Natural Gas Emergency Guideline
Revised April 2024
Purpose
The Natural Gas Emergency Guideline is intended to provide direction to District employees should they suspect a natural gas leak or emergency involving natural gas.
Applicability
The Natural Gas Emergency Guideline is applicable to all employees.
Signs of a Natural Gas Leak
- Smell a distinct odor of sulfur or “rotten egg”
- Bubbles rising in a puddle or other pool of liquid
- Dust or dirt blowing from a hole in the ground
- Dead or dying vegetation in unexpected locations
- Hissing (small perforation) or roaring (large break)
Responsibility
Employee Responsibilities
- Exercise Stop Work Authority.
- Leave the area immediately. If indoors, evacuate the building. To ensure the building is evacuated, you may utilize fire alarm.
- Call Puget Sound Energy (PSE) or other applicable gas company and 911. Avoid using a landline phone, as it may cause a spark.
- PSE 1-888-225-5773
- Don’t do anything else that might create a spark, including flipping any switches on or off.
All District work where natural gas lines are present should be coordinated with Puget Sound Energy or other applicable gas company.
The District utilizes Gas Detector Monitors for work in confined spaces.
Training and Resources
Learning Central offers training related to gas monitors and hazards. PSE provides resources/training for emergency responders, including public works departments/utilities.
Link to PSE resources: