Which scenario requires a gas technician to take immediate action?

The scenario where a gas odor is detected requires immediate action from a gas technician because it is a clear indicator of a potential gas leak, which can pose serious safety risks, including the possibility of explosion or harmful exposure to gas. Gas odors are typically a result of added odorants (like mercaptan) to natural gas for safety reasons, as natural gas itself is odorless. When a gas technician detects a gas odor, it is imperative to respond swiftly to assess the situation, locate the source of the leak, and take corrective measures to ensure safety.

In contrast, routine maintenance checks and scheduled servicing are planned activities meant to ensure systems are operating correctly and safely, but they do not require immediate intervention unless a dangerous situation is identified during the process. Increased gas usage could indicate a possible issue needing investigation, but it does not necessitate immediate action as a gas odor does. Thus, the detection of a gas odor is the most urgent scenario, compelling a technician to act right away to safeguard people and property.