Water Treatment Operator-in-Training (OIT) Practice Test

The appropriate minimum pressure that should be maintained in nearby areas when flushing a watermain is 350 kPa. This value is critical because it ensures that there is sufficient pressure in the system to avoid the risk of backflow, which could lead to contamination of the water supply. Additionally, maintaining pressure above this threshold helps in preventing the disruption of water service to consumers, as low pressure can impact the delivery and availability of water in nearby homes and facilities. Ensuring that the pressure does not drop below this level also supports system integrity by preventing any damage that could arise from pressure fluctuations during the flushing process, while allowing for proper removal of sediments and debris in the watermain.