What is the recommended action if a valve is leaking at the outlet?

• A. Continue pumping and tighten the packing while draining the line.
• B. Ignore the leak to avoid stopping operations.
• C. Increase the discharge pressure to seal the leak.
• D. Stop pumping, secure the line, and repair or replace the faulty valve.

Answer: (D)

When a valve leaks at the outlet, the priority is to stop the flow, secure the line, and repair or replace the valve. Under pressure, the leak can worsen, cause water hammer, or injure personnel, so continuing to pump or trying a quick fix isn’t safe or reliable. Ignoring the leak or increasing discharge pressure only makes the problem worse and can damage the equipment. After stopping pumping and isolating the line, fix or replace the faulty valve and then recheck for leaks before returning to service.