Gas and Petroleum Emergencies
What to do if you suspect a leak
Signs of a Petroleum Pipeline Release
- A Strange or unusual smell in the area of pipeline.
- Discoloration of vegetation surrounding the pipeline in an otherwise green area.
- Bubbling in wet areas, marshlands, rivers or creeks, or an oily or multi-colored sheen appearing on water surfaces.
- Flames originating from the ground or valves along the pipeline route.
Petroleum Hazards
- Petroleum products are flammable, may be poisonous if inhaled and may contain chemicals that cause cancer.
- Petroleum products may have a gaseous odor, their vapors are heavier than air and will tend to collect in low-lying areas.
Signs of a Propane Pipeline Release
- A slight mist of ice or a frozen area on exposed pipes, valves or the ground.
- A dense white cloud of fog.
- Propane is odorless and transported in pipelines as a high-pressure liquid that will vaporize if released into the air.
Propane Hazards
- Propane is extremely flammable and explosive.
- Propane is heavier than air; will tend to collect in low-lying places and may form a liquid pool.
- Contact with propane liquid may result in frostbite.
Signs of a Natural Gas Pipeline Release
- A loud roar or squeal from the area of a pipeline.
- A natural gas odor.
- Fire or explosion.
- Continuous flying debris or water from an excavation or pipeline.
- Bubbling in wet areas, marshlands, rivers or creeks.
Natural Gas Hazards
- Natural gas is flammable and explosive.
- Natural gas will displace air and cause dizziness or loss of consciousness.
- Natural gas is lighter than air and will rise from a leak source.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT A LEAK
- Do leave the area or building immediately, by foot, in a direction away from the vapors and fumes.
- Do avoid anything that could cause the vapors to ignite.
- Do not light a match, start an engine, operate any electrical device (telephone, light switch, doorbell, garage door opener, etc.). Avoid carpeted areas that could cause a static electric spark.
- Do not take time to open windows, turn off pilot lights or other equipment.
- Do not ventilate the affected area. It will make detecting the specific site of the leak virtually impossible.
- Do call Security at X6999 and Physical Plant at X6602 and/or the fuel supplier from a remote location.
- Do not drive into or near the area around the leak.
- Do not try to extinguish a fire on a pipeline or operate any pipeline equipment.
- Do warn others to stay away from area.
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