A cross connection is any actual or potential physical connection between our drinking water and anything that could pollute or contaminate the water supply. For example, food and beverage processing equipment, without backflow preventers, has the potential for backflow to occur and contaminate the water supply.
Backflow
Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow of non-potable water or other contaminants through a cross connection and into the water distribution system. When the flow is reversed or “backflow” occurs, contaminated water can flow backward, drawing a contaminant into the water supply. There are two types of backflow – backpressure and backsiphonage.
Backflow is typically caused when an unforeseen change in water pressure allows the water to flow in reverse of the normal direction in the water distribution system, from a contaminated source to a drinking water supply. A drop in pressure could be caused by a variety of circumstances, including a water main break or the need to fight a fire.
To prevent backflow of contaminates, the City of Bellingham Water Utility follows all cross-connection requirements of the Washington State Department of Health. Installation of specific backflow protection assemblies and annual testing are required according to currently adopted Washington Administrative Code.
Possible cross-connection locations
Some places that can result in cross-connection issues include:
- Irrigation or lawn sprinkler equipment
- Food and beverage equipment
- Wash basins and service sinks
- Laboratory equipment
- Fire sprinkler systems
- Chemical feed equipment
- Boilers
More Information
For answers to specific cross-connection control questions, contact the Cross-Connection Control Specialists at the Operations Division of the Public Works Department.
