Finding a safer way to pump wastewater

It is possible to improve and eliminate some of the dangers associated with wastewater pumping, according to a new white paper.

The paper, written by Hydro Innovations, suggests that there is in fact a safer way to pump wastewater.

It states that the Gorman-Rupp Self Priming Centrifugal pumps eliminate the dangers of ‘working over heights’ and ‘working over water’ usually associated with pumping wastewater with submersible pumps. Because the pumps are located above the wet well, operators do not have to be exposed to the dangers of open wet well pits when monitoring, inspection or maintenance is necessary. A correctly engineered solution will also eliminate the need for working in confined spaces.

Also, because the maintenance can occur while the pump is still connected to the pipe system, and no cranes or lifting devices are needed, the dangers of working with heavy swinging weights and working with cranes is eliminated. When pump clearances need to be adjusted, Gorman-Rupp V Series pumps allow operators to make adjustments externally, without removing the pump from service and without having to come in contact with the pumped fluid. To adjust submersible pump clearances, operators need to open wet well lids, use a lifting device and ‘man handle’ pumps that are covered in the pumped fluid (which could be corrosive, contain sharps or be full of bacteria).

The Gorman-Rupp Ultra V Series pump has been built with operator safety as a high priority. These pumps feature pressure relief valves, ‘burst disc’ flap valves that can be replaced without opening the pump and a very safe fill port cover.

For the complete white paper on wastewater pump operator safety, go to www.pump-stations.com.au.

Image courtesy of Hydro Innovations.