Much like GAS SAFE was for gas, Oftec are watchdogs of oil safety within the UK,
Oil Firing Technical Association for the Petroleum Industry (OFTEC) are also in
partnership with Building Regulations in an effort to stamp out rogue engineers
and improve overall quality and standards within the oil fired industry. Although
not as long standing as GAS SAFE, Oftec offer the same core values, excellence and
safety for consumers, knowledge and standardisation for oil engineers. Oftec registered
engineers are trained to Government and British standards and should be the only
people who maintain, service or install your oil fired heating or cooking appliances.
What do Oftec do?
Again Oftec offer similar assistance to oil safety as GAS SAFE does to gas safety,
“It is our mission to promote excellence in oil heating and cooking” Oftec. Oftec
keep an up-to-date register of approved oil engineers that can be referred to by
consumers and authorities alike to either find an approved engineer or to check
the eligibility of an engineer., Oftec also offer assistance to consumers and engineers
regarding safety information, regulations and general technical know how. Oftec
are self appointed watchdogs of oil heating and cooking and provide the foundation
for safer working practices.
You should use an Oftec registered engineer because they:
- Are individually trained at an OFTEC Approved Training Centre, and their skills
independently assessed before they can apply for OFTEC Registration
- Have their work inspected from time to time by an OFTEC Inspector
- Are re-assessed every five years to maintain their Registration
- Carry an identity card confirming the type of oil heating work for which they are
registered
- Have to hold appropriate insurance to work in your home
- Are able (in England and Wales) to self-certify work for which they are Registered.
This saves you time and money, as non-Registered technicians must, by law, notify
Local Authority Building Control, or submit plans when installing oil-fired appliances.
- Will leave with you a written statement of the work they have done on your appliance,
replacement parts fitted and recommendations for work needed in the future.