Backflow - Cross Connection
Overview
The City of Henderson's Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Protection Program is dedicated to safeguarding our community’s drinking water supply by preventing contamination or pollution within the distribution system. This program ensures that proper backflow prevention devices are installed, tested, and maintained, protecting the potable water system from potential hazards caused by cross-connections with non-potable water sources.
Cross Connection
A cross-connection is a point in a plumbing system where the potable (drinking) water supply is connected, directly or indirectly, to a non-potable source, such as wastewater, chemicals, or other contaminants. These connections can pose a significant risk to public health if backflow occurs, allowing contaminated water to enter the clean water system. Cross-connections may be found in various settings, including irrigation systems, industrial processes, and residential plumbing. To mitigate this risk, cross-connections must be identified and safeguarded using appropriate backflow prevention devices, regular inspections, and proper system design, as required by plumbing codes and water safety regulations.
Backflow Prevention
A backflow prevention device is a mechanical apparatus designed to protect potable water supplies from contamination or pollution due to backflow. Backflow occurs when the normal direction of water flow reverses, potentially allowing contaminants from non-potable sources to enter the clean water supply.
These devices are essential for maintaining water safety in plumbing systems, particularly in locations where water pressure fluctuations or cross-connections could occur, such as in irrigation systems, industrial facilities, and residential setups.
Common types of backflow prevention devices include:
Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers (AVB): A simple device that prevents back siphonage by introducing air into the system when backflow occurs. AVBs are typically installed downstream of the last valve and are not suitable for continuous pressure applications.
Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA): Consists of two independent check valves and is suitable for preventing both back siphonage and back pressure in low- to medium-hazard situations.
Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Assemblies: Provides the highest level of protection by using two check valves with a pressure monitoring zone in between. This design is suitable for high-hazard situations, including those involving toxic substances.
Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB): Similar to AVBs but can operate under continuous pressure, commonly used for irrigation systems.
Check Valves: A basic device allowing water to flow in one direction only, often used in less critical applications.
The City of Henderson mandates the installation of Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) assemblies as the required backflow prevention device for all hazards situations. RPZ assemblies provide the highest level of protection against backflow, utilizing two check valves and a pressure monitoring zone to prevent contamination from toxic or hazardous substances. This ensures the safety and integrity of the public water supply by preventing any reverse flow of potentially harmful water into the system.
Backflow Device Inspections
Beginning June 2023, the City of Henderson has contracted with Backflow Solutions, Inc. (BSI), a leading backflow data management firm, to simplify and improve the test reporting process. All backflow test reports must now be submitted through BSI Online, an easy-to-use online tracking system. The City will no longer accept test reports directly; BSI Online will serve as the primary point of contact for the program.
Backflow and cross connection control devices must be tested annually by a certified tester and reported back to BSI Online for approval.
Fax: 888-414-4990
Mail: PO Box 246, Worth, IL 60482
Water Customer Support:
Phone: 888-966-6050
Email: support@backflow.com
Testing Company Support:
Phone: 800-414-4990
Email: bsionline@backflow.com