What should be done first when responding to a discovered gas leak?

When responding to a discovered gas leak, the first action that should be taken is to evacuate nearby personnel. Ensuring the safety of individuals in the area is the top priority, as gas leaks can pose immediate dangers such as fire, explosion, or toxic exposure. Evacuating personnel minimizes the risk of harm and helps to keep everyone in a safe location while the situation is assessed and managed.

After personnel have been evacuated, other actions, such as notifying emergency services, investigating the cause of the leak, and turning on ventilation systems, can be conducted in a safe manner. It is important that these subsequent steps are handled by trained professionals who can properly assess and address the leak without putting anyone at risk.