PWS ( Public Water Systems) DIVING & MAINTENANCE

The advantage of conserving water by not draining the reservoir prior to the inspection is obvious. However, if these inspections are not conducted properly, the safety of the inspection team and the drinking water supply could be in jeopardy. Here are some key safety factors that will be practiced by NAT and your department during and after underwater reservoir inspections:

- The reservoir should be isolated from the potable water system during the inspection. On-line inspections are not recommended as unanticipated demands on the system during diving inspections could pose serious dangers to the inspection team.

- If on-line inspections are required positive flow into the reservoir should be maintained.

- A minimum of 0.5mg/L of free chlorine or 1.0mg/L of chloramine should be maintained in the reservoir during inspection.

- Divers will use encapsulated dry suit, fully sealed helmet. However, appropriate coliform sampling should be completed prior to returning reservoir to service.

- All equipment that will be introduced into the water is dedicated to potable water use and will be disinfected immediately prior to entry for each dive.