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Provide information regarding transportation, meet- is included in Appendix C-1. The instructor should
ing time and location, arrangements for lunch, and any complete a copy of the form, and then duplicate it for
special equipment that may be needed (such as a clip- student distribution.
board and pen).
Conducting the Survey
Inform students that backflow-prevention devices are
generally located in areas that may require climbing Once you have completed all the planning activities,
ladders and stairs, where floors may be wet and/or you should be fully prepared to conduct the survey.
slippery, and that they should dress accordingly. When all the students have gathered at the
Planning the Tour designated meeting place, briefly go over the
objectives and purpose of the field survey.
Because space is limited in many facilities where back- o Explain how to fill out the Survey Forms
flow-prevention devices are installed, or where cross
(C-l-2) for each facility.
connections are likely to be found, you should limit . If you have more than one group, assign indi-
the size ofeach group to five to ten students. Ifa larger
viduals to accompany your assistants.
group is anticipated, make arrangements for two or o Hand out the itinerary(ies) and briefly describe
three assistants who are knowledgeable about cross
the selected facilities that will be surveyed.
connections to accompany additional groups of five o lnform students of the locations and time of
to ten students each. Plan your itinerary(ies) so that
the final meeting at the end of the day to cri-
no two groups are at the same facility at the same time.
tique the field survey.
Be sure to let the facility manager know that there will
o Ask if everyone has all the materials they need
be several groups touring the facility, their approxi-
(you may want to have a few extra survey
mate time of arrival, and the group leader,s name.
forms and pencils available).
o Inform students of the first destination, meet-
Try to schedule arrival of the group at a time of day
ing time, and location prior to departure.
that will not conflict with the company,s busiest time.
(Don't plan to inspect a restaurant at I l:30 a.m., for
Survey Notes to the lnstructor
example).
On arrival at each facility, or while in transit if the
Since the field survey will interrupt the routine at the group is traveling together, describe the facility you
facility, you may want to consider selecting different will be surveying, including:
(but similar) facilities for each group to survey. This
o What type of business or industry is carried
will, of course, increase the planning necessary, but the
interruptions will be minimized at the host facilities. out at the facility
o Types of contaminants, such as corrosion
Transporting students to the facilities to be surveyed inhibitors, toxic chemicals, sewage or indus-
can be accomplished by using private automobiles (be trial waste; degrees of hazard; known pressure
sure to provide a map and itinerary); by using city or conditiong
o Types of installed devices or potential cross
county vans, ifavailable; or by using public transpor-
tation, if available. Generally, it is advisable to keep connections that will or may be encountered
the group together, since travel time can be used for
discussions, questions, and answers. At each installation or cross connection, provide a
brief description of the problem. Be sure to point out
Try to select facilities that are not widely separated in the:
order to keep travel time to a minimum. Potable supply lines
o Nonpotable system
The instructor should travel the planned route(s), and . Any irregularities in the installation
approximate the survey time in advance in order to . Special conditions that must be considered
prepare an accurate itinerary. Traffic conditions such as downstream valves, inappropriate
should be kept in mind when planning the tour. A drainage, testing or repair limitations imposed
sample itinerary is shown below; a blank itinerary form by the physical location of the device
PRoGRAM PLANNING GUIDE C 101
Encourage students to ask questions, and then have . Is any immediate danger being posed by un-
them fill in pertinent information on the survey form. protected cross connections?
SamPle ltinerarY
CROSS.CONNECTION CONTROL FIELD SURVEY
May 12, 19-
\.-J
PROGRfiM PLANNING..GUIDE D
Condensed Program
for
Short Presentations
\t-_l
103
.l
Program Planning Guide D contains Program Outline and why should you
and Instructor Notes for presenting a condensed worry about cross
overview of cross-connection problems and control connections? ..10 minutes
measures for a short presentation (l-2 hours). Session II How do cross
connctions
Purpose of the Program happen? ......20minutes
Session III How can cross
This presentation is intended to provide a generall connections be
introduction to cross-connection problems, programs, prevented and how
and control measures where time does not allow for can you protect your
a full-day program. This program is suitable for use water system from
with general audiences who do not have a technical contamination? . . .. . . 15 minutes
background in water supply practices. The purpose of Session IV What does a cross-
the program is to alert the public, public officials; or connection control
other interested persons to the hazards associated with program include? . . . . 15 minutes
cross connections, and provide general information
that will encourage participants to support cross- Total Time I hour
connection control efforts in their community.
Plan to spend l0 or l5 minutes answering questions
Program Planning Guide D can also be used to rein-
after the presentation is completed.
force the awareness of cross-connection problems and
control measures at state and local meetings of
technical personnel. Required Materials
104
I
and the instructor's table or podium placed to o The Manual of Cross Connection Prevention
one side of the screen. in Public Water Supplies. Missouri Section
AWWA.
