An excavator operator is about to begin work in an area with a strong, unpleasant odour of natural gas, even after gas company personnel have been notified and responded, stating no leak was found. What safety precaution should be taken first?

Question: An excavator operator is about to begin work in an area with a strong, unpleasant odour of natural gas, even after gas company personnel have been notified and responded, stating no leak was found. What safety precaution should be taken first?

Answer options:

• Proceed with excavation, but monitor the smell closely. ✅ Evacuate the immediate area and wait for further inspection by the gas company.
• Start excavation at a safe distance from the perceived source of the odour.
• Use a fan to dissipate the smell before starting work.

Correct answer: Evacuate the immediate area and wait for further inspection by the gas company.

Explanation: A persistent strong odour of natural gas, even after an initial response, indicates a potential ongoing leak or misidentification. The safest immediate precaution is to evacuate the area and ensure a thorough re-inspection by qualified gas company personnel before any work resumes, as gas leaks pose significant explosion and asphyxiation risks.