- Check all pump connections, hoses, and couplings before starting any pumping operation.
- Ensure standby pumps are primed, tested, and ready for immediate changeover if needed.
- Monitor pump performance continuously and record flow rates and pressures at set intervals.
- Follow the written overpumping procedure and escalation plan for the specific site.
- Obtain discharge consent before pumping any water into a watercourse or public sewer.
- Use sediment settlement and filtration before discharging site water to any receiving body.
- Secure all hoses and connections to prevent burst joints under pressure during operation.
- Brief all operatives on the emergency response procedure for pump failure scenarios.
- Maintain fuel supplies for diesel pumps to prevent generators running dry mid-operation.
- Report any unusual pump noises, vibration, or drop in performance immediately.
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- DON'T leave pumping operations unattended without continuous monitoring in place.
- DON'T discharge pumped water directly into watercourses without consent and treatment.
- DON'T use hoses or fittings that are not rated for the system operating pressure.
- DON'T allow sewage overpumping to operate without a tested standby pump available.
- DON'T ignore a pump alarm or warning light — investigate and respond immediately.
- DON'T walk over or drive vehicles across pumping hoses laid on the ground surface.
- DON'T attempt to repair hose connections or couplings while the system is pressurised.
- DON'T pump contaminated groundwater without testing and appropriate disposal arrangements.
- DON'T assume overpumping is low risk — a failure has immediate regulatory consequences.
- DON'T delay reporting a pump failure to the client — every minute increases pollution risk.
See also: Silt and Sediment Control | Pollution Incident Reporting |