HWN Suggests

The Dangers of Methane Gas Poisoning and Exposure

Methane exposure, particularly when experienced in high concentrations, can lead to methane gas poisoning. While it is considered relatively non-toxic, its primary threat is that it functions as an asphyxiant, similar to the threat posed by carbon monoxide exposure. When inhaled, it displaces ambient air, thus depriving the body of oxygen needed to breathe. While low concentrations are generally not harmful, higher concentrations lead to less oxygen availability and a range of symptoms

read full article

Articles of Interest

Dangers of Methane Gas to People and the Environment

When exposed to large quantities or prolonged periods of methane gas, it can cause health issues in people. One of the things that makes it really dangerous is that it is odorless and colorless, so you may not even know that you have been exposed. Although it is not technically toxic, methane works as an asphyxiant and can deprive your body of oxygen.

How to Recognize When There's a Gas Leak

One of the primary symptoms often reported by people who have been exposed to natural gas is a headache. This is one of the reasons that can make it difficult to identify a natural gas leak, as headaches and related discomfort are not uncommon in daily life.

All You Need to Know About Methane Gas Exposure Symptoms

As seen in most cases, one of the first symptoms of methane gas exposure is headache.

Methane and NOx Emissions from Natural Gas Stoves, Cooktops, and Ovens in Residential Homes

Natural gas stoves in >40 million U.S. residences release methane (CH4)─a potent greenhouse gas─through post-meter leaks and incomplete combustion.

Methane gas: An invisible danger

As a result of methane exposure, people may experience a range of effects. When people are exposed to this asphyxiating gas in high concentrations, it may displace their oxygen supply, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. This could cause suffocation, which could lead to brain injuries or death.

Methane: A Threat to People and Planet

Methane is out of control and we need to manage it—to protect people and the planet. This main component of natural or fossil gas is a vastly more potent warming agent than CO2 over short timeframes, is accompanied by highly toxic chemicals, and when leaked can be a major health and safety hazard.

Natural Gas Used in Homes Contains Hazardous Air Pollutants

“It is well-established that natural gas is a major source of methane that’s driving climate change,” said Drew Michanowicz, Visiting Scientist at Harvard Chan C-CHANGE and Senior Scientist at PSE Healthy Energy. “But most people haven’t really considered that our homes are where the pipeline ends and that when natural gas leaks it can contain health-damaging air pollutants in addition to climate pollutants.”

USC researchers look at long-term health effects of Porter Ranch gas leak

Methane makes about 90 percent of natural gas. Methane and other chemicals emitted in natural gas can react in the open-air environment and create other gases and chemicals, such as hydrogen sulfide. Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene have also been associated with the emission and are thought to be part of the oily residues in the well and on the walls of the storage facility.