Investigations into the devastating propane explosions that occurred in Hay River and Yellowknife in 2022 have uncovered that both incidents were linked to work done on propane systems without obtaining the necessary permits and inspections.
In Hay River, an explosion leveled a garage and damaged a home and surrounding neighborhood on November 26. An investigation determined that a generator and its recently upgraded piping may have been the cause of a propane leak inside the garage. The upgrades were carried out two months prior to the explosion without the required permit or inspection.
A similar incident occurred in Yellowknife on December 6, resulting in extensive damage to a home on Dagenais Drive. An investigation revealed that three 500-liter propane tanks and corresponding lines and regulators had been installed earlier that year without a permit.
Investigators concluded that a leak developed from a failed regulator in the extreme cold, and the leaking propane gas pooled in a crawl space under the home. A wood stove burning into the night is suspected as the source of ignition, although the exact sequence of events remains unclear.
Officials pointed out that such incidents can be prevented by adhering to safety protocols and regulations. Homeowners and companies are urged to obtain permits for any type of propane installation, including tanks, gas lines, and appliances. Failure to do so can lead to serious consequences, including hefty fines and potential criminal charges.
Permits for propane work in the Northwest Territories are handled by the Compliance and Licensing Unit. They emphasize that inspections are routinely conducted for gas companies in Yellowknife, and individuals caught doing gas work without a permit may face penalties.
The importance of permit compliance cannot be overstated to ensure the safe installation and maintenance of propane systems, preventing tragedies like the explosions in Hay River and Yellowknife from reoccurring.
