A GAS LEAK CAN CAUSE A FIRE OR EXPLOSION RESULTING IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
Be aware that the stenching chemical added to gas to make it detectable may not warn of a gas leak or the presence of propane or natural gas to all persons in every instance. Instances where the odorant in an odorized gas may be undetectable include: • Odor intensity may fade or be eliminated for a variety of chemical and physical causes, including the oxidation of rusting pipes, adsorption into or sticking onto the interior of pipes or appliances, or absorption into liquids. • Contact with soil in underground leaks may de-odorize or remove odorant from the gas. • Some people have a diminished ability, or inability to smell the stench. Factors that negatively affect a person’s sense of smell include age, gender, medical conditions, and alcohol/tobacco usage. • The stench of odorized gas may not awaken sleeping persons. • Other odors may mask or hide the stench. • Exposure to the odor for even a short period of time, may cause nasal fatigue, where a person can no longer smell the stench. Gas detectors listed by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) can be used as an extra measure of safety for detecting gas leaks, especially under conditions where the odorant alone may not provide an adequate warning.
Gas detectors emit a loud, shrill sound when gas is present and do not depend on sense of smell. Because the odor intensity can fade or people may have problems with their sense of smell, we recommend installing, per manufacturer’s instructions, one or more combustible gas detectors, in suitable locations to ensure adequate coverage to detect gas leaks. Educate yourself, your employees, and your customers with the content of this warning and other important facts associated with the so-called “odor-fade phenomenon".