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Cross-Connection Control Program - FAQs

What is a cross-connection control program and why does Georgetown Divide Public Utility District have a cross-connection control program?

Cross-connection control program is to ensure the protection of drinking water from backflow conditions via a cross-connection throughout the entire distribution system.  The program was established in accordance with the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1986 and with the State of California Health and Safety Code, Chapter 5 and Titles 17 and 22 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR).  District ordinance No. 91-5 Establishing Control of Cross-Connections can be found at the following link.

https://www.gd‑pud.org/files/fc10ad0e3/Ordinance%252091‑05%2520Cross%2520Connection%2520Control%2520Program.pdf

What is a cross-connection?

A cross-connection is an actual or potential connection between a public or consumer’s drinking water system and a non-potable (non-drinkable) source of water or other fluid through which, or because of which, backflow may occur into the potable water system.

What is backflow?

The reverse flow of water or other liquids, gases, mixtures or substances into the distribution pipes of the potable water supply system from any source or sources other than its intended source.

How does a backflow occur?

Backflow into the public water distribution system can occur when the water pressure in the consumer’s premises is higher than the pressure in the water distribution system.  This condition can be caused by a drop-in water pressure in the distribution system (e.g. firefighting operations or break in water main).

What properties are required to have a backflow prevention assembly?

Properties identified to have any water supply on or available to the premises other than the District’s approved public potable water supply.  Auxiliary water supply may include water from another purveyor’s public potable water supply or any natural source(s) such as a well, spring, river, stream, irrigation canals or systems, etc., or “used waters” or “industrial fluids.”

What is a backflow prevention assembly?

A backflow prevention assembly is a mechanical device that prevents water from flowing backwards.  Backflow prevention assemblies include; reduced pressure principle (RP), double-check valve (DC), double-check detector (DCDA), reduced pressure principle detector (RPDA) and pressure vacuum breaker.  Non-testable devices that prevent backflow include; air gaps and atmosphere vacuum breaks.  A list of reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assemblies that have been approved by the Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research a division of the USC can be found at https://fccchr.usc.edu/_downloads/List/list.pdf.

How often must a backflow prevention assembly be tested?

Backflow prevention assembly are required to be tested annually by a certified backflow specialist.  A contractors list is provided on the District’s website at the following link…..

Who is responsible for test of backflow prevention assembly?

It is the responsibility of the customer to have the backflow prevention assembly certified and notify the District.  The District will send notification letters at the time of annual certification.

Resources

District Ordinance 91-5 –

https://www.gd‑pud.org/files/fc10ad0e3/Ordinance%252091‑05%2520Cross%2520Connection%2520Control%2520Program.pdf

Contractors list –

Contractors List

Approved backflow prevention assemblies –

https://fccchr.usc.edu/_downloads/List/list.pdf.

If you have any questions, please contact the District’s Water Resources Manager, Adam Brown at (530) 333-4356 ext. 110.