By definition a portable appliance is readily transportable. Movement of an appliance can put a strain on installation pipework and fittings, potentially leading to gas leaks. To reduce the risk of these happening, flexible hose must be used to connect the appliance with the installation pipework.
 | All flexible hoses, if not pre-manufactured, must be fixed to hose nozzles and not straight onto copper pipe. Hoses clipped to pipework without nozzles tend to leak past the joint as the hose ages, presenting a serious risk to you and those around you. [7.13] |
The method of connection between a portable appliance and the gas isolation valve must allow for the regular connection and disconnection of the gas supply, whilst minimising the risk of any leak. To help achieve this, flexible hoses must be connected to the isolation valve by means of a bayonet, plug-in or screwed connection. Bayonet and plug-in connections have a secondary means of closing off the gas supply. If a screwed connection is used a secondary means of shutting of the gas supply must be provided on your boat, i.e. it must be properly plugged or capped when the appliance is not connected. [7.14]