What should be done if gas readings are 80% LEL or greater?

The correct action to take when gas readings are at 80% LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) or greater is to refrain from shutting down power, as the specific source of the gas has not yet been identified. Shutting down power, especially in hazardous environments, can create sparks that might ignite the gas, leading to an explosion. It is crucial to first assess the situation and try to locate the source of the gas before making any changes to the power status.

In situations with high gas concentrations, immediate evacuation of the area is often necessary to ensure safety, but the key is to do this without hastily shutting down the power, which could inadvertently escalate the danger. Reporting to the fire chief is important as part of the incident command process, but the priority should first be on ensuring that corrective measures are taken without introducing new hazards. Therefore, understanding the correct procedure in high gas readings centers on a careful management of potential ignition sources and prioritizing assessments.