A Safety Guide for Homeowners in South Australia

Here's a comprehensive guide on what to do if you suspect a gas leak.

1. Recognizing the Signs of a Gas Leak

• Smell: Natural gas is odourless, but the Australian Gas Networks (AGN) add a distinct Odor (similar to rotten eggs) to help detect leaks.
• Sound: Listen for hissing or whistling sounds near gas lines or appliances.
• Sight: Look for dirt blowing into the air, bubbling in puddles, or dead vegetation near gas lines.
• Increased abnormal usage: If your retail gas bill is increased abnormally, this may indicate an unknown leak.

2. Evacuate and Ensure Safety

• If you suspect a significant gas leak, prioritize Safety. Evacuate everyone from the premises, including pets.
• Do not use any electrical devices, switches, or open flames. • Avoid smoking or using any potential ignition sources.

3. Ventilate the Area

• Open doors and windows to allow fresh air to enter the premises. This helps disperse the gas.

4. Shut Off the Gas Supply

• Locate your gas meter and the gas shutoff valve. Typically, it's located outside near the meter.
• Turn off all appliances and pilot lights.
• Using a spanner, if it is hard to turn, turn the valve a quarter-turn in either direction to close it. This stops the flow of gas to your home.

5. Contact the AGN – if the leak is at or before the meter 1800 427 532

• In South Australia, the APA, on behalf of the AGN, is responsible for maintaining the infrastructure network and investigating and repairing gas leaks up to and including the gas meter and associated connection.
• Call the AGN emergency line to report the leak. They will dispatch a qualified technician to assess and fix the issue. This number is 1800 GAS LEAK (1800 427 532)

6. Contact Brown and Son Plumbing & Gas Services – if the leak is internal to the residence at 1300 367 528

• Gas leaks are serious and should only be handled by trained professionals. Do not attempt to repair a gas leak on your own.
• Contact our office to lodge an urgent job request. Our trained team will be dispatched to rectify the issue as a priority.

7. Stay Informed

• Depending on the severity of the leak, remain outside and away from the property until it is safe to return. Follow the direction of the AGN phone support staff. • Follow any additional instructions provided by the AGN. • If the leak is internal to the residence, our trained team will direct you confidently to what steps to take next.

8. Prevent Future Leaks

• Regularly maintain your gas appliances and have them serviced and inspected by our team.
• Have your system checked ahead of time. If your consumer piping is old or has had alterations made, checking for leakage is a good idea. This can be achieved quickly and effectively to ensure your system is leak-free.
• Educate your family about gas safety procedures.
• Gas detection systems or pressure-proving devices with electric solenoid shutoff systems can be installed. Still, routine maintenance and testing can be just as effective for minor leakage issues.

Natural Gas Bushfire Information

If your property is near a bushfire event, you should turn off your natural gas supply whether you decide to leave your home or stay. The valve to turn off your supply is a quarter-turn valve; you’ll find it on the side of your gas meter assembly. Remember to keep the area surrounding the gas meter free of obstructions and combustible materials. If your home is affected by a bushfire, don’t turn on the gas supply until a gas fitter tests it. The gas fitter will confirm that there are no gas leaks or damage before the supply is turned back on. In the event of an emergency, call the Gas Leaks and Emergency services on 1800 GAS LEAK (1800 427 532).

South Australia has stringent safety regulations to ensure that gas suppliers respond promptly to gas leak emergencies. These regulations are designed to protect both consumers and the environment. Cooperating fully with your gas supplier's instructions and following their safety recommendations during a gas leak emergency is essential.

We welcome any discussion if you have any questions or would like any further information on this subject.

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