If readings are found above a certain percentage of the LEL, what action should be taken?

When readings exceed a specific percentage of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL), it indicates that the concentration of flammable gases or vapors in the air is approaching a level where ignition could occur. This condition poses a significant risk of explosion or fire, making it crucial to take immediate action to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.

Evacuation is the appropriate response in such situations because it removes individuals from a potentially hazardous environment. Ensuring that people are at a safe distance helps prevent injuries or fatalities from an explosion. Implementing evacuation procedures allows emergency responders to address the source of the gas or vapor without putting personnel at risk.

While ventilation may be an effective strategy in some scenarios to disperse flammable gases, it is typically considered after evacuating personnel to ensure safety. Igniting gas is dangerous and should never be an action taken in response to LEL readings. Prioritizing rescue operations would also be inappropriate under these conditions as the first step must always be to secure the area and ensure safety through evacuation. Thus, evacuating individuals is of paramount importance in response to readings above the critical threshold of the LEL.