Suggested Supplementary Readings
Sfandards and List of Approved Devices
The references in this section have been selected to . ASME Standard for Air Gaps in Plumbing
provide you with additional publications and articles Systems. Standard All2.l.2 (ANSI Approved).
that are available for background reading. This American Society of Mechanical Engineers,
reference list is also included in the student handout New York, N.Y. (Jan. 1973).
packet, Appendix D-1. . ASSE Performance Standard for Vacuum
Breakers, Antisiphon, Pressure Type.
Handbooks and Manuals
Standard 1020. American Society of Sanitary
o Angele, G.J. Sr. Cross Connections and Back- Engineering, Cleveland, Ohio (Nov. 1974).
flow Prevention. AWWA, Denver, Colo. (2nd . ASSE Standard for Backflow Preventers with
ed., 1974).* Intermediate Atmospheric Vent. Standard
o Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection 1012. American Society of Sanitary Engineer-
Control. Manual Ml4. AWWA, Denver, ing, Cleveland, Ohio (May 1972).
Colo. (1966).* . ASSE Standard for Double Check Valve Type
o Cross-Connection Control Manual. United Back Pressure Backflow Preventers. Standard
States Environmental Protection Agency, 1015. American Society of Sanitary Engineer-
EPA-430 / 9-73-002. Washingron, D.C. (t 975).1 ing, Cleveland, Ohio (May 1972).
o Manual of Cross-Connection Control. Foun- o ASSE Standard for Hose Connection Vacuum
dation for Cross-Conhection Control and Breakers. Standard l0l l. American Society of
Hydraulic Research, Los Angeles, Calif. (6th Sanitary Engineering, Cleveland, Ohio (June
ed.,1979).* 1970).
o ASSE Standard for Performance Require-
Se/ected State and AWWA Section Manuals (or your
ments for Pipe-Applied Atmospheric Type
own state manual, if available)"
Vacuum Breakers. Standard l@l (ANSI Stan-
Complete bibliographic citations are unavailable dard A I 12.l .l). American Society of Sanitary
for most manuals. Contact your state health Engineering, Cleveland, Ohio (1971).
department or AWWA section officers to obtain ASSE Standard for Performance Require-
copies. ments for Reduced Pressure Principle Back
'l0l
o Accepted Procedure and Practice in Cross Pressure Backflow Preventers. Standard 3.
Technical Papers
Journal AWWA Articles
. o Anderson, D.C. Cross-Connections-Their
Committee Report-Prevention of Ground-
Importance and Control. Proc. AWWA Ann.
water Backflow Into Distribution Systems.
AWWA Distribution Division Committee o Conf., Paper No. l8-5. (1981).
o Annual Summary of Water-Related DiseaSb
Prevention of Groundwater.Backflow in Di-
tribution Systems. Jour.AWWA, 7l:2:76 Outbreaks. Center for Disease Control, US
(Feb. 1979). Dept. of Health & Human Services, PHS,
o Craun, G.F. Outbreaks of Waterborne Dis- Atlanta, GA. (published annually).
o Klimko, R.G. Cross-Connection Control Pro-
ease in the United States: 197l-1978. Jour.
gram of the City of Cleveland. Proc. AWWA
AWWA, 73:7:360 (July l98l).
o Craun, G.F. et al. Waterborne Disease Out- Ann. Conf., Paper No. 22-b. (May 197'7).
o Ongerth, H.J. Cross Connection Control-
breaks in the US-1971-1978. Jour.AWWA,
68:8:420 (Aug. 1976). The California State Department of Health
o Craun, G.F., & Gunn, R.A. Outbreaks of Viewpoint. Proc. AWWA Ann. Conf., Paper
Waterborne Disease in the United States: 1975 No. 22-c. (May 1977).
o Springer, E.K. A Sip Could Be Fatal. Proc.
-1976. Jour.AWWA, 7 l:8:422 (Aug. 1979).
o Davis, J.H. & Murrell, L.R. Legal Aspects of AWWA Distribution System Symposium.
Backflow and Cross-Connection Control. Paper No. 3-1. (Feb. 1980).
Jour.AWWA, 68:8:397 (Aug. 1976).
r Springer, E.K. The Nuts and Bolts of Cross
o Lee, R.D. Protecting Community Water Sup- Connection. Proc. AWWA Distribution
plies. Jour.AWWA, 64:4:26 (April 1972). System Symposium, Paper No. 3-1. (1982).
o McQuillan, R.G. & Spenst, P.G. The Addition o Wubbena, S.L. A Comprehensive State/Local
of Cheriricals to Apartment Water Supplies. Approach to Cross-Connection Control. Proc.
