What is the first step in the start-up procedure for a centrifugal feed water pump?

The first step in the start-up procedure for a centrifugal feed water pump involves the lock-out, tag-out protocol, which is crucial for ensuring the safety of personnel working on or near the pump. This procedure prevents accidental start-up of the equipment during maintenance or servicing by ensuring that the energy source is properly controlled. Locking out the equipment physically prevents any operation, while tagging out provides notification to others that the equipment is not to be operated.

Establishing a safe working environment is paramount before any operational steps are taken, such as closing the discharge valve or opening the suction valve. Following safety protocols like lock-out, tag-out is a fundamental principle in industrial settings, ensuring that workers are not exposed to unexpected hazards during maintenance. It fundamentally precedes any operational activities like turning on the pump, as those should only commence once safety is confirmed.