What is BCGA?

BCGA is the British trade association representing companies involved in all aspects of the industrial gases industry.

The term "industrial gases" refers to gases such as acetylene, argon, ammonia, carbon dioxide, chlorine, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, etc., used in a wide range of applications. It also covers speciality gases and equipment used in the electronics, food, scientific and medical sectors. BCGA does not represent the interests of the compressed air or natural gas industries.

Who are its members?

The membership of BCGA, currently just under seventy companies, includes manufacturers and distributors of gases, manufacturers of gas cylinders, manufacturers of equipment used with gases (principally gas regulators and gas welding and cutting equipment) and designers and installers of pipework systems for the distribution of gases. This describes the activities of full member companies.

Associate membership is available to companies, organisations and individuals who have a technical, training or other interest in the work of BCGA and who wish to become more closely associated with its activities. Typically Associate members are consultants and training providers.

What does BCGA hope to achieve?

BCGA's objectives are to ensure the safe use, storage and transportation of industrial gases. We promote and advise on safe practice, participate in standards-making and provide Government departments and agencies with expert advice to assist in the preparation of practicable and relevant legislation that applies to the industry and its customers.We also maintain a close rapport with other organisations as appropriate to our core objectives.


Advice on safe practice

The current list of BCGA publications can be found on this website, many of which are available to download free, though the more substantial texts are priced.

BCGA publications are approved through expert technical committees drawn from member companies. They are accepted as industry standards and are recognised as such by the regulatory authorities.

New publications are prepared when guidance is needed on new developments in the industry or when new Regulations come into force. Existing publications are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure they are kept up to date.

In preparing its publications, BCGA works closely with HSE and makes frequent reference to its publications and leaflets. A list of HSE publications can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/.

Standards

BCGA has substantial representation on the committees of BSI, CEN and ISO in order to contribute to standards which will be beneficial in the fields of safety and commerce. To go to the ''Standards work'' page click here.

Legislation

BCGA seeks to anticipate and influence legislation at the formative stage by offering the practical knowledge and expertise of its members, but also does so during the formal consultation process that precede the introduction of new legislation in the UK.

Affiliated Organisations

BCGA is affiliated to the following organisations: