Natural gas is one of the most widely used fuel sources in the United States, powering appliances and heating homes, businesses, and water. While it’s generally safe when used correctly, a natural gas leak could have serious consequences. Recognizing natural gas exposure symptoms empowers you to act quickly in the event of a leak, protecting yourself and others from harmful health effects and injuries. For victims of short- or long-term exposure in the workplace, understanding your legal rights and protections is equally important.  

Signs of a Natural Gas Leak

Some hazards related to fuel sources are easy to see, such as the fracking dangers that exist on drill sites. Natural gas leaks are more difficult to detect, but there are usually signs of danger. 

Recognizing the Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell 

The most reliable way to identify a natural gas leak is through scent. It’s an odorless substance, but gas companies add a strong smell to minimize safety risks. An unpleasant odor, similar to rotten eggs or sulfur, is one of the first warning signs that natural gas is leaking. 

Identifying Hissing Sounds 

Natural gas ordinarily moves silently through pipes. However, if a gas line develops a hole or crack, you might hear a hissing sound like releasing air from a balloon. If you hear this sound, quickly close the gas valve to stop the leak. 

Observing Dead Patches in Landscaping 

When previously healthy vegetation suddenly withers, a gas leak could be to blame. Underground leaks prevent plants from absorbing the oxygen they need. Look for unexpected changes in the landscape, such as brown or dead vegetation, especially if it occurs in a small area rather than throughout the entire lawn. 

Health Risks of Natural Gas Exposure 

A natural gas leak affects your oxygen intake, causing you to feel unwell and putting your life at risk. Common short-term symptoms of exposure to natural gas include: 

• Headaches
• Dizziness 
• Nausea
• Breathing difficulties 
• Throat and eye irritation
• Ringing ears
• Drowsiness
• Reduced appetite

These natural gas inhalation symptoms can develop following even a small amount of exposure. If high levels of natural gas are present or if you experience ongoing low levels of exposure, you may develop more lasting health concerns. These include chronic respiratory problems and fatigue, as well as psychological effects, such as anxiety, confusion, and nervousness. In the worst cases, a natural gas leak can cause unconsciousness or even death. 

People sometimes confuse exposure to natural gas symptoms with carbon monoxide poisoning because they pose similar threats. Unlike natural gas, however, carbon monoxide has no smell, which is why it’s crucial to have carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home or workplace. 

Environmental Indicators of a Gas Leak 

Your immediate environment could offer a hint about whether gas lines are leaking. Start by looking at the grass, plants, and trees around you. Natural gas deprives plants of oxygen by pushing it out of the soil, so dying or wilting vegetation is one indicator of a leak. In addition, a recent study found that natural gas leaks can cause premature death of trees in the surrounding area. 

The displacement of oxygen can also destabilize the soil around the leak, creating loose soil and air pockets that you might notice as soft or uneven spots. This, in turn, can cause shifting or cracking in a building’s foundation, putting the entire structure at risk. 

To identify gas leaks, keep an eye out for other unusual changes. For example, you might see a white mist near the ground that forms because the gas leak creates condensation. You might also notice bubbles in outdoor puddles of water following a heavy rain. They appear as the underground gas forces oxygen up through the soil. 

Preventive Measures for Homeowners 

Some natural gas leaks are unavoidable because of pipe degradation and wear that occurs over time. However, you can lower the chances of experiencing a leak in your home with a few simple steps. One of the most important things you can do is have a professional regularly inspect your gas appliances, including stoves and furnaces. Preventive maintenance can also minimize the risk of leaks and cracks developing. In addition, you should keep areas around gas-burning appliances and equipment unobstructed to prevent gas buildup.

