What must new and repaired mains undergo before being put into service?

New and repaired mains must undergo both flushing and disinfecting before being put into service to ensure the safety and quality of the water that will flow through them. Flushing is essential for removing any debris, sediment, or contaminants that may have accumulated during installation or repair. This step helps ensure that water is clean and clear before it enters the distribution system.

Disinfecting, typically done using some type of chlorine, is crucial for eliminating any bacteria, viruses, or pathogens that could pose a health risk to consumers. This process is integral to maintaining public health standards and complies with regulatory requirements.

The combination of these two processes—flushing and disinfecting—ensures that the water mains are safe and ready for use, providing clean drinking water to the community.