Gas leaks in New York can be dangerous, especially when they occur at a construction site. When construction workers are installing and repairing fixtures for the use of natural gas, the danger of a leak can be elevated. The gas is highly flammable and can cause carbon monoxide poisoning to people and animals in a confined space. In addition, a leak can cause a substantially higher risk of serious fires and explosions. In case of a gas leak, it is essential not to continue construction, but to evacuate the site immediately and seek emergency assistance from the fire department or utility company.
There are some signs that could indicate that a gas leak could be present at a construction site. If hissing or whistling noises are heard near a gas line, this could point to a leak. Workers repairing damaged gas pipes should ensure that the gas is turned off; attempting to fix a pipe that is currently in use could lead to a devastating construction site accident. Other signs of leaking natural gas include an odor of rotten eggs or sulfur, bubbling water near a gas fixture or a dust cloud in the area of a gas line.
The physical effects of a gas leak can be significant. Workers may experience trouble breathing, dizziness, fatigue, lightheadedness, headaches, nausea and even mood changes. Some people exposed to gas may blister on contact, while others experience nosebleeds, chest pains and even flu-like symptoms.
A construction site accident involving natural gas could lead to severe workplace accidents and injuries. In some cases, these incidents are caused by companies that fail to follow safety regulations or the use of dangerously defective equipment. People who have been seriously injured in a worksite incident might benefit from consulting with a personal injury lawyer about the potential to seek compensation for their damages.
Source: Medical News Today, “How to recognize a gas leak“, Jayne Leonard, 03/21/2018