CAMPUS NOTICE

 

ENVIRONMENT, HEALTH AND SAFETY

June 1, 2009


ALL ACADEMICS AND STAFF AT UCSD (excluding UCSD Healthcare)

SUBJECT:    Campus Fire Hydrant Flow Testing

UC San Diego is required by California Code to test fire hydrants for proper function and to evaluate water flow available for firefighting. Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) will be flow testing hydrants on campus between June 8 and August 15, 2009.

Hydrant flushing often stirs up sediment in the water lines and results in temporary brown or "rusty" sediment in tap water. This does not indicate a problem with the water system and can be ignored by building occupants.

If you choose to flush rusty water from pipes simply open one faucet and run cold water until the water runs clear. After flushing faucets, check mesh strainers and remove any debris that may have become trapped.

If laundry becomes discolored by rust, wash again immediately. Do not dry first, as drying may make the rust more difficult to remove. Also, do not use chlorine bleach with rust-stained laundry. The chlorine reacts with the rust and may make the problem worse.

Questions regarding rusty water related to fire hydrant testing may be directed to Environment, Health and Safety at (858) 534-3660.


Stephen K. Benedict
Director
Environment, Health and Safety
and Risk Management