How to deal with a gas leak
If safe to do so, seek to confirm the gas leak.
If confirmed and safe to do so turn the gas supply off (the location of the isolation point should be stated on your unit plan) and follow the evacuation procedures and guidance outlined below.
Initial actions
Use verbal instruction to initiate fire evacuation plan
- All people with specific roles for fire evacuation should assume the same roles in this situation.
- Do not operate fire alarm or any electrical equipment (Do not turn any electrical switches on OR off).
- Do not use naked flames
- Do not allow smoking or the use of mobile phones.
- Open all doors and windows if safe to do so.
- Do not reopen the supply until remedial action has been taken by a competent person to prevent gas escaping again
Report the gas leak
Once you are well clear of the building report the leak to the:
- Gas Emergency helpline on 0800 111 999
- Fire Brigade via 999
- National Service Centre on 0333 005 0312
If the heating system is fuelled by Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) and the gas leak is believed to be coming from the bottles or storage tank, you should additionally call the LPG supplier emergency number which should be displayed on the bottles or storage tank.
If people are injured or at risk
Notify Emergency Services - if appropriate
Tell them the nature of the incident and that you have decided to evacuate.
If evacuation is required
How to manage an evacuation
If evacuation is not required and it is safe to do so
Make an assessment of the damage and report to P&FS helpdesk
Make arrangements to meet and manage any contractors
If the operation is impacted
Report to your line manager & CPC
Make arrangements for contingency arrangements especially for priority products & contracts.
If in doubt at any stage always call Central Postal Control (CPC)
Central Postal Control deals with issues on a regular basis and will be able to talk you through how to deal with any situation.