Common Causes of Gas Explosions

About the Causes of Gas Explosions

A gas explosion occurs when there is a gas leak combined with an ignition source. A variety of explosive gases exist, including methane, propane, natural gas, and butane. These gases are widely used throughout the world for heating purposes.

Over the years, thousands of people have been killed in gas explosions, and many of these tragic events have occurred while industrial workers were installing or repairing natural gas pipelines.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a gas explosion, call Zinda Law Group at (800) 863-5312 for a free consultation with a skilled gas explosion attorney.

What Are the Causes of Gas Explosions?

Often, during the coldest seasons of the year, we hear of gas explosions that kill an entire family as a result of a faulty gas heater or leak in the gas lines. Recently, we have heard of troubling situations where the gas lines coming to and from a home simply wear out or rust, allowing gas to escape.

Any type of fire, flame, or even a spark can set off accumulated pockets of gas. In September 2010, a natural gas pipeline explosion in a San Francisco suburb ignited a massive fire that killed 4, injured dozens more, and leveled 37 homes. Several residents in this neighborhood had reported the smell of gas weeks before the explosion, but according to reports, the natural gas utility that owned the pipeline never responded to the calls for help. The official investigation revealed worn-out couplings and pipelines along the street which caused the incident. Below are a few of the major causes of gas explosion:

• Improper use of gas furnace, stove, or appliance, including leaking due to hooking up gas lines incorrectly
• Old, worn-out, rusty gas lines coming from the street into your home
• Defective equipment, including gas grills, acetylene torches, and other equipment that uses gas as a power or fuel source
• Violations of codes and standards governing the safe handling of gas or propane
• Faulty manufacturing procedures used in building gas tanks for automobiles

A number of shocking cases have occurred where auto manufacturers have utilized sub-standard products when installing gas tanks in certain automobiles and trucks. Many of these cases have resulted in the gas tank exploding during a minor auto accident. Tragic events like gas explosions can leave families devastated. Family members who do survive may require a lifetime of medical care, medications, and procedures.

Causes of Gas Cylinder Explosion At Home

Here are some of the common causes of gas cylinder explosions at home:

1. Gas cylinder leaks

Can a gas leak cause an explosion? Yes! One of the top causes of home gas cylinder explosions is gas leaks. Leaks can occur from faulty valves, loose pipe fittings, cracked hoses, or damaged regulators. The leaking gas can accumulate and ignite from a small spark, leading to an explosion. So regularly check all gas fittings for leaks to prevent this.

2. Improper storage of gas cylinders

Storing gas cylinders improperly can also lead to leaks or damage resulting in explosions. Store your cylinders upright, secured in place, and not kept near heat/flame sources or in enclosed spaces without ventilation. Those improper storage practices put them at risk of explosion.

3. Faulty appliances

Using appliances with damaged pipes, broken valves or connections to the gas cylinder can cause gas escapes. Regular maintenance and checks of gas stoves, geysers etc can avoid accidents due to appliance issues.

4. Inadequate ventilation

Gas cylinders consume oxygen when the gas burns. Using them in tightly closed rooms without ventilation can deplete oxygen levels. This can lead to gas accumulating and cause an explosion with the smallest sparks. Proper ventilation is a must.

5. Mishandling cylinders

Attempting to change, tamper with or force open cylinders can damage valves. Trying to transfer gas between cylinders can also cause explosions, so following usage guidelines is important.

Follow gas cylinder safety measures related to storage, leakage checks, appliance connections, and ventilation. Being aware of causes like these can help avoid accidents

Our Gas Explosion Lawyers Can Help

If you or a family member has sustained an injury from a gas explosion, Zinda Law Group will fight tirelessly to help you seek the compensation you deserve. These types of lawsuits are often very complex, but our gas explosion lawyers understand the laws governing the gas and propane industry, which are upheld by numerous federal, state and local agencies, and have helped clients in cases where a manufacturer or supplier was found to be at fault.

To learn more about your legal rights, call Zinda Law Group at (800) 863-5312 for your free consultation with one of our experienced gas explosion lawyers. Meetings with attorneys by appointment only,