Utility Updates - Con Edison: New Installation of Natural Gas Detectors

Over the next two years, Con Edison will be installing Natural Gas Detectors (Gas Detector) in the area where the gas service enters a building (as close as practical to the point of entry). The device will be installed by the Utility, free of charge. The Gas Detector detects the presence of natural gas and is designed to alarm at 10% or greater of the lower explosive limit (LEL) for natural gas. When the Gas Detector alarms, it will beep loudly and say, “DANGER. Gas leak explosion risk. Evacuate and then call 911.” It will also send a wireless signal to Con Edison and the Fire Department, both of whom will immediately come to the building to investigate. For more information, please visit the MPC website or click here.

MPC Utility Committee Comments:
The installation of these devices will greatly enhance public safety by providing immediate indication of leaks near the point of entry and possibly leaks caused by migration of gas into a building. These devices have been installed and operating in Westchester County and they work as intended. Unfortunately, Con Edison never notified the Westchester industry about the rollout of the Gas Detectors. As a result, there have been a few instances where the devices had activated and when the Fire Department and Utility arrived, they found a plumber actively working on a gas pipe or appliance (hopefully with a valid work permit).

The MPC has requested that Con Edison develop a procedure to take the device offline when a licensed plumber may be doing work that could trip the device. Some of these devices have also been installed in Northern Manhattan. Licensed plumbers should be aware that these devices have been installed. As soon as more information is available, MPC will update members.