Cross-Connection Control

Plumbing cross-connections, which are defined as actual or potential connections between a potable and non-potable water supply, constitute a serious public health hazard. There are numerous, well-documented cases where cross-connections have been responsible for contamination of drinking water, and have resulted in the spread of disease. The problem is a dynamic one, because piping systems are continually being installed, altered, or extended.

Control of cross-connections is possible, but only through thorough knowledge and vigilance. Education is essential, for even those who are experienced in piping installations fail to recognize cross-connection possibilities and dangers. All municipalities with public water supply systems should have cross-connection control programs. Those responsible for institutional or private water supplies should also be familiar with the dangers of cross-connections and should exercise careful surveillance of their systems.

Cross-Connection Control: A Best Practices Guide (PDF) (4 pp, 177K)
EPA 816-F-06-035, September 2006
Tips for detecting and responding effectively to a backflow event and information on helpful technology.

Cross-Connection Control Manual

Cross-Connection Control Manual EPA 816-R-03-002
February 2003
(ALL ABOUT PDF FILES)

Download Entire Manual (1.52 M PDF FILE)

This document is also broken up into several PDFs for your convience. Below are links to the chapters themselves.

Cover & Table of Contents
Chapter 1 - Purpose & Scope
Chapter 2 - Public Health Significance of Cross-Connections
Chapter 3 - Theory of Backflow and Backsiphonage
Chapter 4 - Methods and Devices for the Prevention of Backflow and Backsiphonage
Chapter 5 - Testing Procedures for Backflow Preventers
Chapter 6 - Administration of a Cross-Connection Control Program
Chapter 7 - Cross-Connection Control Ordinance Provisions
Appendices

Cross-Connection Control

Cross-Connection Control Manual

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