What must be ensured for safety around pump couplings?

For safety around pump couplings, it is essential that they are properly guarded. Guarding is a critical safety measure that prevents personnel from coming into direct contact with moving parts. This protection helps to reduce the risk of accidents, such as entanglement or severe injury, as well as minimizing the chances of equipment damage due to improper handling. Proper guards should be securely in place to ensure they are effective at blocking access to hazardous areas without interfering with the operation of the pump or the coupling itself.

Other considerations, while important in their own right, such as painting couplings to enhance visibility or conducting regular inspections, do not directly address the immediate safety hazard posed by exposed moving parts. Additionally, leaving couplings exposed contravenes safety best practices and could lead to a dangerous work environment. Hence, proper guarding stands out as the most crucial requirement for ensuring safety around pump couplings.