What should you do if a safety valve begins to leak?

When a safety valve begins to leak, the appropriate action is to investigate and repair or replace the safety valve. Safety valves are critical components of a steam system designed to release excess pressure and prevent dangerous overpressurization. If a safety valve is leaking, it indicates a malfunction that could compromise the safety of the entire system.

Addressing the leak promptly helps to prevent potential accidents, such as system failures or even explosive incidents due to excessive pressure build-up. Repairing or replacing the valve ensures that it operates correctly and can perform its function of relieving pressure effectively when needed.

Neglecting the leak by ignoring it until the next scheduled maintenance can lead to more severe issues, including safety hazards. Increasing the steam pressure to stop the leak is counterproductive and dangerous, as it exacerbates the risk associated with an already faulty safety device. Although performing a routine check on the entire system is important, it does not specifically address the immediate concern of the leaking safety valve and may lead to further complications if the leak is allowed to continue unresolved.