The investigation into the fatal gas explosion in Haxby has concluded there was no evidence of any crime or breaches of health and safety law.
A detailed invesigation has been carried out into the blast which destroyed a house in Springwood, Haxby near York on February 19, and caused the death of resident Paul Wilmott.
In a joint statement from North Yorkshire Police, the Health and Safety Executive and Gas Safe Register, they say that a joint investigation by North Yorkshire Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has found no evidence of any criminality or breaches of health and safety law that require further investigation, and no further action will be taken by either organisation.
A report will be passed to HM Coroner for the inquest into Mr Wilmott’s death, which will be held at a later date.
What was the cause of the explosion?
The cause has been established as:
• The explosion resulted from the fracture of a gas pipe buried in the property’s concrete floor. This resulted in an uncontrolled gas escape which ignited, causing the explosion.
• The copper pipe was installed when the property was constructed in the early 1970s. Whilst it was not protected in anyway, it was installed in accordance with the standards of the day.
• No evidence was found of recent gas work at the property or interference with the pipe that could have affected its integrity.
• The pipe showed evidence of corrosion over a long period of time. The pipe fractured at the point where two different concrete slabs which formed the floor of the property met.
• There is evidence that the two slabs had moved, placing unsustainable forces on the pipe. Bad weather prior to the explosion had resulted in the ground surrounding the property becoming waterlogged. This could have led to ground movement causing the floor slabs to move.
The devastated scene in Springwood, Haxby, after a gas explosion destoyed a house and severely damaged other neighbouring properties Pic: Frank Dwyer
What is the advice for any concerned residents?
Gas Safe Register say gas pipework buried in concrete does not generally pose a significant risk This was a very unusual type of failure, caused by a combination of an unprotected pipe buried in the concrete floor, high ground moisture and resultant ground movement.
"However we understand that local residents may be concerned. They may wish to consider contacting a local gas safe registered gas engineer to undertake a safety check of the gas pipework and appliances at their property - and to take their advice on what course of action is appropriate."
It is very important that a registered engineer is used as they are the only ones legally permitted to work on gas.
The Gas Safe Register will be contacting registered engineers in the Haxby area to advise them on how to support residents.
Contact details of registered engineers can be found on the Gas Safe Register’s website: https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/find-an-engineer/ or by phoning 0800 408 5500.
What should concerned tenants do?
Your landlord has a legal duty to ensure that the pipework and appliances in your home are safe. Ask to see a copy of your landlord’s latest gas safety certificate.
Detective Chief Inspector Allan Harder, who led the North Yorkshire Police investigation, said: “While it was a very unusual set of circumstances that led to this tragic incident, it is important that residents know what caused the explosion and that they can make an informed decision about what to do next, based on the advice from Gas Safe Register.
“Our thoughts remain with the family of Paul Wilmott who continue to receive support from specially trained police officers.”
Mr Wilmott was 63, and had lived in York all his life. His family, including his partner Olivia and son Ian, said he was "the kindest, gentlest person".
He had worked for many years at Leeds Beckett University as the specialist sound engineer with the video production unit.
He had also been a long-sering volunteer with York Hospital Radio, and did many outside broadcasts as their technical officer, including from the York Barbican and York Minister, as well as the Joseph Rowntree Theatre and the Theatre Royal.
He joined the station in 1972 and served as its membership officer, training officer and technical officer for many years, ensuring two studios stayed on air 24 hours a day, using the latest technology.
Colleagues paid tribute to him, with chairman Ian Clennan saying they were devastated by the shocking news about Paul who had served the station tirelessly.
After Mr Wilmott's death, Mr Clennan said: “It is no exaggeration to say that Paul’s drive and enthusiasm have contributed hugely to the success and development of York Hospital Radio over many years, and helped keep the station abreast of technology and progress over the decades.
“We simply would not be on air now without him. His contribution will be hugely missed, and his death leaves a massive hole in the organisation, which will never truly be filled.”
http://www.yorkpress.co.uk/news/14351965.Demolition_begins_at_house_affected_by_Haxby_explosion/
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