Gas Leak

The properties of natural gas are that it is lighter than air and will dissipate into the atmosphere in the unlikely event of a leak outside your building. If the leak is within your building the situation is much more serious.

Natural gas in its natural state is non-toxic and odourless. As a safety precaution, an odourant is added to ensure quick detection in case of a gas leak. If you can smell gas do not smoke, induce a spark, light flames, or use a mobile phone in the vicinity.

Emergency Action

1. Rescue any person in immediate danger if safe to do so. Use of self-contained breathing apparatus is only appropriate for trained persons working in pairs.
2. Turn off gas at source if possible.
3. Isolate the area if hazardous volatiles are released by closing doors and windows. If flammable vapours are released do not operate any electrical switches. Where fitted, activate emergency shut-off or isolate possible ignition sources at switchboard.
4. The material safety data sheet will have information on the toxicity and flammability of the gas, and provision of first aid.
5. Call security on 8344 6666 and maintenance on 8344 6000.
6. Consider evacuation:
   • Partial evacuation of floor by word of mouth
   • Building evacuation - initiated by pressing a break glass alarm. (This alerts the Wardens, calls the fire brigade, and calls Maintenance to the building.)
7. The material safety data sheet will have information on the toxicity and flammability of the gas, and provision of first aid.
8. Do no re-enter area until advised by an emergency team member or other emergency professional that it is safe to do so.