Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Class C Water License Exam

What should an operator do if they discover chlorine gas from a 150 lb. cylinder inside a room?

1. Open windows for ventilation

2. Evacuate immediately and ignore the leak

3. Call for assistance and wait for guidance

4. Shut off the valve immediately

The correct answer is: Call for assistance and wait for guidance

In the case of discovering chlorine gas leaking from a 150 lb. cylinder inside a room, the most prudent action is to call for assistance and wait for guidance. Chlorine gas is highly toxic and poses immediate health risks, including respiratory issues and potential fatality. This situation demands careful handling and expert intervention to ensure the safety of the operator and anyone else in the vicinity. By calling for assistance, the operator can alert trained emergency personnel who have the knowledge and equipment to assess and manage the situation safely. It is crucial to avoid taking action that could exacerbate the leak or put individuals at risk without proper support and guidance. The other options, while containing elements that might seem reasonable, do not prioritize safety effectively. Opening windows for ventilation may disperse some gas but does not eliminate the risk of exposure to harmful fumes, and it could complicate the leak further. Evacuating immediately without a plan may leave others at risk if they remain unaware of the danger. Shutting off the valve could be considered, but only if it can be done safely, and it is generally recommended that trained professionals handle such actions in hazardous situations. In emergency response scenarios, following a structured protocol is vital to mitigate danger effectively.