Methane Exposure Risks in Occupational and Residential Environments throughout California

Back in 2015, the residents of California learned firsthand about the dangers of exposure to methane when a natural gas storage well near Los Angeles experienced a blowout. According to some reports, over 100,000 tons of methane (CH₄) and other gases were released into the air, resulting in health complaints from people living in the area and the eventual evacuation of thousands of people.

Methane is a primary component of natural gas and is a major greenhouse gas. It is a colorless, odorless and extremely flammable gas that can be explosive when mixed with air. Methane is a simple asphxiant; which by definition is a gas because it displaces O₂. Decreased oxygen caused by methane inhalation can cause suffocation and loss of consciousness. It can also cause headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting and loss of coordination.

“Workers or those who live near an oil or gas field, coal mine, farm, landfill, wastewater treatment plant, coal-fired power plant, hydraulic fracturing operation or a facility that uses methane to manufacture other chemicals could be exposed to significantly higher levels of methane as compared to the general public,” said Michael Chapman, Laboratory Manager of LA Testing’s Huntington Beach facility.  “At LA Testing, we help to identify exposure risks to methane, other hydrocarbons and a wide range of air pollutants. We offer industrial hygiene and environmental testing services, all of the sampling supplies and equipment needed, and also carry an array of real-time air monitoring instruments and personal protective equipment.”

LA Testing has sponsored an educational video about methane exposure concerns that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/YIX2FUlQUFA.

To learn more about testing for methane, hydrocarbons or other air quality, environmental, occupational, health and safety issues, please visit www.LATesting.com, email  info@LATesting.com  or call (800) 755-1794.  

About LA Testing
LA Testing is California’s leading laboratory for indoor air quality testing of asbestos, mold, lead, VOCs, formaldehyde, soot, char, ash and smoke damage, particulates and other chemicals.  In addition, LA Testing offers a full range of air sampling and investigative equipment to professionals and the general public. LA Testing maintains an extensive list of accreditations including: AIHA LAP LLC., AIHA ELLAP, AIHA EMLAP and AIHA IHLAP, CDC Elite, NVLAP, State of California, State of Hawaii Department of Health and other states.  LA Testing, along with the EMSL Analytical, Inc. network, has multiple laboratories throughout California including South Pasadena, Huntington Beach, San Leandro and San Diego.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

LA Testing

(1) 856-303-2503

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