What are cross-connections?

Cross-connections are actual and potential unprotected connections between a potable water system and any source or system containing unapproved water or a substance which is not safe.

Examples of Cross-connections

1. Improperly installed irrigation systems which may allow backsiphonage of stagnant, bacteriologically unsafe water into the domestic piping system.
2. Improperly plumbed water-using devices such as hot tubs, boilers or commercial dishwashers, which may allow unsafe water back into the domestic piping system.
3. Irrigation systems served by an auxiliary source, such as a private well or creek. Such systems create a potential for major contamination of the water system via inter-ties with the domestic piping system.
4. Interconnections between the potable system and a non-potable system.

Cross-connection Programs

Public Water Systems

Water provided by a public water system (community and noncommunity systems) or may be contaminated via cross-connections within the user’s distribution system. Section 7584 of Title 17, California Code of Regulations, requires that the water supplier protect the public water supply from contamination by eliminating actual cross-connections and reducing the hazard of potential cross-connections. Cross-connections can be eliminated either by installing appropriate backflow prevention assemblies or ensuring that water-using equipment is installed in accordance with plumbing code requirements and good practice.

State & Local Small Water Systems

Water provided by a state or local small water system may be contaminated via cross-connections within the user’s distribution system. Section 15.04.145 of the Monterey County Code incorporates the requirements of 7584 of Title 17, California Code of Regulations, which requires that the water supplier protect the water supply from contamination by eliminating actual cross-connections and reducing the hazard of potential cross-connections. Cross-connections can be eliminated either by installing appropriate backflow prevention assemblies or ensuring that water-using equipment is installed in accordance with plumbing code requirements and good practice.

Why are cross-connection programs necessary?

Why Cross-Connection Control Programs are necessary:

Cross connections involve several public health concerns:

1. Consumers assume water from the tap is safe to drink.
2. Contamination from cross connections can cause illness and death.
3. Cross connections can contaminate even the highest quality water.
4. Contamination may affect a single structure or may involve an entire community.

Cross Connection Control Program Development

Cross Connection Control Survey Forms

Backflow devices

• Approved Backflow Devices

Backflow Device Testers

• Backflow Prevention Device Testers

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