Emergency Response Procedures Flashcards

What is the first action a gas utility employee should take upon arriving at a reported gas leak inside a building?

Answer: Evacuate the building and call 911 before entering

The first priority is life safety: evacuate all occupants and call 911 before entering any structure where a gas leak is suspected.

What is the 'isolation zone' in a gas emergency response?

Answer: The area around a gas incident from which non-essential personnel are excluded

An isolation zone is established around a gas emergency to keep non-essential personnel at a safe distance and prevent ignition sources from entering the hazard area.

When should a gas utility worker eliminate ignition sources near a gas leak?

Answer: Immediately upon detecting or suspecting a gas leak

Ignition sources must be eliminated immediately upon detecting or suspecting a gas leak to prevent ignition of any gas-air mixture that may be present.

What does the PHMSA National Response Center phone number allow pipeline operators to do?

Answer: Report significant incidents as required by federal regulation

Pipeline operators are required by 49 CFR Part 191 to report significant incidents to the PHMSA National Response Center by telephone as soon as practicable.

What is the purpose of an 'emergency response plan' (ERP) for a gas distribution operator?

Answer: To provide written procedures for responding to gas emergencies to protect life and property

An ERP documents the procedures, responsibilities, and resources required to respond effectively to gas emergencies and is required by 49 CFR Part 192.

What is 'blowing down' a gas line in the context of emergency response?

Answer: Venting gas from a pipeline segment to atmosphere to allow safe repair work

Blowing down a gas line means safely venting residual gas from a pipeline segment to atmosphere so that maintenance or repair work can proceed safely.