Kauai Sun

Department of Water issued the following announcement on Nov. 25.

The Department of Water (DOW) reminds resort properties and large commercial facilities to conduct a flushing of their plumbing fixtures on property at least once a week and prior to reopening for business.  The flushing protocol is also recommended to schools and businesses that have significantly reduced their water demand within their systems during COVID-19 related closures or extended property vacancies. 

A significant decrease in water demand; which includes the discontinued use and maintenance of water fixtures within a building can cause stagnation; furthermore, existing sediment in pipes can be stirred up in the water upon returning to normal water use. The flushing process will help to prevent stagnation, clear out existing sediment and help to ensure chlorine residuals (which checks microbial growth) are maintained within their facilities.  

Existing maintenance plans should also include the proper care of cooling and air conditioning systems and frequently maintaining and flushing the property’s hot water systems to avoid unwanted microbial growth; such as Legionella, during extended periods of non-use.  Customers are also advised to check the backflow preventer on their property to confirm that it is functioning properly.

DOW closely monitors chlorine residuals levels on its water systems and conducts routine flushing protocols to ensure water quality continues to be safe and remains in compliance with state and federal regulations for drinking water.

For further guidance on the development of a long-term Water Management Program, customers may visit the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC) website at www.cdc.gov or by clicking on their direct link here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/building-water-system.html.  Additionally, the American Water Works Association (AWWA) recently released an informational guide on responding to water stagnation in buildings with reduced water use.  To view the guide, click here: https://www.awwa.org/Portals/0/AWWA/Government/20201001FrameworkforBuildingManagersFINALDistCopy.pdf, customers may also visit their website at www.awwa.org.

Original source can be found here.