UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
SAFETY ALERT
Dangers of: Leaky Gas Valves – Fire Risk
Incident
During the week of April 7th, 2013, a gas leak ignited causing damage to pipe covering in a laboratory in the Gortner building on the University of Minnesota St Paul Campus.
A lit Bunsen Burner ignited gas which was leaking from a loose serrated hose nozzle. Flames shot out a foot or more and caused burn damage to nearby pipe covering. The attendant was able to shut off the gas supply before the fire could take hold and spread.
Fortunately, this incident caused minimal damage and there were no injuries.
How did this happen?
The serrated hose nozzle (pictured - top right) had loosened allowed gas to escape. The university has many older laboratory spaces where this type of nozzle is used.
What is being done to address this risk?
Facilities Management technicians have conducted a sweep of the Gortner building and have tightened a few additional nozzles.
Action for Researchers and Laboratory workers?
Check the gas nozzles in your laboratories to ensure they have a tight fit. You can also squeeze some liquid soap over the threads before activating the gas valve, and look for bubbles.
If you find a loose nozzle, DO NOT USE IT. Contact Facilities Management at 624-2900 and request an “urgent repair”.
If you have questions regarding this alert please contact Joe Klancher, DEHS, at 626-3611.
