Sewer gas Sewer gas Sewer gas is a complex mixture of toxic and nontoxic gases produced and collected in sewage systems by the decomposition of organic household or industrial wastes, typical components of sewage. Sewer gases may include hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, methane, esters, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Improper disposal of petroleum products such as gasoline and mineral spirits contribute to sewer gas hazards. Sewer gases are of concern due to their odor, health effects, and potential for creating fire or explosions. Sewer gas is typically restricted from entering buildings through plumbing traps that create a water seal at potential
Merrimack Valley gas explosions his smoke alarm went off; as he was extinguishing it he heard a boom from a neighbor's house and the ground shook. All of the fires were put out by 6:45pm. One man was killed when a chimney fell on his car, twenty-five others were reported injured, and Lawrence General Hospital received three patients including one firefighter. Once it was realized that the fires were being caused by over-pressurized gas mains, residents whose gas is supplied by Columbia Gas were told to evacuate their homes. There is no indication that foul play was involved. Gas services for approximately 8,000 residents