What should you do before starting maintenance?

What should you do before starting maintenance?

• A. Open discharge valve
• B. Shut discharge valve
• C. Vent space
• D. Close main valve

Answer: (B)

Isolating the discharge path before maintenance is essential to keep the work area safe. Shutting the discharge valve stops fluid from leaving the system, preventing spills, backflow, or unexpected discharge while you’re working. It also helps you depressurize the line safely if needed. Opening the discharge valve would defeat this safety step by allowing flow to continue. Venting the space, while important for removing gases or relieving pressure, does not by itself stop discharge during maintenance. Closing the main valve could isolate the entire system, but the specific, correct action for preparing to work on the discharge path is to shut the discharge valve to ensure a safe, isolated work condition.

Isolating the discharge path before maintenance is essential to keep the work area safe. Shutting the discharge valve stops fluid from leaving the system, preventing spills, backflow, or unexpected discharge while you’re working. It also helps you depressurize the line safely if needed. Opening the discharge valve would defeat this safety step by allowing flow to continue. Venting the space, while important for removing gases or relieving pressure, does not by itself stop discharge during maintenance. Closing the main valve could isolate the entire system, but the specific, correct action for preparing to work on the discharge path is to shut the discharge valve to ensure a safe, isolated work condition.