A gas leak in a corporate or industrial facility is a serious emergency that requires immediate action to protect employees, equipment, and the workplace environment. Natural gas is odorless, but utility companies add a substance called mercaptan to give it a distinct, sulfur-like or skunk-like smell. If you detect this odor, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here’s what you need to do:
Signs of a Gas Leak
- Rotten egg or sulfur-like odor
- Hissing or whistling sound near gas lines or equipment
- Dead or dying plants near gas lines or within the facility
- Bubbles in standing water outside
- Dizziness, nausea, or headaches experienced by personnel indoors
Immediate Actions to Take
- Evacuate Immediately
- Ensure all employees and personnel evacuate the facility as soon as a gas leak is suspected.
- Follow your organization’s emergency evacuation plan and muster at a designated safe location.
- Do Not Use Electrical Devices
- Avoid turning on or off lights, using phones, or operating industrial machinery.
- A spark from an electrical device can ignite gas fumes.
- Do Not Open Windows or Doors
- Opening windows or doors may increase the risk of ignition by disturbing the gas concentration.
- Do Not Light Flames
- Avoid smoking, using matches, or operating industrial burners or welding equipment.
- Shut Off Gas Supply (If Safe to Do So)
- Locate the facility’s main gas shutoff valve and turn off the gas supply if it is safe to do so.
- This can help prevent further leakage until professionals arrive.
- Call for Help from a Safe Distance
- Once safely outside, contact emergency services or your gas utility company immediately.
- You should also contact a trusted HVAC specialist like Temple Air Conditioning and Heating at (626) 324-8036 to inspect and repair any issues with your facility’s gas lines or heating system.
Preventing Future Gas Leaks
- Schedule regular inspections of gas lines, industrial equipment, and HVAC systems.
- Install carbon monoxide and gas leak detectors throughout the facility.
- Replace outdated or damaged gas-operated machinery and infrastructure.
- Educate employees on gas safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
Call Temple Air Conditioning and Heating for Expert Assistance
Temple Air Conditioning and Heating provides professional HVAC maintenance, gas leak detection, and repair services for corporate and industrial settings. If you suspect a gas leak or need routine maintenance, contact Temple Air Conditioning and Heating at (626) 324-8036.
Acting quickly in the event of a gas leak can prevent workplace hazards, protect personnel, and ensure business continuity. Always prioritize safety and rely on professionals to handle gas-related emergencies effectively.
Temple Air Conditioning and Heating 