The Heating Equipment Testing and Approvals Scheme (HETAS), the only specialist organisation approving biomass and solid fuel heating appliances, fuels and services, is joining forces with the Association of Professional and Independent Chimney Sweeps (APICS), the National Association of Chimney Sweeps (NACS) and the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps to influence legislation, organisations, government departments and standards committees.

The Group will draw on the strengths of the independent organisations and will meet to deal with common safety concerns and support awareness initiatives such as Chimney Safety Week. The unique access of chimney sweeps will be used to influence consumer safety and awareness.

This partnership of equals is intended to create a stronger voice for educating the UK public on chimney and flue issues, with the core aim of reducing air pollution and chimney-related accidents.