitioner.
•Registered Installers Only:
It is illegal to install gas appliances yourself. Installations must be performed by a practitioner registered with SAQCC Gas.
•Property Sales:
A new CoC is legally required whenever a property with a gas installation is sold or transferred to a new owner.
•2024 Update:
A new standard, SANS 10087-1:2024 (Edition 7), was released on 30 August 2024. All new installations must comply with this version, while existing ones remain under the 2013 standard unless major modifications are made.
Safety Distance Regulations (External Cylinders)
LPG cylinders must be placed at specific minimum distances from potential hazards
•Doors & Windows:
At least 1 metre sideways from any opening (doors, windows, or airbricks).
•Drains & Pits:
At least 2 metres away to prevent gas (which is heavier than air) from pooling in low areas.
•Electrical Points:
At least 5 metres from any switchable electrical point, motor, or pump (e.g., pool pumps).
•Boundary Walls:
At least 1 metre away, unless the wall is a "firewall" (double brick, >1.8m tall).
•Ignition Sources:
Light bulbs must be at least 1.5 metres above the cylinder.
Indoor Installation Rules
•Max Capacity:
In houses/clusters (up to 2 storeys), a maximum of 19kg of gas is allowed indoors. In flats, the limit is 9kg.
•Cupboards:
If a cylinder is in a cupboard, it must have permanent ventilation (at least 60cm² at both top and bottom).
•Prohibited Areas:
Fixed gas cylinders are strictly forbidden in garages, basements, or bedrooms.
•Hose & Piping:
The orange flexible hose must not exceed 2 metres and cannot pass through any wall or partition.
Maintenance & Insurance
•Validity:
While a CoC generally proves compliance at the time of installation, it is recommended to have installations inspected every 3 years or annually for insurance purposes.
•Insurance Risks:
ALL insurance companies will reject claims for fire or explosion damage if a valid CoC from a registered installer cannot be produced.
To verify if an installer is legitimate, you can check their credentials on the SAQCC Gas Official Website.
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De Beer Project Solutions
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