Monthly Archive: January 2025

NFPA 704 CNG Placard Sign on Fence – West Jordan, Utah

NFPA 704 CNG Placard Sign on Fence - West Jordan, Utah

An NFPA CNG Placard Sign on a fence in West Jordan, Utah, next to a CNG filling station.

The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) rating sign for CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) follows the NFPA 704 Hazard Diamond system, which provides crucial safety information for emergency responders. This diamond-shaped sign is divided into four colored sections, each indicating a different hazard category:

  1. Blue (Health Hazard) – Typically rated 1 for CNG, indicating a slight hazard under normal conditions, but inhalation of high concentrations can cause dizziness or asphyxiation.
  2. Red (Flammability Hazard) – Rated 4, the highest level, as CNG is extremely flammable and can ignite easily in air.
  3. Yellow (Instability/Reactivity Hazard) – Rated 0, meaning CNG is stable under normal conditions and does not readily react with other chemicals.
  4. White (Special Hazard) – Usually left blank for CNG, as it does not have significant corrosive or radiation-related dangers.

These signs are commonly displayed on CNG storage tanks, fueling stations, and transport vehicles to warn of the gas’s high flammability and ensure proper handling during emergencies. Proper ventilation, leak detection, and adherence to safety protocols are essential when working with or around CNG.

Mary D Hume Shipwreck – Rogue River, Oregon

Mary D Hume Shipwreck - Rogue River, Oregon

The Mary D. Hume is a historic shipwreck located on the Rogue River in Gold Beach, Oregon. Originally launched in 1881, this vessel had a remarkably long career spanning nearly a century, serving as a coastal freighter, whaling ship, and tugboat. Built in Gold Beach, the Mary D. Hume was initially used for transporting goods between Oregon and San Francisco before being repurposed for Arctic whaling expeditions. Later in its life, the vessel returned to tugboat service along the Pacific Northwest coast, making it one of the longest-working ships of its time.

After being decommissioned in 1978, the Mary D. Hume was left to rest in the waters of the Rogue River near its birthplace. Today, the ship’s skeletal remains are partially submerged and covered in rust and vegetation, creating an eerie yet fascinating landmark. Despite its decayed state, the wreck remains a significant piece of maritime history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors to Gold Beach can view the wreck from the shore, offering a glimpse into Oregon’s rich nautical past and the enduring legacy of this once-mighty vessel.

Survey Marking on Concrete – Salt Lake City – Utah

A survey marking on a concrete sidewalk in Salt Lake City, urging workers to proceed with caution, likely due to electrical utilities in the area. Salt Lake resides in the urban corridor known as the Wasatch Front that runs between Ogden and Payson.

Survey markings on pavement are temporary or semi-permanent symbols, lines, or indicators used by surveyors and utility workers to convey information about underground utilities, construction projects, or property boundaries. These markings are typically made using brightly colored spray paint, chalk, or flags to ensure visibility. Each color corresponds to a specific type of utility or purpose, following standardized color codes set by organizations like the American Public Works Association (APWA). For example, red indicates electrical lines, blue represents potable water, yellow marks gas or oil lines, and green highlights sewer or drainage lines. These markings are crucial for safety and precision in excavation and construction projects.

The markings help contractors, engineers, and workers avoid damaging underground infrastructure during construction or repair work. They may also indicate elevation points, property boundaries, or planned routes for utilities or structures. Surveyors use symbols like arrows, numbers, or letters to provide additional details about measurements, angles, or directions. It’s important to note that these markings are temporary and will fade over time or be removed after the project is completed. Observing these markings helps ensure projects proceed safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of accidents or costly damage to critical utilities.