After informing the client about decommissioning, which action should occur immediately to support safe work?

• A. Isolate and reduce the system pressure
• B. Check the water quality in the supply line
• C. Prepare a maintenance plan
• D. Turn off the electrical supply to pumps

Answer: (A)

The immediate priority is to bring the system to a safe state by isolating the section and depressurizing it. Closing the appropriate isolation valves and relieving the pressure stops any flow and removes stored energy in the pipes, which prevents unexpected discharges, water hammer, or sprays when you disconnect components. This makes subsequent tasks like draining, repairing, or removing equipment safer for workers and reduces the risk of spills or contamination. While checking water quality, planning maintenance, or turning off pumps are important steps, they don’t provide the immediate safety benefit of depressurizing and isolating the circuit to a safe condition.