FFD / FSD

As the above title suggest, FFD is short for 'Flame Failure Device'. An FFD has also been referred to as a FSD, which is short for 'Flame Supervision Device'. However, out of the two terms, the gas industry now prefers to use FSD rather than FFD.

An FFD / FSD is an important aspect of any new gas cooker, as it is now a legal requirement for some homes in the UK. The requirement was enforced on the first of January in 2008.

The type of homes effected are,

1. Flats
2. Apartments
3. Maisonette
4. Student accommodation
5. Any other type of multi-dwelling building

For further information about the FFD / FSD regulations, you need to read the 'General Gas Procedures'. Clause 8.2.1 and the stipulation of IGE/G/5 should cover FFD/FSD compliance. The 'General Gas Procedures' pdf can currently (2010) be found at IGEM.

The FFD / FSD works by cutting out the gas supply once the flame goes out on a gas hob, grill or oven. The flame supervision / failure device has already been installed on Lpg appliances, but there is no date for introducing them into electric cooking appliances.

Manufacturer's were somewhat slow to introduce FFD devices into gas cookers. On the 1st of January 08 there were not that many cookers to choose from with this specification.

The added cost of FFD has ensured that entry level gas cookers have not become FSD compliant. This has meant that owners of multi-dwelling buildings will have the added cost of buying a gas cooker from the medium to high price range.