During normal use, a gas fired appliance produces products of combustion (referred to as POC’s) which can accumulate within enclosed spaces and can be harmful to the health and wellbeing of those in the same environment.

These “Outdoor-only” appliances by design require an abundance of free air in excess of what would be naturally available in an enclosed space.

It is vitally important to always check the suitability of an appliance before purchasing and installing.   This will save you frustration, time and money later on. So, check the information provided by the appliance manufacturer.  For example, refer to the user instruction/installation manual that accompanies the appliance or check the manufacturers website.

Example: An appliance instruction manual for a contact Chargrill

The appliance data plate

“Outdoor use only” is an appliance that cannot be used within any enclosed space or walled structure.

Where you see this referred to in the manufacturer’s instructions for a gas appliance then these appliances are not suitable or intended to be installed in or on recreational vehicles or conversions thereof.  They are also not suitable for use in semi-permanent structures such as wooden kiosks and containers.  They may be suitable for use in gazebos in certain circumstances which include provision for adequate ventilation e.g. all sides of the gazebo removed and a suitable risk assessment on the safe use and positioning must also be in place.

Some examples include single pizza portable ovens, BBQ’s, contact grills, open burner rings, camping stoves etc. Many of these are flueless and designed for occasional leisure/ personal use outdoors only. For example, used in a garden to entertain family and friends in a small gathering scenario.

It has been noted that some of these unsuitable appliances e.g. outdoor only pizza ovens, have started incorrectly making their way into commercial catering units such as converted vehicles and trailers.

Do your research, be mindful not to fall into the trap, find out how the manufacturer intended for the appliance to be used and where.  Having these incorrectly sited and installed in an indoor environment at the very least would be classified as At Risk and could be reportable under RIDDOR to the Gas Safe Register and the Health & Safety enforcing authority (local authority).

If in doubt ask your local Gas Safe Registered LPG Engineer.  As an NCASS member you can log into your member dashboard and search for your nearest Gas Engineer Partner (GEP) – tried and trusted engineers competent in LPG.

 Examples of manufacturer instructions

The following are examples of where the suitability and usage of appliances is outlined within the manufacturer’s instruction manual.

The instruction manual for a commercial BBQ

The instruction manual for a hog roast machine

The instruction manual for a pizza oven

The instruction manual for a pizza oven

More information

Remember to refer to the NCASS Gas Safety Checklist for Gazebos, Tents or Marquees which is included within the NCASS SMS. The checklist will allow you to comprehensively assess the safety of your LPG set up and details the open and close procedures.

For more useful advice and information check out all the previous features “LPG Safety in the Spotlight” on the NCASS Gas Hub.

Check out our free guides on the NCASS Gas Hub Free Resources area. https://www.ncass.org.uk/gas-safety-week-resources/

Are you looking for a Gas Safe Registered LPG engineer? Find your nearest Gas Engineer Partner (GEP) – tried and trusted engineers competent in LPG. Log into the members only gas engineer page.