What is the most important consideration in an automatic startup after a power failure?

In an automatic startup after a power failure, the most important consideration is operator safety. This is crucial because during a power outage, systems may not be functioning correctly, leading to unpredictable situations. As the system begins to restart, there is a risk of equipment malfunction or hazards such as unexpected pressure releases or electrical hazards. Ensuring the safety of operators means that proper protocols and safeguards are in place to protect them as they monitor and manage the restart of equipment and processes.

Operator safety takes precedence because even with other considerations like process importance or water quality, an unsafe working environment can lead to accidents or injuries. Therefore, measures must be established to ensure that operators are out of harm's way, using safeguards such as emergency stop buttons or lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidents during the startup sequence.