Massachusetts Wastewater Practice Exam

In order to comply with safety regulations, all couplings on pumps must be:

1. Tight.

2. Properly aligned.

3. Guarded.

4. Able to rotate freely.

The correct answer is: Guarded.

In the context of safety regulations for wastewater systems, ensuring that all couplings on pumps are properly guarded is essential for preventing accidents and injuries. Guarding couplings serves several important purposes: it protects workers from the risk of entanglement with moving parts, which can lead to serious injuries; it helps to contain any potential debris or fluids that might be expelled during operation; and it maintains compliance with safety standards established to protect personnel in industrial environments. Proper guarding contributes to a safer working environment, which is paramount in the maintenance and operation of wastewater systems. The other aspects like tightness, proper alignment, and the ability to rotate freely are certainly important for the functionality and efficiency of the pump. However, they primarily address operational performance rather than direct safety concerns. The focus on guarding emphasizes the highest priority of worker safety in compliance with industry regulations.