What might be a safety concern regarding specific gravity of gases?

The reason that a higher specific gravity of gases is a significant safety concern is that gases with a higher specific gravity tend to be heavier than air. This characteristic can lead to these gases accumulating in low-lying areas, such as basements or trenches. In such places, the concentration of the gas can reach hazardous levels, potentially leading to risks such as asphyxiation or even fire and explosion, depending on the nature of the gas.

Understanding specific gravity is critical in the plumbing and general construction fields, as it informs professionals about proper ventilation and safe handling practices. By recognizing that certain gases can settle in lower levels, plumbers and workers can implement measures to detect, ventilate, or avoid these accumulations, thereby mitigating safety hazards effectively.