Cross-Connection Control Program

Many communities in NS have put in place Cross-Connection Control (CCC) Programs to safeguard their water systems from water flowing backwards into the public water system, which presents a risk of contamination, as well as a potential risk to your property’s water system. This safeguard is achieved through the installation of backflow preventers.

CCC Programs are generally supported by water use bylaws, and/or utility regulations mandating that backflow prevention devices are installed and maintained to prevent backflow of potentially hazardous substances into the water supply. Programs typically monitor the installation, maintenance, and field testing of backflow preventers within a distribution system. CCC Programs are an important part of a multi-barrier approach to protecting safe drinking water.

The Town’s Water Utility is now partnered with BSI, for administrative purposes, to help us launch our new CCC Program. BSI Online will be maintaining an organized database of water customers with backflow preventers and ensuring these are kept up to date with the current testing requirements.
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Cross-Connection Control Q&A​

What is backflow?

Typically, water will flow from the public water supply to the consumer’s plumbing distribution system. Backflow is the undesirable reversal of this flow of water and undesirable substances from the non-potable source to the potable source.
Potable Water = Drinking Water 💧
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how does backflow happen?

There are two types of backflow: backpressure and backsiphonage  

• Backpressure: created when the pressure within the customer’s system becomes greater than the water supply pressure. Elevated tanks, heating systems and booster pumps are some of the main causes of backpressure. 
• Back-siphonage: created when there is a negative or reduced pressure in the water supply main. Water main breaks or hydrant flushing are two of the main causes of back-siphonage. 

What is Cross-connection?

A cross-connection is any actual or potential connection between the public or consumer’s potable water system and any non-potable source or substance that presents a hazard to the quality of the public or consumer’s potable water system. Therefore, cross-connection control is the management or “control” of these cross-connections to protect public safety by preventing backflow incidents within the public or water consumer’s potable water system. 
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what is a backflow preventer?

A backflow preventer is a device or assembly that is a means to prevent backflow. This device provides a physical barrier to backflow while protecting potable water supplies from contamination, it allows water to flow in one direction but never in the opposite direction.  
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what is an anti-siphon device?

Anti-siphon devices are essentially one-way valves designed to stop the flow of potentially contaminated water back into the drinkable (potable) water supply. Anti-siphoning capabilities are required by code on certain plumbing devices, such as exterior faucets (sill-cocks) or utility sink faucets.
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is backflow prevention part of the national plumbing code of canada?

YES!

See Section 2.6. Potable Water System subsection 2. Protection from Contamination
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how is a backflow assembly tested?

A qualified professional in your jurisdiction will utilize a backflow preventer test kit. The backflow preventer test kit is a compact portable device that measures differential pressure and is used for all testing of backflow prevention assemblies (DCVA, RP, PVB and SVB types). Depending on the model, test kits come equipped with either 3 or 5 soft seated needle valves. Equipped with a full-face scale, the kit can measure a range of 0-15 psid (psi differential). Test kits are equipped with three color-coded service hoses with inline filters for connecting the test kit to the backflow prevention assembly. 

Manufacturers of backflow assemblies and most regulating authorities require annual testing to ensure the assembly is functioning properly. Backflow assemblies are mechanical devices. Just like car maintenance with regular oil changes, a backflow assembly must be checked to ensure it functions properly. 
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what happens if the backflow assembly fails a test? do they need to be repaired?

Yes! If a backflow assembly fails the test and does not meet state standards per device type, the assembly must be repaired. The water purveyor determines the time required to have the repairs made. After repair, the assembly must be re-tested to ensure proper functionality. 
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who has responsibility for an approved and effective cross-connection control program?

The water provider, local plumbing tradespersons, water consumers and all individuals performing backflow prevention assembly installation, testing and repairs have some level of responsibility for ensuring an effective, efficient cross-connection control program. The individuals performing backflow prevention assembly installation, testing and repairs are responsible for following all codes and regulations as outlined by the state and local cross-connection control program. The local plumbing tradesperson is responsible for implementing and enforcing the local plumbing codes. The water consumer is responsible for preventing unprotected cross-connections and maintaining protected cross-connections within the water consumer’s facility.

To learn more about CCC Programs, visit backflow.com/backflow-academy

For a list of Certified Backflow Testers recognized by BSI, click here.
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