A furnace replacement in Dawson Creek resulted in a flash fire earlier this year after two unsupervised workers disconnected a pressurized natural gas line, according to an investigation by Technical Safety BC.
The incident happened Jan. 8 at a detached home where a gas-fitting company had been hired to replace a damaged furnace.
According to the investigation summary, the furnace and a gas-fired water heater were beside each other in a small hallway enclosure.
Two workers began preparing the furnace for removal before a certified journeyperson arrived. The gas supply remained on as they disconnected the appliance shut-off valve and removed the gas supply riser.
Technical Safety BC said the work resulted in an uncontrolled release of natural gas.
“The escaping gas was subsequently ignited by the standing pilot light on the water heater, which was situated directly next to the furnace. A small explosion and localized fire followed.”
The report said one worker tried to stop the flow of gas by covering the open pipe with his thumb while attempting to cap it.
Both workers suffered minor burns. One sustained burns to the head and hands while the other suffered a burn to a finger.
The workers then took steps to prevent the fire from spreading. One went outside to shut off the main gas valve at the meter before using water to extinguish smouldering areas while the other helped the homeowner leave the building.
The fire caused moderate smoke and fire damage around the hallway enclosure, but the main structure was saved, according to the report.
The investigation found neither worker was a certified gas fitter or registered apprentice permitted to perform the work without direct, on-site supervision.
The report also identified pressure to complete the job quickly as a contributing factor, with one worker taking on tasks outside the permitted scope of work.
Provincial safety requirements state gas systems must be isolated from the main supply before gas piping is disconnected or altered.
Following the incident, the gas-fitting company introduced written policies prohibiting gas-line work unless authorized and licensed personnel are on site, according to the report.
