As Ohio begins this transition to reopen many businesses, buildings that had little to no water usage during the COVID-19 Stay at Home Order will once again be occupied. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Ohio Department of Health have issued a reminder to all occupants, owners, and tenants that it is important to flush water that has been stagnant (both hot and cold distribution lines). Low water usage can lead to many water quality issues with associated health risks, including the growth of various bacteria and the build-up of lead and copper. To prevent these water quality issues, it’s important to drain, flush and possibly disinfect the hot and cold water systems along with any other devices that store water, including water fountains, water heaters, storage tanks, humidifiers, shower heads, etc.
For more information on proper reopening procedures, reference the Guidance for Premise Plumbing Water Service Restoration publication from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Ohio Department of Health.