What is the recognized flushing procedure after work has been completed on existing hot or cold pipework?

The recognized flushing procedure after completing work on existing hot or cold pipework involves opening the tap nearest to the work area first. This is important because it helps eliminate any debris or particles that may have been dislodged during the plumbing work. By prioritizing the tap closest to the affected area, the plumbing system can flush out stagnant water, dirt, and potentially harmful contaminants, ensuring that clean and uncontaminated water flows throughout the entire system.

The approach recognizes the need to establish a clear path for the water to flow and effectively clear out any residual matter from the recent plumbing interventions. This method also allows for better control of the flushing process, thus ensuring that the system is thoroughly cleared.

In contrast, turning off all taps can lead to trapped air and debris within the line, which would not resolve the issues created during the work. Flushing the system with chemicals may be necessary in some situations, but it's not the standard procedure right after basic plumbing work. Allowing the water to run for a specified time, such as five minutes, may not be as effective because it doesn’t prioritize clearing water from the most affected areas first.