Public Safety – Leak Event of Natural Gas in a Public Area
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This paper showcases the results of the
accidental detection of a nearby natural gas leak from a
new subdivision under construction.
Introduction
This particular monitor was deployed for
R&D testing when the methane sensor picked up a
random natural gas leak. The TerraAir solar-powered air
monitor provides continuous, outdoor air monitoring
using multiple sensors. The acquired data is sent to the
cloud via LTE communication where it is databased and
accessed by a customized dashboard. This test monitor
happened to be equipped with a methane sensor which
detected the leak.
Results and Analysis
The incident spanned three days,
with the primary leak event persisting for about 14 hours.
The methane sensor registered concentrations exceeding
500 parts per million (ppm) during this period. Despite the
air monitor not consistently aligning with the prevailing
wind direction according to local wind data, and positioned
roughly 500 feet away from the construction site, it
successfully detected the leak.
Discussion
The accidental detection of a natural gas
leak during the testing of an air monitor equipped with a
methane sensor near a construction site underscores the
importance of proactive monitoring in potentially
hazardous environments. The timely detection of the gas
leak, even during a routine test, demonstrates the
effectiveness of continuous monitoring systems in
identifying potential safety hazards. This early detection
can help prevent more serious consequences, such as
explosions or environmental damage
Conclusion
The proximity of the air monitor to the construction site raises concerns about the safety practices and procedures in place at such sites. Construction activities can disturb underground infrastructure, including gas pipelines, leading to leaks. Implementing strict safety protocols and regular monitoring can help mitigate these risks. The fact that
the air monitor detected the leak even when not directly in the path of the wind indicates its sensitivity and reliability. This underscores the importance of using advanced monitoring systems in industrial and construction settings to ensure early
detection of potential hazards.. The accidental detection of a natural gas leak during air monitor testing serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and safety measures in preventing and mitigating environmental and safety hazards.