Jour.AWWA, 68:8:415 (Aug. 1976). AWWA Ann. Conf., Paper No. 22-e. (May
o Miller, K.J. Counterpoint-The Regulation t977).
and Prevention of Cross Connections in Water
Distribution Systems. Jour.AWWA, 69:5: l3 Codes and Regulations
(May 1977). . 40 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) Part
o Roller, J.A. Cross-Connection Control Prac- l4l,page 230. Office of the Federal Register,
tices in Washington State. Jour.AWWA, National Archives and Records Service. U.S.
68:8:407 (Aug. 1976). Government Printing Office, Washington,
r Springer, E.K. Cross-Connection Control. D.C. (re83).
Jour.AWWA, 68:8:405 (Aug. 1976). o National Standard Plumbing Code. National
o Springer, E.K. Viewpoint-Wanted: Compre- Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling
hensive Cross Connection Control. Jour. Contractors and the American Society of
AWWA, 72:8:17 (Aug. 1980). Plumbing Engineers, Washington, D.C. (June
o Woodhull, R.S. Viewpoint-The Regulation 1975).
I ir:..r. -..:::i.l.t:,- .F
,q: cRoss-coNNEcroNcorurRol
. Occupational Safety and Health Act{OSHA) r The BOCA Basic.Plumbiqg Code. Building .----\
Subpart J, General Environnrental Controls, Officials and Code Admiqistrators Interna- l
paragraph 1910. l4l@X2[ii); Federal Register tional. Homewood, IL (sth ed. l98l). \---l
(Vol. 38, No. 85-P.1093S){May 3i,1973't.
e Standard PlumbingCode. outhern Building Uniform PlumbingCode, International Asso-
Code Congress International (SBCC). Bir- ciation of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
mingham, AL. (IAPMO). Los Angeles, CA.
$
PROGRAM OUTLINE AND NSTRUCTOR NOTES
Slide I
Slide ll l. The purpose of this presentation is to make students aware of hazards
associated with cross connections so steps can be taken to:
109
'!
1 1O cRoss-coNNEcroN coNTRoL
Slide 10 A. The water supplier is responsible for providing safe water to the
public by:
Vl. Summary
'1
. Negative pressure causes backsiphonage.
Slide 19 a. Negative pressure creates a partial vacuum in a sealed
tube or distribution system that can siphon (suck) liquids
into a potable system. Remember that liquids will flow
toward the point of lowest pressure. Backsiphonage
occurs when a negative pressure (partial vacuum) is
created in the water supply line.
PRoGRAM oUTLINE D _ SESSIoN II 1 15
lV. The link refers to the physical cross connection that causes or allows
backflow to occur.
SIide 29B 4. Some cross connections are temporary. They are created
by a hose, a malfunctioning device, or other impermanent
condition.
B. Whenever water is taken from the distribution system for uses other
than drinking, a potential hazard is posed and the possibility of
contamination through a cross connection is increased. Examples
of water usage that can pose a cross-connection hazard are:
Slide 408 d. Facilities are sometimes used for purposes other than
those for which they were originally intended.
Slide 47 D. Three factors should be kept in mind when determining where the
backflow-prevention device shoul*be installed:
(1) High hazards are those that can cause serious illness
or death.
(1) Moderate hazards are those that may cause mild ill-
ness or discomfort, bu-t are not life-threatening.
.+
(21 Moderate hazards include toilet tanks, dishwashers,
and soap dispensers.
\u
I
124 cRoss-coNNECTtoN coNTRoL
1. Air gap
Slide 48 b. The gap between the end of the potable system and the
eginning of the nonpotable system should be at least
tWo times the inside diameter of the potable water supply
pipe or as specified in local or state codes to protect
against backsiphonage (never less than 1 in.).
Slide 80B l. State and local codes and ordinances relating to cross connections
should specifically delegate authority and responsibility.
'1i,
A-1 - 8 175
Internal inspection should also be made periodically. Rubber membranes and gaskets, valve seats,
and the internal mechanism should be carefully inspected for rupture, scoring of metal, scaling,
corrosin, or any accumulation of dirt or foreign matter that would prevent the safe operation of
the device.
A complete inspection of a vacuum breaker installation also ncludes a determination that the device
has not been bypassed and that under no conditions could it be subjected to back pressure.
Pressure vacuum breakers must be installed 12 in. above the flood-level rim of the equipment
supplied and should be located at the highest point in the part of the water system served so as
to preclude any possibility of back pressure being applied to the device. A complete record, including
date of installation and information on all inspections, tests, and repairs, should be maintained on
each device. Any defects found during inspection or testing should be corrected immediately before
allowing the device to be placed back in service.
