Houston, TX – August 2025 – At the Natural Gas Odorization Conference in Houston, Dr. Richard L. Doty delivered a keynote talk warning that millions of Americans may be unable to detect natural gas leaks due to smell dysfunction.
Natural gas is naturally odorless, and federal regulations require it to be odorized so leaks are “readily detectable” by people with a “normal sense of smell.” But, as Dr. Doty explained, these terms lack clear scientific definition—and many people, particularly older adults and those affected by COVID-19 or other conditions, cannot reliably detect odorants. Nearly half of adults over 65 experience some degree of smell loss.
“Smell dysfunction is far more common than most people realize,” said Dr. Doty. “Without proper testing, we can’t assume people can detect the warning odorants added to natural gas. That gap poses real safety risks.”
Dr. Doty called for updated standards that incorporate validated smell testing for technicians and the public. He emphasized that, like instruments, people also require “calibration” to ensure accurate detection.
As inventor of the Smell Identification Test (UPSIT®)—the world’s most widely used smell test—Dr. Doty and Sensonics International continue to provide science-based tools like the UPSIT® and Snap & Sniff® to improve safety in healthcare, research, and industry.
For more information, visit www.sensonics.com.