Safety- NATURAL GAS

Safety

Processed natural gas is colorless and essentially odorless. Since it is also very flammable, it is important that natural gas leaks be detected before a fire or explosion occurs. For that reason, very small amounts of a mercaptan such as t-butyl mercaptan, with a strongly unpleasant smell, is added to the natural gas as an odorant. Such odorants are considered non-toxic in the extremely low concentrations at which they are used. Odorizing of natural gas began in the United States after the 1937 New London School explosion in the town of New London, Texas. The buildup of gas in the school's basement went unnoticed, killing three hundred students and faculty when it ignited.

In coal mines, where any coalbed methane that may be present has no odor, methane sensors are used, and mining equipment has been specifically developed to avoid ignition sources.

Explosions caused by natural gas leaks occur a few times each year. Individual homes, small businesses and boats are most frequently affected when an internal leak builds up gas inside the structure. Frequently, the blast will be enough to significantly damage a building but leave it standing. In such cases, the people inside tend to have minor to moderate injuries. Occasionally, the gas can collect in high enough quantities to cause a deadly explosion, disintegrating one or more buildings in the process. The gas usually dissipates readily outdoors, but can sometimes collect in dangerous quantities if weather conditions are right. However, considering the tens of millions of structures that use the fuel, the individual risk of using natural gas is very low.

Natural gas heating systems are a minor source of carbon monoxide deaths in the United States. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission,56% of unintentional deaths from non-fire carbon monoxide poisoning were associated with engine-driven tools like gas-powered generators and lawn mowers. Natural gas heating systems accounted for 4% of these deaths. Improvements in natural gas furnace designs have greatly reduced CO poisoning concerns. Carbon monoxide detectors are also available that warn of unsafe levels of carbon monoxide and/or explosive gas (methane, propane, etc.).