What is the recommended action if a water main experiences a pressure drop during testing?

When a water main experiences a pressure drop during testing, the recommended action is to inspect connections and joints for leaks. This is crucial because a drop in pressure often indicates that there may be a breach in the system, such as a leak or failure at a joint or connection point. Identifying the source of the pressure loss is essential for maintaining the integrity of the water distribution system and for ensuring that water quality is not compromised.

Inspecting the connections and joints allows for the pinpointing of any issues that need to be addressed before the system can be safely put back into operation. If leaks are identified, necessary repairs can be made to restore proper pressure and prevent further issues down the line.

While flushing with clean water might be beneficial in certain scenarios or for particular issues, it does not address the root cause of a pressure drop. Similarly, adding more chlorine is not a solution to a physical pressure issue. Documenting the readings is important for records and analysis but should not be the sole action if there is a significant issue requiring immediate investigation.