Sandhurst sewer worker dies from methane gas inhalation
A City of Johannesburg frontline worker tragically passed away from methane inhalation while maintaining Sandhurst's sewerage system.
A man died on January 6 while working inside a sewer manhole in Sandhurst.
City of Johannesburg EMS spokesperson Nana Radebe-Kgiba confirmed that emergency services responded to the call. According to a report from Vision Tactical’s X page, a sanitation worker, unfortunately, passed away from methane gas inhalation after being trapped in a sewerage line. “Our deepest condolences to his family and colleagues. This tragedy highlights the dangers faced by those maintaining vital infrastructure.”
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Martin Williams, ward 90 councillor, who was also present, said he is concerned about the safety of frontline workers, who face daily dangers in their various roles. “I have expressed sincere condolences to the worker’s colleagues who were onsite.”
He added that the workers who work on sewerage systems are particularly vulnerable because of the ever-present threat of exposure to methane gas. “Methane is produced in the decomposition of human waste. As you know, Monday’s victim was working in a manhole, which can be a trap for methane. Manholes must be properly ventilated. Methane is produced and survives anaerobically (without oxygen), so it does not survive well with good ventilation.”
He added that methane, and not Egoli Gas, was also blamed for the July 2023 explosion in Lillian Ngoyi Street in central Johannesburg. “We know the street has not been rehabilitated, but has the city tightened up on methane protection? We need to find out.”
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Williams highlighted that the sewerage systems must be regularly monitored to identify any areas with high methane concentrations. “Together with fellow councillors, I shall be asking questions about this, and whether all safety protocols are followed when workers enter sewerage systems: Do they wear the correct personal protective equipment, are portable gas detectors being used, and are the readings recorded?”
He concluded by saying that this tragic incident has also thrown a spotlight on the dire condition of Sandhurst’s ailing sewerage network, where the piping is inadequate to cope with the volumes generated as the area becomes more densely developed. “We have weekly sewage and water bursts in the area. Upgrades are desperately needed.”
Johannesburg Water has been contacted for a statement regarding the incident and will provide further information soon.
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