When preparing gas pipes, regulators, appliances, equipment and apparatus for service or returning them to service, do not purge their contents into a confined space. Any purging of gas should only be done in a well-ventilated area or by venting the contents into the outside atmosphere.
Before purging, make sure you identify and eliminate all sources of ignition, including but not limited to standing pilots, open flames, cigarettes, appliances and equipment. Consult the Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code, Fuel Gas Code, appliance and equipment manufacturer’s instructions and/or your local Building and Safety Department for more information.
Natural gas has a distinctive odorant added that aids in the detection of the gas.
However, conditions such as “odorant fade” can cause the odorant to diminish or lessen in intensity so that it may not be detectible. In addition, other odors in the area may mask the odorant in the gas so that it may not be detectible. Persons with a diminished sense of smell may also not be able to smell the odorant.
Always use gas detection devices during purging operations and DO NOT rely on your sense of smell alone to detect the presence of natural gas.
Last updated: January 30, 2009