For an extra layer of protection, homeowners should install and maintain natural gas detectors. These small devices monitor the air for leaks and alert you when natural gas is present. Place the detectors near any gas appliances in your home, and avoid installing them beside windows where fresh air could interfere with their readings. Some manufacturers offer combined carbon monoxide and natural gas detectors, which can help prevent both natural gas exposure and carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Emergency Response to Gas Leak Symptoms 

If you suspect natural gas is leaking into your home or workplace, don’t attempt to locate or repair the leak on your own. Remain calm and steer clear of any potential ignition sources, including switching lights on or off and using lighters or matches. 

The top priority in this situation is the safety of yourself and those around you, including pets. If you suspect a leak, immediately evacuate to a place that’s a safe distance from the building in case of a fire or explosion. Leave any doors and windows open as you exit so the gas doesn’t continue to accumulate inside. 

While contacting emergency services is a critical step, wait until after you have left the building. Your cell phone could generate sparks that might ignite the natural gas. When it’s safe, contact 911, the local fire department, or the utility company’s emergency number. They will send a professional to the site to manage the leak and inform you when it’s safe to return. 

While you wait for assistance, remain outside the building, and don’t allow anyone to enter. Evaluate the severity of your symptoms and if necessary, call an ambulance or go to the emergency room. However, if your car is parked close to the home or in an attached garage, don’t turn it on as it could ignite the nearby gas.

Legal Rights and Protections for Workers 

Although natural gas exposure often happens at home, it can also occur at work. Employees who suffer health effects due to a natural gas leak at their workplace have legal rights and protections, including: 

• Worker’s compensation: You can file a worker’s compensation claim that may cover your medical expenses for any health issues you developed due to natural gas exposure at work. To do so, you’ll need to notify your employer about your health concerns and follow your state’s filing process. 
• OSHA regulations: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has regulations for natural gas leaks in the workplace. If you feel that your employer is failing to follow these regulations and limit your exposure to natural gas, you can file a complaint with OSHA online, over the phone, by mail, or in person. 
• Negligence lawsuit: Victims of natural gas exposure may also choose to file a civil lawsuit against their employer. In this claim, you can seek compensation for medical bills, lost or reduced wages, and pain and suffering. 

Your employer is responsible for ensuring that your workplace is safe through steps such as providing you with appropriate personal protective equipment. When it doesn’t meet that standard, you have every right to hold the company accountable for its mistakes or carelessness. 

Resources and Support for Affected Workers 

Victims of natural gas exposure often need support as they deal with their health struggles. In addition to OSHA, you can also reach out to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which can give you information about natural gas exposure and conduct an investigation into the hazardous conditions in your workplace. 

Your state may also have an office that assists victims of work incidents like natural gas leaks. Finally, reach out to medical doctors and mental health counselors for support in managing your ongoing symptoms. 

Natural Gas Exposure Symptom FAQs

What are the symptoms of overexposure to natural gas? 

The symptoms of natural gas exposure include difficulty breathing, discomfort in your eyes and throat, tiredness, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. When exposed, your skin might also appear paler than normal, unlike carbon monoxide exposure, which causes the skin to turn pink or red. If natural gas has come in contact with your skin, wash the affected areas with soap and water. If you experience blistering, paleness, or numbness, contact Poison Control. 

Can a slow gas leak make you sick? 

Yes, a slow gas leak can cause chronic health conditions, including respiratory problems and lethargy or fatigue. It may also affect your psychological health, resulting in anxiety, nervousness, and restlessness. 

How long does it take for a gas leak to harm you? 

The amount of time it takes to experience the effects of natural gas depends on the size of the leak. If low levels of gas are escaping, it could take several days or weeks for you to notice symptoms. On the other hand, a large leak can cause you to feel ill within minutes. 

Protecting Yourself and Your Legal Rights

Natural gas exposure can have a significant impact on your present and future health. Maintaining awareness of how this exposure occurs and what you should do if you suspect a leak is the best way to reduce your risk of developing physical symptoms. If you have experienced harmful health effects due to natural gas exposure, a knowledgeable attorney can help. Contact Morris & Dewett to learn more about your options.