What action should be taken if the air supply pressure gauge indicates low levels?

When the air supply pressure gauge indicates low levels, the appropriate action is to immediately exit the hazardous area. This is crucial because a low-pressure reading may suggest that the air supply is insufficient for safe operation in an environment where respiratory protection is necessary. Continuing to work in a hazardous area without adequate breathable air could lead to serious health risks or incapacitation.

Prioritizing the safety of the individual using the SCBA is essential, and exiting the area allows for assessing the situation and re-evaluating the air supply in a safe environment. This course of action supports the fundamental principle of using SCBA, which is to ensure that the responder can breathe safely while mitigating exposure to hazardous conditions.

While checking the air cylinder can be a smart practice, doing so while still present in a dangerous environment could compromise personal safety. Moreover, ignoring the gauge or assuming it may be faulty does not address the potential risk posed by a low air supply. Therefore, prompt exit in response to low air gauge readings is the safest and most effective action to protect against potential asphyxiation or other respiratory dangers.