The union GMB has written to the Information Commissioner calling for the new (former CORGI) register to be investigated, for publishing photo identities of GMB gas workers without their permission.
GMB, the gas workers union, has written to the Information Commissioner asking for an investigation of a new Gas Safe Register on the grounds that it may breach data protection legislation. Published on this register, without permission, are the photographs of GMB gas engineers. GMB members contend that the Gas Safe ID can be easily downloaded and could be a source for forged identity papers. This could lead to gas workers being impersonated and unauthorised personnel gaining entry to properties. This new Register is operated by CAPITA.
In his letter Gary Smith, GMB National Secretary for the Energy Industries told the Information Commissione: “GMB is the largest trade union in the Gas Industry representing tens of thousands of gas workers. On behalf on our members I am writing to register our concern about the operation of the new Gas Safe Register. I understand that this service is run by Capita. I will also be writing to Capita direct about our concerns. However, I hope that you could investigate the following complaint.
It seems that a new website has been launched for the Gas Safe Register. On which there are many hundreds, if not thousands of listings, for gas engineers who are on the Gas Safe Register. As part of these listings it seems that photographs of the individual gas engineers, as well with their name, registration number and licence number are included along with their full company details.
Many of our members are concerned that the information and in particular their photographs have been posted without their prior knowledge or consent. Very worryingly, it is perfectly possible to copy and change the details on the website’s model Gas Safe ID card, and quite easy to actually change the photographs, to produce a fake ID. Apart from the risk this poses to our members through identify theft, it clearly will be a matter of concern, not least to the most vulnerable in our society who require gas services.
I would be grateful if you could keep me advised of developments within the investigation. I will be writing under separate cover to the Minister for Health & Safety.”
