What should be done if a medical gas cylinder starts to leak?

When a medical gas cylinder starts to leak, moving it to a well-ventilated area and informing the supervisor is the appropriate course of action. This ensures that any potentially hazardous gas is safely dispersed, reducing the risk of an accumulation that could lead to an explosive or toxic environment. Well-ventilated areas help to dilute the concentration of the leaking gas, thus minimizing the danger to personnel.

Informing the supervisor is essential as they have the authority and expertise to handle the situation properly, which may involve assessing the risk, taking the appropriate safety measures, and determining whether the cylinder needs to be repaired or replaced. This process emphasizes the importance of quick identification and communication in handling gas leaks to ensure the safety of everyone in the vicinity.

In contrast, attempting to repair the cylinder immediately could be dangerous without proper training and equipment, as it may exacerbate the leak or result in injury. Ignoring the leak until the next scheduled checks poses significant risks to health and safety. Sealing a leak with duct tape is not an effective or safe method, as the materials and pressures involved in a gas cylinder require professional assessment and handling rather than improvised solutions.