What safety measure is crucial before lighting a gas appliance?

Inspecting for gas leaks is a vital safety measure before lighting a gas appliance. The presence of a gas leak can pose a significant risk of fire or explosion, making it essential to ensure that all connections, hoses, and the appliance itself are free from leaks. This inspection typically involves checking joints and fittings for any signs of gas escape, often using a soapy water solution or a gas leak detector.

By prioritizing this safety check, a gas fitter can help prevent potentially dangerous situations that could arise from igniting gas in the presence of a leak. It is a standard practice in the industry to perform this inspection as part of the routine maintenance and safety protocol for gas appliances. While ensuring no flammable materials are nearby, checking the pilot light, and calibrating temperature settings are also important safety considerations, none can take precedence over confirming that there are no leaks, which directly addresses the immediate risk of ignition in an unsafe environment.