Re NVGs. If the unit was cleared to operate with them, and if the aircraft was "NVG serviceable" on the night, then given the dark lumpy areas up there, the crew would probably wearing them. We always did.
Also, if the above is true, then the cockpit would be completely NVG compatible.
As to why both Transfer pumps were off, with all the constant switching on and off as they illuminate in the cruise and hover, as some operators do, perhaps that's why in 15 years or so I never did. Just left them on to work when they were re-immersed in fuel.
I can't recall any incidents of premature pump replacement.