Yes guy's. You're quite right. It hasn't been isolated, just turned off at the user controls and a sticker saying at risk.
But when you're in your 70's and a bit vulnerable, that's as good as turning off the supply.
I feel sure that when the boiler was first installed, it met all the current regulations of the time, and was a proper and professional job. As usual, it's the regulations, or perhaps, the interpretation of the regulations that have changed.
Look at the Austin Mini/ Leyland Mini/ Rover Mini, what ever banner it was made under, as an example. That very successful little car went out of production, purely because it couldn't comply with the latest regulations. I believe it was "drive by noise" and "crumple zones" that killed it. In other words, some red tape fascist decided that if you crashed it, you may hurt yourself........................ No s**t sherlock! and it had to go.
My kids can't play conkers in the school playground anymore, or use swings without special rubber matting, or climb trees etc etc the list is endless. I put my M-in-L's experience in the same group. labelled: "Paranoia"
Again, thanks for the interesting and worthwhile replies.
Flash.