What Does
Gas Venting Mean?
Gas venting is the process of allowing unwanted gaseous by-products to exit an underground system. Without proper venting, underground systems run the risk of faulty operation or even explosion when the gases build up. It is also a critical safety requirement when workers are doing underground construction.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Gas Venting
In trenchless construction operations, as in other underground industries, it is important to release undesirable gases before catastrophe strikes. The 2000 Willow Creek Mine explosion in Carbon County, Utah, brought loss of life because of an inadequate ventilation system. Tunneling and drilling operators face similar risks.
The gas to be vented may come from normal construction operations, but the definition may be extended to natural gas ventilation. According to Trenchless Technology Magazine, “Proper ventilation of underground concrete gas regulation structures is an important component to the smooth operation of the gas distribution system….”
The sewer is another area where gas venting is critical. Sewer gas can be either toxic or non-toxic. While gas venting is often thought of as a deliberate process, in the case of sewers, the term may refer to odorous gas wafting up into homes and businesses because of blocked pipes. Either way, control of gas flow in underground systems is essential to both operation and safety.
Modern buildings use something called a drain-waste-vent (DWV) to expel the fumes from sewer drainage. The aim is to get the noxious gases to the open air. This is done with with vent pipes that may extend to the roof. Each drain pipe must be connected to this gas venting system. This aspect of plumbing is highly regulated and must meet local codes. A similar venting system in construction operations must be created and the OSHA ventilation requirements and other safety regulators adhered to.