What action should you take if you smell gas in the lab?

If you smell gas in the lab, the appropriate course of action is to evacuate the area and notify lab personnel. This response is crucial because the presence of gas can pose a significant safety hazard, including the risk of fire or explosion, as well as potential health hazards from inhalation. By evacuating, you remove yourself and others from immediate danger, ensuring that no one is exposed to harmful substances.

Notifying lab personnel is equally important, as they are responsible for managing safety protocols and can take immediate action, such as shutting off gas supply or calling emergency services. This coordinated response can mitigate the risk and protect everyone in the vicinity.

Checking the source of the smell may put you at risk, especially if the situation is serious, while ignoring it could lead to dangerous consequences. Ventilating the area could be beneficial in certain situations, but it is not the immediate priority when a gas leak is suspected, as staying in the area could expose you to danger. Thus, evacuating and informing others is the safest and most responsible action to take.