All gas installations and appliances must be installed by a licensed gas fitter. The Technical Regulator is responsible for monitoring and regulating the safety and technical standards of gas installations and appliances. To meet technical standards, gas installations and gas appliances must comply with the requirements of the Gas Act 1997. Australian Standards AS 5601 and AS 3814 are called up by the Act. These Standards relate to installations and to the design and construction of type B gas appliances (mainly industrial appliances). Domestic gas appliances must comply with the requirements of various approved Standards published by Standards Australia.

Materials and components used in gas installations must also be approved or comply with defined Standards as referenced in AS 5601 Appendix B and AS 3814 Appendix C. Nominated Australian Standards prescribe methods of testing which, when complied with, meet the requirement of the Gas Act 1997 and may provide a defence against prosecution.

The licensing of gas contractors and workers is the responsibility of the Office of Consumer and Business Affairs (OCBA). However, the Technical Regulator works closely with OCBA on licensing and inspection issues, providing technical expertise and jointly interviewing contractors when necessary.

Consumers' Gas Installation

The consumer's gas installation commences at the gas meter outlet or LP Gas cylinder valve and consists of pipes to convey the gas to the appliances as well as the appliances themselves. The installation may also include the flues and ducts which carry the burnt products of combustion to atmosphere, distribute warm air, and provide fresh air to the appliance.

Presently there are approximately 415 000 natural gas and reticulated LP gas installations in South Australia.