What is a pump guard designed to do?

A pump guard is designed primarily to protect operators from the hazards associated with rotating parts of a pump. This protective device serves as a barrier that prevents accidental contact with moving components, which can cause serious injuries. The importance of safety in water treatment facilities cannot be overstated, as operators are often working in close proximity to machines that could pose significant risks.

While increasing water flow, enhancing pump efficiency, and reducing noise levels might be desirable outcomes in some pumping systems, these are not the primary functions of a pump guard. The guard's main focus remains on ensuring the safety of personnel by minimizing the risks of entanglement or injury while working around or maintaining pumping equipment. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the critical safety role of the pump guard in a water treatment setting.