Media release: Gasfitter’s actions posed potential risk to public safety

A gasfitter has been fined after a court found his actions at a Melbourne home posed a potential risk to both the resident and the community. 

Taylor Brady pleaded guilty to recklessly tampering with a gas meter and failing to comply with safety standards while working at a rental property at St Albans in April 2021.  

The Sunshine Magistrates’ Court heard Mr Brady was a registered gasfitter working for a company trading as Sam’s Local Plumbing Melbourne when he went to the home where a gas-ducted heater had stopped working.  

Mr Brady did not inspect the heater but instead removed the meter bend pipe, which was connected to the gas meter. He then tested for a gas leak and advised the tenant there was a major leak under the house which would cost about $4,950 to repair.

Mr Brady left without sealing the gas meter or properly sealing the gas line connected to the home, later telling inspectors from Energy Safe Victoria he used duct tape to seal the line. 

The court heard duct tape does not meet safety standards and that Energy Safe’s investigation found there was nothing to indicate there was a gas leak at the property and the gasfitter’s actions were not reasonable. 

 “A failure to use a proper seal raises the risk of an uncontrolled gas leak and that’s dangerous for anyone in the area,” said Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson. 

“People working with gas must prioritise safety to protect themselves and the community from risks that can be avoided.” 

Mr Brady was fined $1,800 as it was noted the matter was a public safety issue. No conviction was recorded. 

Sam’s Local Plumbing Melbourne was previously convicted and fined $20,000 over its involvement in the matter. The company was in voluntary liquidation at the time of sentencing on 30 November 2023. 

 ENDS  

Energy Safe. Always.

Media contact: Nicole Butler M: 0477 572 378 l media@energysafe.vic.gov.au