Hydrocarbon gases are organic compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon atoms. Common examples include methane, propane, butane, and other flammable gases used in fuel systems, oil & gas operations, chemical processing, and industrial heating.

The primary danger of hydrocarbon gases is flammability and explosion risk. When mixed with air at certain concentrations, these gases can ignite from a spark. In the UK, exposure limits and safety guidance focus heavily on explosive risk, measured as a percentage of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL). The LEL is the lowest concentration at which a gas can ignite. For example, methane has an LEL of approximately 5% volume in air. Gas detection systems are typically set to alarm at 10% LEL (early warning) and 20% LEL (high alarm) to allow evacuation or corrective action before explosive conditions are reached.

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