Note: This procedure is for the new design of loaded air-relief valve pressure vacuum breakers.
Equipment required:
Test no. 1
Requirement: the air-inlet valve shall open when the pressure in the body is 1.0 psi above
atmospheric pressure. And, the air opening valve shall be fully open when the water drains from
the body.
Steps:
B. Install the high-pressure hose of the differential pressure gauge to test cock no. 2 and
bleed air from the hose and gauge.
D. Slowly open the high-pressure vent needle valve. Note and record the
pressure
differential at which the air-inlet valve opens.
_
E. Glose test cock no. 2 and remove equipment.
7"esf no. 2
Purpose: To test the check valve for tightness in the direction of flow.
Requirement: The check valve shall be drip-tight in the normal direction of flow when the
inlet pressure is 1 psi and the outlet pressure is atmospheric.
Steps:
A. Install a transparent tube approximately 27% in. long in test cock no. 1 and fill with water.
D. Cise test cocks no. 1 and no. 2, remove the transparent tube and open the shut-off
valves no. 1 and no. 2.
gauge:
Steps:
A. Attach high pressure hose of differential gauge to the no. 2 test cock and vent all air
from hose and gauge.
D. Glose test cocks no. 1 and no. 2, remove gauge and open shut-off valves no.
1 and
no. 2.
Atmospheric vacuum breakers. The basic concept in testing an atmospheric vacuum breaker for proper
operation involves a determination that the air nlet will open fully when there is little or no water pressure
inside the device. The canopy or hood on the vacuum breaker should be removed, where possible, to
expose the air nlet. When testing an atmospheric vacuum breaker, the closest upstream valve should be
opened to allow water to fill the downstream piping. The valve is then closed. The vent ports should open
allowing air to enter the device and water to flow out the downstream piping. If water does not continu to
flow, or if there is a mere trickle, the vacuum breaker is not opening properly. The defect should be
corrected immediately and the device retested.
A-1-9
178
A - 1 -9 179
gation systems and fire systems, paired the device, and whether devices after they have been
should be dentified becausethey the device passed the final installed because if they are not
are usually not considered an inspection. checked a false sense of security
established part of a cross-con- It is also very mportant that a may develop and the device may
nection control program. complete inspection be made fail. The higher the hazard or
Vio/ations and penalties. This when conducting a site survey. threat to public health, the greater
section should addresstheenforce- The preventive measure for a the frequency of testing neces-
ment procedure for a customer complex plumbing system is not sary. Forexample, if thecommun-ity
who does not respond to the simply the installation of a back- has a hospital, a chemical treatment
notices provided by the supplier flow preventor at the tap. Danger plant, ora brewery it may be
that a cross connection exists. still lies within the plumbing necessary to inspect the valves
This section usually containspro- system, and each hazard must be two or three times a year.
visionsforafine, orimprisonment, isolated with an appropriate control Accident procedures. An im-
or both. device. portant part of a cross-connection
Assessing the system. Another The customers who are not pro- program is to establish a proce-
step in starting a program is to tected from cross connections dure to follow in case an accident
assess those users who pose a must be informed of the potential does occur. The following are
threat or potential hazard to the hazard. This must be done care- suggested procedures.
water system. The degree of fully in order not to upset the 1. Have an accurate map of the
hazard must be classified or cate- customer. If it is made clear why distribution system showing shut-
gorized. Forexample, a chemical the device is needed, the customer off valves, industrial users, fire
treatment plant may be more will usually be cooperative. hydrants, etc.
hazardous than a packing plant; If a user refuses to install a 2. Be assured of the services of
the packing plant may be more protective device, it may be neces- a qualified laboratory that will
hazardous than a morgue; the sary to send a notice stating that if a help determine possiblecontami-
morgue more hazardous than a protective device is not installed, the nants. The lab should be able to
hospital; and so on. The contain- system will have to termnate the run an analysis on short notice,
ment strategy for these hazards service. This notice should contain especially on weekends.
must then be established. Also, a statement emphasizing that 3. Keepa boxof samplebottles.
those reas in the system with low termination of service will be done available for the staff. Remember
pressure should be considered in a to protect the public health and that different types of Chemicals
cross-connection program as that the system would be liable should besampled using different
potentially dangerous. for any contamination to the types of bottles. For example,
Fieldinspection. The next step is water supply. A system is perfectly organic material is usually sam-
to conduct an actual field within its right to termnate service pled using a glass bottle, whereas
inspection. It is very important to to any user.who fails to comply inorganic material is sampled
identify those users who have with such a request. using a plstic bottle. Also, some
already installed backflow pre- Device testers. Certificacin of material dissipates rather quickly,
ventors, and to determine where device testers is another critical requiring a preservativo if the
such devices are needed. An part of any cross-connection pro- samplecannot bedelivered to the
inventory of devices already in- gram. Every water supplier should lab quickly.)
