What is the appropriate action if air readings are unstable or exceed PPE capabilities during entry?

• A. Proceed with entry using the most conservative reading.
• B. Pause entry and reassess with upgraded PPE or alternate controls.
• C. Ignore readings and continue.
• D. Exit the site immediately.

Answer: (B)

When monitoring an entry, the safety priority is to ensure the protection in place actually covers the hazard. If air readings become unstable or exceed what the current PPE can reliably protect against, you cannot proceed with the existing setup. The correct action is to pause entry and reassess, upgrading the PPE or applying alternative controls (such as enhanced ventilation, containment, or remote/alternative entry methods) to bring the hazard back within safe limits before continuing. This approach directly addresses the risk by improving protection or control measures rather than risking exposure by continuing, ignoring the readings, or taking action only after an immediate exit is mandated.