During a plant inspection, with no compressors running, what should be your first action?

When no compressors are running during a plant inspection, the first action should be to check that the compressors are being called for. This is crucial because it ensures that the system is receiving the correct signals for operation. If the compressors are not being called for, it could indicate an issue with the control system or other components that manage when the compressors should operate.

Verifying that the compressors are being activated allows the operator to identify if the issue is related to the power supply, controls, or external factors, before moving on to inspect other areas. This step is fundamental in diagnostics, as understanding whether the demand for refrigeration exists will inform the next steps in troubleshooting.

Other actions, such as checking the power supply or inspecting refrigerant levels, are important but should come after confirming that the system is set up correctly to operate. Looking for visual signs of mechanical failure may also come later, as it benefits from establishing that the system is operationally called first. This methodical approach helps pinpoint problems efficiently during an inspection.