Description

If a municipal water supply is disrupted or contaminated, then a number of steps should be taken until a safe water supply is restored.


 

Types of contamination:

(1) infectious (bacterial, protozoal, viral)

(2) chemical

 

If the disruption is planned or predicted, then:

(1) Disconnect ice machines, water fountains and other potable water sources.

(2) Develop a contingency plan to provide sufficient bottled water to meet needs during the expected period of service disruption.

 

Steps during advisory:

(1) Do not consume water from any source using municipal tap water (sink, water fountain, ice machine, other).

(2) Water for drinking should be either bottled water or water brought to a rolling boil for >= 1 minute.

 

Steps after problem with water supply fixed:

(1) Remove contaminated water from the water pipes by one or more of the following:

(1a) Run all faucets and drinking fountains for >= 5 minutes.

(1b) Use high-temperature water flushing if infectious contamination occurred.

(1c) Chlorination of the water lines if infectious contamination occurred.

(1d) Flush and decontaminate ice machines or other equipment.

(1e) Replace in-line filters that may be contaminated.

(2) Monitor potentially exposed persons for evidence of water-borne disease (infection, chemical toxicity).

 


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