What is the maximum acceptable chlorine dosage needed for disinfection of new mains?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Study for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Class D Water Operator License Exam. Access flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and get ready for the exam!

The maximum acceptable chlorine dosage for the disinfection of new mains is 50 mg/L. This level has been established to ensure effective disinfection while minimizing the potential for harmful byproducts. Chlorine is widely used in water treatment processes to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, making it a key component of ensuring safe drinking water.

Utilizing a dosage up to 50 mg/L allows for a sufficient concentration to achieve adequate disinfection rates, especially in newly installed pipelines where there may be a greater risk of contamination. It is important to maintain this balance to effectively sanitize the water system while also being mindful of the health effects of chlorine residues that may remain in the water after treatment.

Surpassing this level (such as the higher dosages mentioned) can lead to issues like taste and odor problems in the water supply, as well as potential health concerns related to the formation of disinfection byproducts, which can occur when chlorine reacts with organic material in the water. Therefore, adhering to the maximum dosage limit of 50 mg/L is a critical practice in the disinfection protocol for new mains to ensure both safety and water quality.