stalled should be madesothatthe have available the services of a 4. If a hazardous material has
device can be inspected and person who is knowledgeable, entered the system, phone num-
tested on a regular basis. well-trained, and capable of con- bers of the local health agencies,
The inventory report should ducting an accurate test on back- clinics, and doctors should be
contain at least the following flow devices (including devices available. The local news media
information: the ame of the such as a vacuum breaker, should also be contacted; how-
ownerof the premisesor the ame double-check valve, etc.) at least ever, be sure not to alarm the
of the premises, service address, on an annual basis. public unnecessarily.
location of the device, manufac- The water supplier can either Public relations program. Another
turerof thedeyice. model number, train their personnel to perform part of a cross-connection
device size. serial number, une these duties, which is usually the program is effective public rela-
pressure, result of test of the case with smaller Utilities, or tne tions. Handling customer com-
device satisfactory or in need of supplier may allow the consumer plaints is an integral part of a
repairs . If repairs were made, the to ire their own tester on an public relations program. It is
following information should be annual basis, which may reduce important that the utility employee
listed: which parts were replaced, the personnel costforthesupplier. receiving complaints betrained in
who tested the device, who re- It is important to test backflow handling complaints. The person
180 CROSS-CONNECTION
CONTROL
The following form is suggested for municipalities who want to adopt a cross-connection
control ordinance. The technical provisions are, for the most part, excerpted from a revisin of
the National Plumbing Code prepared by the Public Health Service Technical Committee on
Plumbing Standards (1962). Where the National Plumbing Code, or subsequent revisions
thereof, is in effect, the technical sections of the following can be replaced by a statement of
reference to the code. Communities adopting ordinances should check with state health
officials to ensure conformance with state codes. The form of the ordinance should comply
with local legal requirements.
Section 1. Authority
181
1 82 CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL
in his judgment, may, therefore, permit the pollution of the city water supply or otherwise adversely
affect the public health.
1.2 Inspection. The director, or his designated agent, shall have the right of entry into any building,
during reasonable hours, for the purpose of making inspection of the plumbing systems nstalled
in such building or premises provided that with respect to the inspection of any single family dwelling,
consent to such inspection shall first be obtained from a person of suitable age and discretion
therein or in control thereof.
Section 2. Definitions
2.1 Agency. The department of the municipal government invested with the authority and
responsibility for the enactment and enforcement of this ordinance.
2.2 Airgap. The unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the lowest
opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank, plumbing fixture, or other device and
the flood-level rm of the receptacle.
2.3 Approved. Accepted by the agency as meeting an applicable specification stated or cited
in this ordinance, or as suitable for the proposed use.
2.4 Auxiliary supply. Any water source or system other than the potable water supply that may
be available in the building or premises.
2.5 Backflow. The flow of water or other liquids, mixtures, or substances into the distributing pipes
of a potable supply of water from any source or sources other than its intended source.
Backsiphonage is one type of backflow.
2.7 Backsiphonage. Backflow resulting from negative pressures in the distributing pipes of a potable
water supply.
2.8 Barometric loop. A loop of pipe rising at least 35 ft, at its topmost point, above the highest
fixture it supplies.
2.9 Check valve. A self-closing device that is designed to permit the flow of fluids in one direction
and to cise if thre is a reversal of flow.
2.11 Cross connection. Any physical connection between a potable water supply and any waste
pipe, soil pipe, sewer, drain, or any unapproved source or system. Furthermore, it is any potable
water supply outlet that is submerged or can be submerged in wastewater and/or any other source
of contamination. See Backflow and Backsiphonage.
2.12 Drain. Any pipe that carries wastewater or waterborne wastes in a building drainage system.
A- 1 9 183
2.13 Fixture, plumbing. Installed receptacles, devices, or applian ces supplied with
water or that receive or discharge liquids or liquid-borne wastes.
2.14 Flood-level rim. The edge of the receptacle from which water overflows.
2.15 Hazard, health. Any conditions, devices, or practices in the water supply system
and its operation that crate, or, in the judgment of the director, may crate, a danger
to the health and well-being of the water consumer. An example of a health hazard is a
structural defect in the water supply system, whether of location, design, or
construction, that regularly or occasionally may prevent satisfactory purification of the
water supply or cause it to be polluted from extraneous sources.
