Explosion in Yanjiao's Basement Shops: Similar Incidents Happening Frequently! Can Gas Explosions Occur at Home?

On March 13, 2024, an explosion occurred in a restaurant in the basement shops of an old residential area in Yanjiao, Sanhe City, Langfang City, resulting in 7 deaths and 27 injuries.

A quick glance at the news reveals that such incidents are far from rare. Why Gas Causes Explosions and How to Use it Safely

Gas explosions have been responsible for numerous tragedies, often resulting in casualties and significant economic losses. But why do these explosions occur, and what can we do to ensure safe usage?

What is Gas and Why Does it Explode?

Gas, in general, refers to various gaseous fuels, including natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), and artificial gas. Let's focus on the most commonly used ones: natural gas and LPG.

Natural Gas: Natural gas mainly consists of methane, with traces of ethane, propane, and other hydrocarbons. It is transported through pipelines and, although it contains minimal carbon monoxide, incomplete combustion can produce this toxic gas. Due to its lower density than air, natural gas tends to rise and disperse quickly.

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): LPG primarily comprises propane and butane and is stored and transported in sealed steel cylinders. LPG is denser than air, so in case of a leak, it tends to accumulate in low-lying areas, posing a risk of suffocation.

Both types of gas are highly flammable. When mixed with air within a certain concentration range (approximately 5% to 15% for natural gas), they become explosive. The ignition sources can vary, including sparks from impacts or friction, as well as electrical switches.

Gas explosions are particularly devastating due to the rapid release of energy, resulting in high temperatures and shock waves comparable to those from explosives. Moreover, these incidents often occur in enclosed spaces, concentrating the force of the explosion.

Additionally, gas leaks leading to explosions can ignite nearby combustible materials, exacerbating the fire and explosion hazards. The smoke produced during combustion contains toxic substances, posing further risks to individuals.

Gas Safety Measures: Where to Start?

Gas supply systems can broadly be categorized into piped gas (such as natural gas) and cylinder gas (like LPG). Regardless of the type, prevention of leaks is paramount.

Piped Gas (Natural Gas, Artificial Gas): Gas pipelines, akin to our circulatory system, consist of numerous joints and valves that may develop vulnerabilities during installation or due to geological factors. Stringent standards govern the design, materials, and construction of gas pipelines, with mandatory testing and alarm systems in critical areas.

Cylinder Gas (LPG): Steel cylinders, along with associated valves, hoses, and appliances, are used for storing and utilizing LPG. Proper handling and storage of these cylinders are essential to prevent leaks and accidents.

While adherence to quality standards, proper installation, and regular inspections are theoretically sufficient for safety, real-world incidents reveal a myriad of causes contributing to accidents. These include aging hoses, unauthorized modifications, third-party construction damages, and substandard appliances, among others.

In conclusion, understanding the properties of gas and implementing rigorous safety measures are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with gas usage and prevent tragic accidents. So, there are quite a few things to keep in mind when using gas in our daily lives. Let's talk about it.

For home gas safety, here's what you can do:

Considering that gas safety is quite extensive and requirements vary across different domains, let's focus on the principles of gas safety for our everyday residential use.

Let's start with the most common: natural gas pipelines.

First and foremost, when it comes to installing or adjusting natural gas-related appliances, it's crucial not to hire unqualified workers or attempt DIY fixes. Always seek professional gas company personnel and certified installers for stoves, gas water heaters, etc., who follow regulations and conduct inspections. This approach helps to prevent numerous hazards from the outset.

Here are some additional details:

1. If you suspect a gas leak, ventilate the area by opening windows instead of turning on lights directly.
2. When checking for leaks, apply soapy water to suspected areas to inspect for bubbles.
3. If a gas leak is suspected, first shut off the household gas valve and then contact the local gas company for assistance.
4. In case of a gas outage, check and close all gas valves to prevent leaks when the gas supply resumes.
5. Rooms using natural gas should not have secondary sources of ignition/fuel, such as other stoves, especially propane stoves.
6. Avoid placing or hanging items on natural gas pipelines to prevent deformation due to stress and never use gas pipes as electrical conduits.
7. Keep flammable, explosive, or corrosive items away from natural gas pipelines.
8. When lighting a gas appliance, someone should be present in the room and regularly check to prevent gas leaks if the flame is accidentally extinguished.
9. Avoid modifying stoves or installing so-called "energy concentrators" to prevent incomplete combustion leading to carbon monoxide poisoning.
10. Cooperate with local gas companies for routine safety inspections and replace pipelines and gas appliances according to their service life.

Now, let's talk about bottled liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). If you suspect a leak, the precautions are similar to those for natural gas pipelines, with a few additional points to note:

1. Do not heat, lay horizontally, or shake LPG cylinders, as leaks can be extremely dangerous.
2. Both LPG cylinders and their associated hoses and regulators have a service life; regular inspections are necessary to prevent leaks.
3. Unlike natural gas stoves, do not mix appliances designed for LPG with those for natural gas.

In conclusion, gas safety is of utmost importance. To safeguard our lives, our neighbors, and our property, we must all prioritize the safe use of gas.