Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention
A cross-connection is any point where a non-potable source could enter a drinking water system. Cross-connection control means identifying those pathways and protecting against them.
Why it matters
The drinking water, not the device
A cross-connection is a pathway into a potable system. The reason for controlling it is what sits on the other side of that pathway, and what would happen if it reached the tap.
The whole water system, not one assembly
We look at how a property's water system is actually put together, what is connected to it and where, rather than at a single assembly in isolation.
Requirements are set locally
There is no single provincial rule. Requirements come from municipal and water-purveyor bylaws, so what applies depends on the community a property sits in. Cross connection control programs are administered by the water purveyor; we work within those requirements, we do not set or enforce them.
What we provide
- Backflow assembly testing by a BCWWA-certified tester, including the testing most municipal programs require on installation, after repair, and annually
- Engineering assessment of water systems to identify cross-connection hazards
- Design and specification of appropriate backflow protection
- Sealed engineering documentation where a project requires it
- Coordination with owners, contractors and the local water purveyor
Properties where it commonly applies
Whether any of these needs cross-connection control depends on the water system, the hazard, and the requirements of the local water purveyor.
- Commercial properties
- Institutional properties
- Industrial properties
- Multi-unit residential and strata properties
- Irrigation systems
- Fire protection systems
- Properties with non-potable or process water
Our approach
Understand the system
How the property takes water, what it feeds, and which parts of it are not potable.
Identify hazards
Where a non-potable source could reach the drinking water supply, and what is on the other side of each of those points.
Determine appropriate protection
What protection suits each hazard, the water system it sits in, and the requirements that apply in that community.
Coordinate implementation
Working with the owner, the contractor and the local water purveyor so that what is specified is what gets built.
Test and document
Testing the assemblies and issuing a written record of what was assessed, what was specified, and what the testing found.
Common questions
What is a cross-connection?
Any point where a non-potable source could enter a drinking water system. Cross-connection control means identifying those pathways and protecting against them.
What is backflow?
Backflow occurs when fluids begin travelling in the opposite direction from their design flow. Once potable water has entered the boundary into a home or business, the water purveyor must ensure that backflow cannot occur back into the water system. A cross-connection risk exists where a backflow scenario could transport non-potable water back into the drinking water supply.
Does every property need a backflow prevention device?
No. Whether one is required depends on the water system, the hazard, and the requirements of the local water purveyor. Requirements vary from one municipality to the next, and the local water purveyor is the authority on what applies to a given property.
Who sets the requirements in BC?
Municipal and water-purveyor bylaws, rather than a single provincial rule, which is why requirements vary by community. Cross connection control programs are administered by the water purveyor, who is the authority on what a property requires. We work within those requirements; we are not a regulator and do not set or enforce them.
How often do backflow assemblies need testing?
Where a community operates a cross connection control program, testable backflow assemblies are generally tested on installation, after repair, and at least annually. The exact requirement is set by the local water purveyor and varies by municipality, so the program that covers your property is what governs.
Discuss your project
Tell us about the property and its water system, and we will tell you what is involved.