2.16 Hazard, plumbing. Any arrangement of plumbing including piping and fixtures
whereby a cross connection is created.
2.17 Hydropneumatic tank. A pressure vessel in which air pressure acts on the surface
of the water contained within the vessel, pressurizing the water distribution piping
connected to the vessel.
2.18 Inlet. The open end of the water supply pipe through which the water is
discharged into the plumbing fixture.
2.19 Plumbing system. Includes the water supply and distribution pipes, plumbing
fixtures, and traps; soil, waste, and vent pipes; building drains and building sewers
including their respective connections, devices, and appurtenances within the property
lines of the premises; and water- treating or water-using equipment.
2.20 Pollution. The presence of any foreign substance (organic, inorganic, radiological,
orbiological) in water that tends to degrade its quality so as to constitu te a hazard or
impair the usefulness of the water.
2.22 Surge tank. The receiving, nonpressure vessel forming part of the air gap
separation between a potable and an auxiliary supply.
2.23 Vacuum. Any pressure less than that exerted by the atmosphere.
2.25 Vacuum breaker, pressure type. A vacuum breaker designed to oprate under
conditionsof static line pressure.
2.26 Water, potable. Water free from impurities in amounts sufficient to cause diseas e
or harmful physiological effects. Its bacteriological and chemical quality shall conform
t the requirements
1 84 CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL
of the Federal Drinking Water Standards or to the regulations of the public health
authority having jurisdiction.
2.27 Water, nonpotable. Water that s not safe for human consumption or that s of
questionable potability.
3.1 General. A potable water supply system shall be designed, installed, and
maintained in such manner as to prevent contamination from nonpotable liquids, so lids,
or gases being introduced into the potable water supply through cross connections or
any other piping connections to the system.
3.2 Cross connections prohibited. Cross connections between potable water systems
and othersystems or equipment containing water or other substances of unknown or
questionable quality are prohibited except when and where, as approved by the
authority having jurisdiction, suitable protective devices such as the reduced-pressure-
zone-backflow-preventer or equal are installed,tested, and maintained to ensure proper
operation on a continuing basis.
3.3 Interconnections. Interconnection between two or more public water supplies shall
be permitted only with the approval of the health authority having jurisdiction.
3.4 Individual water supplies. Cross connections between an individual water supply
and a potable public supply shall not be made unless specifically approved by the
health authority having jurisdiction.
3.5 Connections to boilers. Potable water connections to boilers shall be made through
an air gap or provided with an approved backflow preventer.
3.6 Prohibited connections to fixtures and equipment. Connection to the potable water
supply system for the following is prohibited unless protected against backflow in
accordance with section
(a) Bidets.
(c) Pumps for nonpotable water, Chemicals, or other substances priming connections
may be made only through an air gap.
refrigerant, the inlet connection shall be provided with an approved check valve. Also adjacent
to and at the outlet side of the check valve, an approved pressure-relief valve set to relieve at
5 psi above the mximum water pressure at the point of installation shall be provided if the
refrigeration units contain more than 20 Ib of refrigerants.
3.81 Water outlets. A potable water system shall be protected against backflow and backsiphonage
by providing and maintaining at each outlet:
(a) Air gap. An air gap, as specified in section 3.82, between the potable water outlet and
the flood-level rim of the fixture it supplies or between the outlet and any other source of contam-
ination, or
(a) How measured. The minimum required air gap shall be measured vertically from the lowest
end of a potable water outlet to the flood rim or line of the fixture or receptacle into which it
discharges.
(b) Size. The minimum required air gap shall be twice the effective opening of a potable water
outlet unless the outlet is a distance less than three times the effective opening away from a wall
or similar vertical surface, in which cases the minimum required air gap shall be three times the
effective opening of the outlet. In no case shall the minimum required air gap be less than shown
in Table 3.1.
3.83 Approval of devices. Before any device for the prevention of backflow or backsiphonage
s installed, it shall have first been certified by a recognized testing laboratory acceptable to the
agency director. Devices installed in a building's potable water supply distribution system for
protection against backflow shall be maintained in good working condition by the person or persons
responsible for the maintenance of the system.
The agency director, or his designated agent, shall routinely inspect such devices and, if found
to be detective or inoperative, shall require the replacement thereof.
(a) Vacuum breakers. Vacuum breakers shall be installed with the critical level at least 6 in.
above the flood-level rim of the fixture they serve and on the discharge side of the last control
valve to the fixture. No shutoff valve or faucet shall be nstalled beyond the vacuum breaker. For
closed equipment or vessels, such as pressure sterilizers, the top of the vessel shall be treated
as the flood-level rim but a check valve shall be installed on the discharge side of the vacuum breaker.
