Gas Utility Tag Program
Immediate Safety Information
Overview
A RED Tag or DANGER Tag from FortisBC or Pacific Northern Gas indicates danger and that a gas appliance or installation has been found to present a safety risk. These tags are issued by gas utility professionals to prevent unsafe equipment from operating and to reduce the risk of fire, explosion, and carbon monoxide hazards.
The tag is not a punishment or a fine — it’s a safety action to ensure that dangerous conditions are addressed quickly and properly.
What does a Red or Danger Tag Mean?
If you’ve received a RED Tag or DANGER Tag from Fortis BC or Pacific Northern Gas, it means a serious safety issue has been identified with a gas appliance, system, or installation at your property.
The equipment has been deemed unsafe for continued operation. DO NOT TURN THE APPLIANCE BACK ON. Reactivating it may result in:
- Endangering lives and property including carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, fire and, or explosion.
- A violation under the Safety Standards Act, leading to enforcement action including potential monetary penalties.
What to Do After Receiving a Tag
- Do not turn the appliance back on
- If you need immediate emergency assistance, call 911
- Inform the property owner if you are a tenant
- Hire a licensed gas contractor to assess and repair the issue. Find a Licensed Contractor – here
- Contact Technical Safety BC at 1 866 566 7233 between 8am-5pm to speak with a team member.
- To report an Incident or Hazard please fill in this form.
Important Information for Tenants and Landlords
If the tagged appliance is turned back on or ignored, report it immediately to TSBC. Know your rights and obligations under the Safety Standards Act, regulations and BC tenancy law:
Landlords are legally responsible for ensuring gas appliances provided by them for use by the tenant are:
- Properly maintained
- Inspected regularly
- Repaired by licensed professionals
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Signs and Symptoms
CO is a colourless, odourless gas that can be fatal.
Symptoms include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Loss of consciousness
If you suspect CO exposure, leave the area immediately and call 911.
About Technical Safety BC
Technical Safety BC is a self funded organization that oversees the safe installation and operation of technical systems in BC, including:
- Gas
- Electrical systems
- Boilers, Pressure Vessels and Refrigeration
- Passenger Ropeways and Amusement Devices
- Elevating
- Railways
