Safety Procedures Flashcards

A meter reader encounters a dog on a property. The safest first action is to:

Answer: Back away slowly and not turn your back on the dog

Animal safety training requires meter readers to back away calmly without turning their back on the animal, then leave the property and report the hazard.

Before entering a meter vault or pit, a meter reader should check for:

Answer: Presence of hazardous gases using a gas detector

Confined spaces like meter vaults can accumulate dangerous gases such as methane or hydrogen sulfide, making atmospheric testing mandatory before entry.

When working in a neighborhood with heavy vehicle traffic, a meter reader should wear:

Answer: A high-visibility (reflective) safety vest

OSHA and utility company safety policies require workers near roadways to wear high-visibility reflective vests to ensure they are seen by drivers.

A meter reader smells a strong odor of rotten eggs near a gas meter. They should:

Answer: Immediately leave the area and call emergency services from a safe distance

A rotten egg smell indicates natural gas (which has odorant added for safety) — the reader must evacuate immediately and call the gas company and emergency services from a safe distance.

Which of the following is an appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) item for a meter reader working near electrical meters?

Answer: Insulated rubber gloves rated for electrical work

Insulated rubber gloves with appropriate voltage ratings protect against accidental contact with live electrical components near meter panels.

A meter reader notices exposed wires near an electric meter. The correct response is to:

Answer: Do NOT approach the meter and immediately report the hazard to the supervisor or dispatcher

Exposed electrical wires create an immediate electrocution hazard — the meter reader must not approach and must report it immediately for a trained technician to handle.