What must be done before working on an LP gas appliance?

Before working on an LP gas appliance, it is essential to turn off the gas supply to ensure safety. This step is crucial because it prevents the release of gas, which could lead to hazardous situations such as leaks or explosions. By shutting off the gas supply, you create a safer working environment to conduct maintenance or repairs, minimizing the risk of igniting gas or causing harm to yourself or others.

Turning off the gas supply is a standard safety procedure across various types of service work involving gas appliances. This practice protects both the technician performing the work and anyone in the vicinity. Ensuring that there is no gas flow during maintenance reduces the risk of accidents and allows for safe handling of the appliance.

While notifying local authorities, inspecting electrical connections, or emptying the container may be relevant in specific situations or types of maintenance, none of these actions address the immediate safety concerns related to gas flow, which makes shutting off the gas supply the most critical first step before proceeding with any work on an LP gas appliance.