Help with Cross Connection Control

A few years ago I shadowed a Maryland Department of the Environment sanitary survey of a small system in western Maryland. It was an eye-opening experience, especially since I was pretty green in the industry at the time. One thing really stuck with me: the importance of a cross connection control program. I also learned that this is one of the most commonly noted deficiencies in sanitary surveys.

A cross connection occurs whenever there is an actual or potential physical connection between the public drinking water system and any possible source of contamination.

We have documents from many states in our database (including specific regulations and requirements); these below are some of the most helpful introductory materials. What is included is not only helpful for water system operators, but also the public. Homeowners and businesses in your community play a large role in backflow prevention and this is not commonly understood by the general public.

Cross Connection Control: A Best Practices Guide
from US Environmental Protection Agency
This 4-page document is a fact sheet answering common questions about backflow and cross-connection control. It also contains information about the risks of cross-connections and well as some preventative advice. Technologies that are available to control cross-connections and prevent backflow are also covered.

Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control: Protecting our Public Water System
from Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
This 2-page flier presents information on backflow prevention. It discusses what it is, concerns associated with it, how it occurs and what it causes, and what can be done to protect the system. Some specific topics discusse include auxiliary water systems and booster pumps.

Cross Connections Can Create Health Hazards
from Washington State Department of Health
A 2-page brochure that explains what cross connections are, how contaminated water can flow backwards into a consumer's plumbing and the public water system, and where to get help to prevent backflow from occurring. It is intended for consumers and also mentions 12 common places that cross connections are found.

Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention
from National Environmental Services Center
This 4-page tech brief examines the problems associated with cross connections and backflow and provides practical solutions for controlling or eliminating them. Some of the common questions that are answered include: What is a cross connection? What is a backflow? What about terrorism and water security?

Commercial Cross-Connection Survey Form
from Nebraska Rural Water Association
This 2-page document is a survey conducted by utilities to assist customers in reporting potential backflow hazards and to comply with regulations. It is intended for consumers to fill out and return to their water providers. This form must be filled out every five years by consumers.

Further Reading
For additional technical support in developing your program, we recommend US EPA's Cross Connection Control Manual. This 50-page guidance manual contains information on cross connections, backflow prevention, system management and public health. It describes the health significance of cross-connections, how back flow events occur, how to prevent backflow and backsiphonage, how to test preventers, how to develop a cross-connection control program, and information on ordinances.

SmallWaterSupply.org's Document Search can help you find valuable references, resources and educational materials to make your job easier.