Methane (CH4) 
Methane (CH4) is a colorless and odorless gas that makes it impossible to detect by the human senses. It is a flammable gas that is used as fuel for vehicles, water heaters, etc.
Climate Change
Methane is the main component of natural gas, therefore a major contributor to vehicle emissions that run on CNG. Methane is a greenhouse gas. Therefore CH4 vehicle emissions add to the methane gas levels in the air. This further results in climate change and global warming.
It has a higher warming potential than carbon dioxide. As making it essential for any strategies that seek to reduce global warming. Reductions in methane emissions can result in immediate health benefits. As well as being an important component of energy systems that are less reliant on fossil fuels. Governments should put measures in place to facilitate the reduction of methane emissions from all sources. Such as through improved agricultural practices and livestock management techniques.
Methane in the Environment
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that helps in trapping the heat inside the earth’s environment resulting in global warming. It uses as a coolant in refrigerators and air conditioners. And in some industrial refrigerant applications, such as food industries. It majorly used as a natural gas.
Sources of Methane
Methane (CH4) occurs naturally and produce by a variety of sources. Some of the sources of methane gas are as follows:
Industrial processes
Methane is produced during the production of some industrial chemicals and is also used as fuel in various industrial processes.
Biomass burning
Methane produces when organic matter is burned, such as during forest fires or the burning of crops.
Landfills
Landfills are a major source of methane emissions, as organic waste in the landfill breaks down and produces methane gas
Manure Production
Digestive processes of livestock produce CH4. Further manure decomposition results in methane gas in the soil.
Energy Production
Methane is a byproduct of coal mining and is also produced during the extraction of oil and natural gas.
Waste Water Treatment
Methane is produced during the treatment of wastewater in sewage treatment plants.
It’s important to note that while some sources of methane are natural and unavoidable, many human activities contribute to the release of methane into the atmosphere,
How to know that you have Methane poisoning?
Methane poisoning can cause a range of symptoms, but not all symptoms are present in every case. If you are someone who works with methane gas on a regular basis, look out for the following symptoms to know if you have methane poisoning or not. Here are some signs and symptoms that may indicate methane poisoning:
Dizziness
Methane can cause dizziness,
which may be accompanied
by a headache.
Nausea and vomiting
Methane exposure can cause
nausea and vomiting, especially
if the exposure was through inhalation.
Breathing difficulties
Methane can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, leading to a shortage of oxygen and difficulty breathing.
Confusion
Methane can affect the central nervous system, leading to confusion and disorientation.
Weakness and fatigue
Methane exposure can cause weakness and fatigue, which may be accompanied by changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
Chest pain or tightness
Methane exposure can cause chest pain or tightness, especially if the exposure was through inhalation.
It is important to get fresh air immediately and to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you are someone who is exposed to methane gas. If exposure has occurred in an enclosed space, than it is important to evacuate the area and call emergency services. Methane exposure can be life-threatening, so prompt medical attention is essential.
Health hazards of Methane poisoning
Methane is a highly flammable gas that can pose serious health hazards if it accumulates in enclosed spaces or if it is ingested or inhaled. Some of the health hazards associated with methane poisoning include:
Asphyxiation
Methane is an odorless and tasteless gas that can displace oxygen in enclosed spaces, leading to asphyxiation and death.
Explosive risk
Methane is highly flammable and can easily ignite, presenting an explosive risk in enclosed spaces where concentrations of the gas are high.
Neurological effects
Methane can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea if inhaled in high concentrations. Long-term exposure to low levels of methane can also affect the central nervous system.
Respiratory irritation
Inhaling high concentrations of methane can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing and wheezing.
It is important to properly ventilate enclosed spaces where methane may be present and to take appropriate safety measures to avoid exposure to the gas. If you suspect methane poisoning, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Methane Work Place Exposure Limits
The legal airborne permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 100 ppm averaged over an 8-hour work shift.
The recommended airborne exposure limit is 100 ppm averaged over a 10-hour work shift.
The recommended airborne exposure limit is 100 ppm averaged over an 8-hour work shift.
To reduce methane poisoning episodes, some ways are:
Ventilation
Increasing airflow in areas where methane is present can dilute the concentration and reduce the risk of poisoning.
Detection
Increasing airflow in areas where methane is present can dilute the concentration and reduce the risk of poisoning.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of equipment and infrastructure can reduce the risk of leaks
and emissions.
Training
Providing training to workers on how to recognize and respond to methane exposure can help prevent poisonings.
Regulations
Implementing and enforcing regulations on methane emissions can reduce the overall release of the gas into the atmosphere.
Note:
This list is not exhaustive and the best course of action may depend on the specific circumstances and location of the potential exposure.