What type of monitoring would be essential for detecting gas leaks during a HAZMAT incident?

Air quality monitors are essential for detecting gas leaks during a HAZMAT incident because they are specifically designed to measure the concentration of hazardous gases in the environment. These monitors provide real-time data on the presence of harmful chemicals and can identify specific gases, enabling responders to assess the level of risk and take appropriate action. Their sensitivity and accuracy make them a vital tool for safety and decision-making in potentially toxic environments.

Thermal imaging, while useful for detecting heat signatures and visualizing the location of fires or hot spots, does not indicate gas presence. Visual inspections can help assess overall conditions but may not reveal gas leaks that are colorless or undetectable through sight. Noise level assessments are unrelated to gas detection and focus instead on audible disturbances, which do not assist in identifying hazardous gases. Thus, air quality monitors stand out as the most effective solution for this critical task during a HAZMAT incident.