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
Louisville sewer explosions Louisville sewer explosions The Louisville sewer explosions were a series of explosions on February 13, 1981, that destroyed more than of sewer lines and streets in the center of Louisville, Kentucky. The explosions resulted in extensive damage to property and infrastructure and four people were injured, but none of the injuries were serious and there were no fatalities. The blasts were caused by the ignition of hexane vapors which had been illegally discharged from a Ralston-Purina soybean processing plant located near the University of Louisville. The plant, located on Floyd Street, was a long-standing landmark built early in the century