A chlorine flush is a procedure involving the application of a 12% solution of sodium hypochlorite to GID's water tank and lines in order to disinfect any part of the infrastructure that may have tested positive for coliforms.

Yes, the water will be treated with a quantity of sodium hypochlorite 12% that is within Canada's Drinking Water Guidelines.

Coliforms can develop into increased quantities that are associated with an elevated risk of waterborne diseases, including gastroenteritis. Coliforms are living bacteria that divide and multiply, so even a small count should be prevented.

The chlorine used is a sodium hypochlorite 12% solution.

Run your tap for at least 5 minutes. Leave tap water on the counter in an open carafe for a few hours or until the chlorine smell dissipates. Citric acid neutralizes chlorine so a little squeeze of lemon works as well. We have received reports of a chlorine smell still detected in the water after a week. As more people use the water, the smell will dissipate.

GID tests weekly at sample stations throughout the District. All samples must show less than one part per million. 

At the time of the flush, it may be unknown how bacteria has entered the system. There may be instances where organic matter was introduced in above-water openings, or even that bacteria entered during the water sampling procedure itself, regardless of sanitary precautions.

Both chlorine and bleach come in several forms, so one is not exactly the other. The chlorine used in GID flushes is a 12% solution of sodium hypochlorite. However, the smell and taste of this disinfectant does smell and taste as you might expect bleach to taste. This does not mean bleach is safe for consumption.

GID water is untreated, except during our bi-yearly planned flushes or when bacteria has been detected. The aquifer water is considered pristine, so does not need constant treatment. The water does however have natural components, such as minerals for example.