During which scenario would a candidate automatically fail the practical test?

In a practical test, a dry pump situation signifies that no water is being supplied to the pump, which can greatly impact its functionality. This situation is critical because a firefighter relies on the ability to pump water effectively during various emergency scenarios. If the candidate is unable to manage or rectify a dry pump situation, it indicates a significant failure to execute essential skills required for the role of a driver engineer. A dry pump means that even if all other actions are technically sound, the fundamental task of moving water is compromised, leading to an automatic failure in the practical test. This scenario reflects a deeper issue in training and understanding of operational procedures, which are vital for effective fireground operations.