(c) Devices ofall types. Backflow and backsiphonage preventing devices shall be accessibly
located, preferably in the same room with the fixture they serve. Installation in utility or service
spaces, provided they are readily accessible, is also permitted.
(a) Where a potable water outlet terminates below the rim of a tank or vat and the tank or vat
has an overflow of diameter not less than given in Table 3.2, the overflow pipe shall be provided
with an air gap as cise to the tank as possible.
(b) The potable water outlet to the tank or vat shall termnate a distance not less than 1 Vz
times the height to which water can rise in the tank above the top of the overflow. This level shall
be established at the mximum flow rate of the supply to the tank or vat and with all outlets except
the air gap overflow outlet closed.
(c) The distance from the outlet to the high water level shall be measured from the critical
point of the potable water supply outle
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3.86 Protective devices required. Approved devices to protect against backflow and backsiphon-
age shall be installed at all fixtures and equipment where backflow and/or backsiphonage may occur
and where a minimum air gap cannot be provided between the water outlet to the fixture or equipment
and its flood-level rim.
(a) Connections not subject to back pressure. Where a water connection is not subject to
back pressure, a vacuum breaker shall be installed on the discharge side of the last valve on the
line serving the fixture or equipment. A list of some conditions requiring protective devices of this
kind is given in Table 3.3.
Hose bibbs (where aspirators or C-L at least 6 in. above flood level of receptacle served.
ejectors could be connected)
'Critical level (CL) is defined as the level to which the vacuum breaker may be submer ged before backflow will occur. Where the CL is not
shown on the preventer, the bottom of the device shall be taken as the C -L.
(b) Connections subject to back pressure. Where a potable water connection is made to a
line, fixture, tank, vat, pump, or other equipment with a hazard of backflow or backsiphonage where
the water connection is subject to back pressure, and an air gap cannot be installed, the director
may require the use of an approved reduced-pressure-principle-backflow-preventer. A partial list
of such connections is shown in Table 3.4.
Table 3.4 Partial List of Cross Connections That May Be Subject to Back
Pressure
Chemical lines Dock water Pumps
outlets Individual water Steam lines
supplies Industrial process Swimming pools
water lines Pressure tanks Tank and vatsbottom inlets
Hose bibbs
3.87 Double check-valves. The director may authorize installation of approved. double check-
valve assemblies with test cocks as protective devices against backflow in connections between
a potable water system and other fluid systems that present no significant health hazard in the
judgment of the director.
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3.88 Low pressure cutoff required on boosterpumps. When a booster pump is used on a water-
pressure booster system and the possibility exists that a positive pressure of 10 psi or less may occur
on the suction side of the pump, there shall be installed a low-pressure cutoff on the booster pump to
prevent the creation of a vacuum or negative pressure on the suction side of the pump, thus cutting
off water to other outlets.
4.1 General requirements. It shall be the responsibility of building and premise owners to maintain
all backflow preventers and vacuum breakers within the building or on the premises in good working
order and to make no piping or other arrangements for the purpose of bypassing backflow devices.
4.2 Backflow preventers. Periodic testing and inspection schedules shall be established by the
director for all backflow preventers, and the interval between testing and inspections and overhauls
of each device shall be established in accordance with the age and condition of the device.
Inspection ntervals should not exceed 1 year, and overhaul intervals should not exceed 5 years.
These devices should be inspected frequently after the initial installation to ensure that they have
been installed properly and that debris resulting from the installation has not interfered with the
functioning of the device. The testing procedures shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions when approved by the director.
5.1 Notification of violation. The director shall notify the owner, or authorized agent of the owner,
of the building or premises in which there is found a violation of this ordinance, of such violation.
The director shall set a reasonable time for the owner to have the violation removed or corrected.
On failure of the owner to have the defect corrected by the end of the specified time interval,
the director may, if in his judgment an imminent health hazard exists, cause the water service to
the building or premises to be terminated, and/or recommend such additional fines or penalties
to be invoked as herein may be provided.
5.2 Fines. The owner or authorized agent of the owner responsible for the maintenance of the
plumbing systems in the building who knowingly permits a violation to remain uncorrected after
the expiration of time set by the director shall, on conviction thereof by the court, be required
to pay a fine of not more than $100 for each violation. Each day of failure to comply with the
requirements of the ordinance, after the specified time provided under Section 5.1, shall constitute
a seprate violation.
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1. Route all new building permits, plans, and drawings through the person in charge of the
cross-connection control program.
2. Prior to inspection, gather all available information about the premises to be inspected.
4. Explain the reasons for cross-connection control to the person in charge of the facility.
5. Discuss any plans for future expansin that might require additional protection.
8. Use an inspection report to record results of each inspection and include diagrams.
9. At the time of inspection, explain what type of device will be required and the approximate
costs involved.
