Natural Gas Safety
Natural gas is predominantly methane - an odourless, colourless gas that does not become a liquid at normal temperatures. For safety reasons, an odour is added to the gas before it enters your home so that a person with a normal sense of smell can easily detect if any gas is escaping from appliances or piping.
Download our Natural Gas Safety brochure
If you have a gas leak:
- If you suspect that there is a gas leak on any part of the gas installation then the gas supply should be turned off at the isolating valve, which is a ball valve that is closed when the handle is at right angles to the pipework.
- If you are unable to turn the gas off at the isolating valve or if, for example, the leak is on the house pipes then the valve at the inlet to the gas meter should be closed.
- Never use a naked flame to test for a gas leak and remove all sources of ignition. Do not switch on a light or use a mobile phone.
- In extreme cases, when the gas smell is very strong it may be necessary for you to evacuate the premises, leaving the door and/or windows open to allow the gas to disperse.
- All leaks should be reported to Essential Energy (or your natural gas retailer if you are not in the Essential Energy area) on 13 20 80.
About your gas meter and regulator
Your gas meter measures the quantity of gas delivered and has a regulator to ensure that gas is received at the right pressure for safe and efficient use. Do not damage or adjust the gas meter or regulator in any way. Any defect in the gas meter should be reported to your natural gas retailer immediately.
Pipework
Take care to ensure that all gas pipework is not damaged, subjected to any pressure or impact which may deform or pierce it.
Approved Appliances
Only appliances designed to burn natural gas can be connected to the natural gas network. Approved appliances feature an Australian Gas Association badge.
Qualified Tradespeople
Connection to the gas mains, as well as the installation of natural gas appliances and equipment, must be done by a gas fitter or gas plumber licensed to the Australian Gas Association standard.
Essential Energy Emergency Contact
If you are experiencing an electricity or natural gas emergency in your home or vicinity, please call our dedicated emergency number on
13 20 80 - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.