Gas Utilisation 2025: Safety in the spotlight

On 18 March, we held our Gas Utilisation conference at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull. The focus of this year’s event was looking at people first and safety always.

Kicking off was IGEM President David Tomkin who gave the opening address and welcomed attendees. He said: “This conference is a highlight for me as we are the real problem solvers of the industry. We know one thing for sure, gas engineers will find a way of getting things done.

"The downstream gas industry isn’t just a sector, it’s a collection of gas engineers who everyone turns to when something goes wrong. You are trusted professionals and people believe in you, ensuring families are safe and making sure everything’s running smoothly. We are a fundamental part of the journey.”

The first session was chaired by Steve Critchlow from the Health and Safety Executive and explored key safety topics shaping the industry.

It featured Mussa Awaleh from the Health and Safety Executive discussing the Building Safety Division on industry competence and the building regulatory system. Attendees also heard from Nick Evans from Blue Flame Associates as he provided insights on DSEAR regulations and Neville King from DNV shared lessons from LPG safety incidents.

An engaging Q&A panel followed, sparking key discussions on industry safety.

Following a refreshment break, session two then kicked off with Chair Laura-Lee Oxley from Calisen, this session explored the evolving training landscape:

Richard Harper from Energy & Utility Skills first took to the stage and examined the future of ACS. Following saw Simon Gadsdon from SGAS introduce the I-GAS accreditation scheme and Steve Critchlow from the Health and Safety Executive gave an introduction to understanding and measuring gas combustion.

A thought-provoking Q&A panel followed, focusing on workforce development and skills training.

Then it was time for a lunch break, providing ample opportunities for networking and engaging with the exhibition.

With a focus on people, session three was then initiated by Chair Jonathan Kane of Kane International Limited.

Ateendees heard from Claire Alcock of Capita Plc on the latest updates from the Gas Safe Register, David Garner of Cadent who addressed the growing danger of gas theft and Shaun Bennett of Derby Homes on the role of social landlords in decarbonising homes.

Delegates then took the chance to quiz session three’s speakers.

Finally, Director of Blue Flame Associates Andy Durber shared how IGEM/UP/1B Edition 4 is currently undergoing a review and what updates are planned.

Closing this year’s conference was Trevor Smallpeice, Chair of the Large Business Forum by thanking attendees for taking the time to come and wished everyone a safe journey home.

A big thank you also goes to sponsors: Cadent, Kane International Limited, National Gas, Northern Gas Networks, SGN and Wales & West Utilities and exhibitors: Abriox, Automa, Cadent, Gas Safety Shop, Geberit, Kane International Limited, MW Polymers, MX Reality, Steve Vick International, Teledyne Gas Measurement Instruments and Tower Supplies.

Photos available here: Gas Utilisation 2025 album.