10. Furnish the customer with a list of approved devices. Notify him in writing as to the required
location of the device and the deadline for completing the installation.
B. Installation
1. RPZs, double check-valve assemblies, and pressure vacuum breakers installed within
buildings should be located in an rea where water spillage is not objectionable. A drain
capable of handling the mximum flow from the relief valve of the RPZ should be provided. An
air gap must be provided between the drain and the relief-valve port at the device when
installing a drain for the pressure-relief valve.
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1 90 CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL
3. Do not install an RPZ in a pit below ground level unless approved provisions are made to
keep the pit dry.
4. All chambers containing backflow-prevention devices shouid have removable tops to faciltate
removal of the devices.
5. All backflow-prevention devices must be protected against freezing, flooding, and mechanical
damage (vandalism).
8. The relief port drain from an RPZ shall not be reduced in size.
9. The drain pipe from an RPZ shall not be extended above the relief valve.
10. When installing a double check-valve assembly or RPZ on the feed-water line to a pressure
vessel, always install the pressure-relief valve between the backflow-prevention device and the
pressure vessel.
C. Maintenance
2. If the device is installed in a deep chamber, check the atmosphere for contamination.
3. If the device is to be removed from the line, provide a jumper wire to bypass stray electrical
currents.
4. Valve springs on large devices are strong and should be removed with caution.
5. Provide a drop cloth beneath the device during repairs to catch any stray parts.
6. Do not use excessive joint compound on the parts when making repairs.
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8. On an RPZ, the parts from the no. 1 check valve are not necessarily interchangeable
with the parts in the no. 2 check valve.
9. lf the RPZ is continuously draining from the relief port, either the first check valve, the
second check valve, or the relief valve has failed. The check valves should be cleaned
prior to calling the manufacturer.
10. lf shutoff valve no. 2 on an RPZ is closed and water begins to discharge from the relief
valve port, check valve no. 1 is probably leaking. The check valve should be cleaned
prior to calling the manufacturer.
11 . lf both shutoff valves on an RPZ are closed and test cock no. 2 is open, water should
begin to discharge from the relief valve port.
D. Testing
2. Notify the fire department when you are shutting down a fire service.
3. Use test equipment designed specifically for testing the types of backflow-prevention
devices that are installed.
4. Blow residual dirt out of the test cocks before attaching test gauges.
6. Most devices have a one-year manufacturer's warranty and should be tested prior to the
expiration date.
7 . Complete a report form each time you test a device and submit it to the person in charge
of the cross-connection control program. :;
t
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The purpose of this plumbing survey, as requested by the State Health Department, is for the location of CROSS CONNECI/O^/S
with the potable water supply. Your health and that of the commun\ may be affected, therefore it s everyone's civic duty to
eliminate CROSS CONNECTIONS. Drinking Water Standards prohibit any cross connection.
Number Number
Location: lnvestigator(s):
Building Representative(s) and Title(s):
Water Source(s):
Piping System(s):
Points of lnterconnection:
Remarks or Recommendations:
NOTE: Attach sketches of cross connections found where necessary for clarity of description. Attach
additional sheets
for room-by-room survey under headings:
Description of
Room Number Cross Connection(s)
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Sample
Backflow Device Test Report
Return No Later Than
Name of Premises
Service Address
Location of Device
Remarks:
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Mercury
Metallized dye 2,4-D
Methyl bromide 2,4,5-T
MH
197
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Your Health
Ilere are otter household
sltuations youtll
recognlze...
FLEXIBLE
r; SHOWER
HEADS
Ftstl
TANK FILLS
DARKROOIT
HOSES
POOL
FILL Did you notice? ln each case, the end ol the
HOSES hose s submerged. The waler and whatever
is in t-chemicals, poisons, bacteria-could
be sucked right back into your home by a
sudden drop in the city's watr pressure-
The danger comes whe your And hee's a hose left to fill a wadng Firemen fighling a blaze nearby could do it.
hose-any hose-is connected to a pool in the backyard. Ihe dangr You wou,dn t know it was happening util it
potentialiy harmful substance. For would be the same if it were
instance, there's the insecticide or submerged in a f u,l-size swmming Don't lel t happen to you! Be sure the end
weed killer you spread with a spray pool. ot yout hose is always kept cleat. Always!
aitachmeni. You wouldn't wanl that ln addilron. you can purchase inexpensrve
stuff to wind up in your drinkinq LAUNDNY
I
and easy-to-iostall backf low preventon
water- But it could HOSES I devices for all threaded faucets around your
home al major hardware or plumbng supply
houses.
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