What is the purpose of tagging a coupon when tapping a main line?

Tagging a coupon when tapping a main line serves the primary purpose of recording the condition of the water main. This practice helps operators and maintenance personnel keep a detailed log of the state of the infrastructure. By tagging, they can note any anomalies, such as corrosion, cracking, or other forms of wear and tear, which can be crucial for future assessments and decisions regarding maintenance or replacement.

Such an approach helps ensure that the overall health of the water distribution system is monitored over time. This information becomes valuable when planning repairs, upgrades, or maintenance activities. Proper documentation of the condition also enhances safety as it provides critical insights into the operational integrity of the pipeline system.

The other choices, while related to the management of a water distribution system, do not accurately capture the primary purpose of tagging a coupon. For instance, providing information to the public does not directly relate to the technical management of the water main, and determining the pipe's diameter is typically accomplished using specific tools and measurements rather than tagging. Facilitating faster repairs, while beneficial, is a secondary effect of having accurate records rather than the main function of the coupon tagging process.