How Do Natural Gas Explosions Happen?

Natural gas powers millions of US homes and appliances. In fact, more than 3.3 million Ohio residents use natural gas, while Cleveland alone has 114,424 natural gas customers. Using natural gas is popular, but it can lead to natural gas explosions.

Natural Gas Explosion Contributors

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) reveals there are more than 2.6 million miles of gas pipelines delivering natural gas. Natural gas explosions can occur in the following ways:

1. Pipelines OSHA works with construction companies to regulate natural gas pipeline locations. Despite this, construction companies can improperly determine pipeline locations and cause a rupture leading to an explosion.
2. Accidents Accidents can occur from:
   • Tanker trucks and propane tanks
   • Gas drilling (fracking) trainer refineries and gas build-ups in mines.
   • Incorrect gas hook-ups.
3. Appliances Gas-powered appliances include:
   • Grills, dryers, and gas stoves.
   • Space heaters, water heaters, and pool heaters.
   • Generators, HVAC units, and gas fireplaces.
4. Undetected Gas Leak Natural gas is odorless and hard to detect. However, people might smell “rotten eggs” because sulfur is added to gas to make natural gas leaks detectable:
   • With new construction pipes it’s difficult to notice the egg smell. Leaks can go unnoticed, eventually leading to explosions.
   • With oil refinery plants, outdated equipment can leak gas.
   • Aging neighborhoods and apartments may have cracked pipes that leak gas.

Natural Gas Safety

Smell gas? If you suspect a natural gas leak in your home, do the following to avoid a house gas explosion:

• Make sure stove burners are off.
• Use flashlights, not light switches which can cause sparks.
• Open doors and windows. Check gas meters and call 911.

Natural Gas Explosion Injuries

Gas explosions can cause debilitating or even life-threatening injuries. Injuries can include:

• Fractures, crush injuries, and contusions.
• Loss of hearing or vision.
• Lacerations, burns, and hemorrhage.
• Concussions, shock, and compartment syndrome.
• Blast lung injuries or air embolism injuries.

Friedman, Domiano & Smith

Friedman, Domiano & Smith is an injury law firm with over over 45 years of experience. When you need a car accident lawyer or a medical malpractice lawyer in Northeast Ohio, know that their experienced lawyers can help you receive the compensation and damages you and your family deserve. To speak to an explosion lawyer about a Cleveland natural gas explosion, contact FDS Law today at (800) 280-0070 for a free initial consultation.