Although we add a distinctive odor to natural gas as a safety precaution to help detect leaks, your sense of smell might not be enough to detect it.
Here are a few reasons you may not be able to rely on smell alone:
- Strong smells in the area, like cooking or chemical odors, can mask the smell of natural gas.
- Prolonged exposure to the same smell can desensitize you to it (this is called olfactory fatigue).
- Certain conditions in the soil or pipes can cause the odorant to fade or be stripped out of the gas so it’s not readily detectable.
Individuals with a known inability to smell are especially at risk. If this is you, don’t take chances; experts recommend a natural gas detector for all indoor spaces. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s directions for operation, placement and maintenance.
Learn how to live and work safely around natural gas on our Gas Safety page.