Protection of Drinking Water: Backflow Prevention/Cross Connection Control

State rules or local ordinances may include requirements for backflow prevention assemblies, such as specifications and certifications of backflow prevention assemblies. Generally, the backflow prevention devices should be approved by a third-party certifying agency. The devices should also be equipped with cocks on both ends in order to periodically test for adequate function.

Backflow prevention devices should be located as close to the service connection as is practicable. This is to allow testing of the devices while minimizing intrusion onto the property of the consumer. Testing of backflow prevention assemblies should be performed after installation, relocation, or repair, and on an annual basis thereafter to ensure adequate operation.

The management of a backflow prevention program should include some key elements. The utility should develop and maintain a list of establishments that require backflow prevention (e.g. commercial, industrial entities) and the type of device employed. It is recommended that property addresses of these establishments be linked to actual devices serving the property (e.g. using device model numbers and/or serial numbers). Therefore, the preparation and maintenance of records of regulated backflow prevention assemblies, including annual testing schedules and results are essential.

To provide the greatest assurance that devices are operating properly, backflow prevention assembly testers should be certified to perform their responsibilities. This involves specialized training above and beyond general plumbing skills. Water systems should maintain lists of certified testers who operate within their jurisdictions and make that list readily available to customers who would need those services. Some states may also require the administrator of the backflow prevention and cross connection control program for the water system also be specifically certified to carry out this responsibility. This provides some credibility for the local program to certified testers.

Compliance assistance followed by enforcement may be necessary to ensure all customers and or their testers comply. Enforcement should follow procedures established in an Enforcement Response Plan or Enforcement Escalation Policy and should be coordinated with the water system or local entity legal department, to the degree necessary. Maintenance of accurate, up to date, backflow device and testing records is critical for successful enforcement when it becomes necessary.

Finally, some states will require water systems to periodically report, usually annually, to the primacy agency (i.e. state agency responsible for enforcement of drinking water regulations) on the status of the backflow prevention program. The data requirements for managing these programs, especially for middle and large water systems can be daunting. Technology can assist with managing the data, backflow prevention devices, testing schedules and tester certification status and the program in general.