Author -

GAS In A Manhole

 A first class Underground line worker along with an Underground trouble man were called to for secondary trouble on a single phase main. After arriving on the seen and checking the manhole for oxygen lvel, Carbon dioxide level, and Lowest explosive gas level opened a manhole finding a secondary joint smoking in a sub manhole that was filled with dirt and debris. The crew for safety went one manhole back checked for gas and cut the secondary feeding into the fault clear. A second crew on a Vactor Truck cleaned the Sub-hole so repairs could be made. After repairs were made the crew went back to the manhole were they cut the main clear, checked for gas but the battery on there meter died. So they figured oh it will be ok we were just here a little while ago, and entered the manhole. They had a smell of Natural Gas But last time they did too, but the meter said it was below our permissible entry level so no BIG DEAL. WRONG! While making a connection and picking up load not a lot of load, just a spit. Well that was all it took The Underground line worker received first and second degree burns to his face and neck. Thank god he had his Safety glasses and rubber gloves on. Hay if you exit a manhole and then reenter later, check it again. Never take a short cut. The job will not take that much longer!