Skill: Ground Gas Protection
Ground Gas Protection
The pressure to develop land that could potentially be affected by ground gas is increasing. As a result, the number of sites where ground gas investigation and the provision of reliable protection solutions grows. To meet this need an increasing number of practitioners are now delivering services that will be critical to the health and wellbeing of the workers and occupants of at risk of ground gas within buildings.
Professionals in ground gas lead the way
Leading professionals from all aspects of the professional Ground gas protection industry have are now working together within the Property Care Association to draw together their collective knowledge to create an environment that promotes best practice and the development of knowledge and the creation of a highly skilled professional workforce.
The groups aim is to create a resource where professionals and homeowners can find qualified, skilled and experienced experts who specialize in ground gas protection. And develop training, qualifications and technical guidance that can be used to inform anyone with a need to understand and manage the challenges associated with harmful ground gas.
PCA ground gas protection specialists have a wealth of experience understanding the hazards, the regulations, codes of practice, installation, verification as well as trouble shooting accidental issues if damage is caused by follow on trades.
What exactly is ground gas?
As the term suggest, ground gas is a generic term used to describe a variety of gases that are generated within the ground. The harmful gasses commonly found in the ground include:
- Radon
- Methane
- Carbon Dioxide
- Nitrogen
- Volatile organic compounds (VOC)
Why is ground gas a problem now?
With the introduction of new legislation from the Environment Agency and a greater understanding of ground gas risks, local authorities are now requesting gas protection measures for all developments and property extensions potentially at risk. As such, a much stricter approach is now taken where development is planned on potentially contaminated land.
What is the potential impact of not doing anything?
The impact of not reacting to the potential of ground gases are very serious.
The effects of prolonged exposure to radon on the human body is a significant increase in the risk of lung cancer, while the impact of methane can be explosive. Carbon monoxide is an asphyxiant and high levels of carbon dioxide or volatile organic compounds (VOC) can be toxic.
Along with the effects on health and the risk of fire or even explosion, the potential of the presence of harmful ground gas may affect the appeal and value and of property and can affect the ability to secure a mortgage.
Ground gas protection for homeowners
For homeowners concerned about ground gas, members of the PCA’s Ground Gas Protection Group can provide specialist advice and solutions. Along with help, advice and guidance, members of the Ground Gas Protection Group can be called upon to provide ground gas investigation, design and protection measures and verification.
Ground gas protection for professionals
As a long-established Trade Association, the PCA is now leading the way in developing a greater understanding of ground gases and the potential issues they can cause through continuous training and development.
If you are a professional who has an interest in all things associated with ground gas, you may wish to consider some professional training or qualifications to improve your skills and knowledge. In addition, if you are a contractor who has the experience, knowledge and a history or successful gas protection projects, you may satisfy the strict criteria to become a Property Care Association member.
Find a PCA Qualified ground gas protection specialist
Ground Gas Protection is a highly specialised area and we strongly advise it is undertaken by contractors who have the appropriate knowledge, experience, qualifications and skill levels. Failures resulting from inadequate specifications or poor workmanship can potentially be costly to your health.
To find a Ground Gas Protection specialist near you, simply type in your postcode or town in the search box below.
Enquire about becoming a PCA approved ground gas specialist
For property and ground gas professionals, get in touch to find out more about our training courses and how becoming a registered PCA member can assist you in growing your business.