What should you do if MSA alarms trigger?

What should you do if MSA alarms trigger?

• A. Vacate the structure immediately
• B. Notify a supervisor and continue work
• C. Ventilate the area and proceed
• D. Ignore the alarm and proceed

Answer: (A)

Gas detectors give an immediate warning of dangerous air; when the MSA alarm sounds, there is a real risk of toxic exposure or a flammable atmosphere. The correct action is to evacuate the structure immediately, moving to a safe distance and, if possible, upwind of the source. Once outside, notify a supervisor or safety personnel and await clearance before re-entering. Do not try to ventilate the area or continue working, and never ignore the alarm. Ventilating or proceeding could spread gas or increase danger, and ignoring the alarm puts everyone at risk.

Gas detectors give an immediate warning of dangerous air; when the MSA alarm sounds, there is a real risk of toxic exposure or a flammable atmosphere. The correct action is to evacuate the structure immediately, moving to a safe distance and, if possible, upwind of the source. Once outside, notify a supervisor or safety personnel and await clearance before re-entering. Do not try to ventilate the area or continue working, and never ignore the alarm. Ventilating or proceeding could spread gas or increase danger, and ignoring the alarm puts everyone at risk.