A sharp rise in legal actions against people performing illegal gas work has raised concerns about the risks of hiring unlicensed tradespeople. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), 17 individuals have been convicted for carrying out gas-related tasks without proper qualifications since the start of 2025. This compares to just three convictions in the 2022/23 period and four in 2023/24. Over the past five years, the HSE has investigated and prosecuted numerous individuals for breaking gas safety laws by working on gas appliances without the necessary Gas Safe Register accreditation, which is a mandatory requirement for gas engineers in the UK. As Gas Safety Week begins, the HSE is reminding the public of the potential dangers of improperly installed or maintained gas appliances. These include gas leaks, explosions, fires, and carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be life-threatening. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause serious illness or death if inhaled, making proper installation and regular maintenance of gas appliances crucial for safety. Steve Critchlow, a principal inspector of gas safety at the HSE, highlighted the growing number of convictions against unqualified workers, often referred to as "rogue traders." He stressed the importance of ensuring that any work on gas appliances is done by professionals registered with the Gas Safe Register. Cutting corners on gas work, he warned, could lead to severe consequences, including fatalities. The HSE is urging homeowners and businesses to verify that any gas work is carried out by a qualified and registered professional. This includes checking for the Gas Safe Register logo on the engineer’s identification and ensuring that all work is properly documented and certified. By taking these precautions, individuals can help prevent serious accidents and ensure the safety of their homes and workplaces.