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PUMP SAFETY: BEST PRACTICES FOR PREVENTING ACCIDENTS

by Baker Matthias

First of all, pumps can result in severe injuries or even death if not operated properly. Secondly, they can contribute to pollution. A leaking pump may spew out toxic substances and other contaminants into the atmosphere. The ecology may suffer serious harm, and human health may be in danger. Finally, improper use of pumps can result in a fire risk. An improperly maintained pump may overheat and ignite. Significant property damage and even fatalities may result from this.

Therefore, it is crucial to ensure pump safety to safeguard both the environment and those utilizing the pumps.It is essential to abide by these strategies to ensure pump safety.

Read and understand the instructions.

Every pump from reputable providers like Pumpbiz comes with an instruction manual. Read the instruction booklet before installing, using, or performing maintenance on your pump or any associated equipment. Always check the handbook for the required pump parts specifications before making adjustments. For instance, look up the suggested upper limit for the space between the wear plate and the pump’s impeller. Increasing or decreasing the recommended limit will reduce the pump’s efficiency and hasten component wear.

Make use of the pump as intended.

Never pump a liquid that a centrifugal pump is not intended to pump. For instance, never use water pumps to move combustible or corrosive chemicals like acid or gasoline. Never use a pump in flammable or explosive situations if it is not designed for those conditions.

Replace worn-out and old parts.

Look for old and weary components in your pump and repair them immediately to prevent them from being severely damaged, which can cause accidents. For instance, a worn-out bearing causes the pump shaft to tremble, the pump to become noisy, and the pump to eventually overheat, which may be dangerous. Additionally, make sure there are no particles, such as sand, that could create scratches and hasten the wear of seal faces. Check for worn pipe plugs and suction line fittings as well.

Place it in the right location.

The liquid that is being pumped should be as close to a pump as possible. The pump must also be at least three feet away from any other machinery and always be fastened to the ground or another surface to keep it from moving while it is in use.

Do not disregard any safety interlock.

Never circumvent or turn off any security features on the pump or nearby. You are ignoring a valid rationale for why a certain safety interlock is in place, and doing so could result in further system failure.

Never use a leaking pump.

Avoid using any pump that is dripping liquid or making unusual noises. Any problems should be brought up immediately to a supervisor so they may be resolved. To inspect the pump, turn it off first.

Inspect the pump’s parts.

Last but not least, a pump requires maintenance inspections every six months. This may entail a borescope inspection to look for any internal issues. Maintaining its many parts, including the impeller vanes, wear plates, and volute casing, is crucial to keep the pump operating safely and effectively.

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