Surface mounted pumps have a few advantages. The main advantage is the fact that they are not under water. In industrial applications, there can be harsh materials that can quickly corrode and damage the pumps. Submersible pumps in this situation must be stainless steel, which can dramatically increase the price. Even with stainless steel pumps, it is difficult to find a model that can completely combat the corrosive nature of the conditions. Surface mounted pumps keep the motor and all components of the pumps out of these harsh conditions by pulling the water up from the bottom of the wet well through stainless steel shafts. Another advantage is that lift station operators and maintenance personnel are able to work on the pumps without entering the wet well. This drastically reduces the hazards and safety precautions that are associated with confined spaces, falls, and drowning.