If you notice a steam leak, who should you report it to?

• A. A co-worker
• B. The supervisor after lunch
• C. The appropriate personnel
• D. The maintenance manual

Answer: (C)

Noticing a steam leak means acting quickly to get the right people involved who can respond safely and effectively. The important thing is to report to the designated responders—the people set up to handle safety issues and equipment problems. They have the training to assess the leak, shut off or isolate the area, and coordinate with maintenance or engineering to fix it, all while keeping people safe.

Telling a coworker may not trigger the proper procedures or authority to take immediate action, and waiting until after lunch delays a potentially dangerous situation from being managed promptly. The maintenance manual is a reference document, not a person who can initiate the response. If you’re unsure who to notify, use your plant’s emergency reporting path—inform the supervisor or the designated safety/operations personnel who will route the report to the right team.