BACKFLOW PREVENTION AND INSPECTION

To prevent contamination due to back pressure, some regulatory regimes require an air gap or mechanical backflow prevention assembly between the delivery point of mains water and local storage or use. Where submerged mains inflow is permitted a backflow prevention assembly is required, which protects the potable water system from contamination hazards. These hazards can be severe, some cases can be fatal. In many countries where regulations allow for the possibility of backflow, approved backflow prevention assemblies are required by law and must be installed in accordance with plumbing or building codes.

A typical backflow assembly has test cocks and shut-off valves and must be tested when installed, if relocated or repaired, and also each year.

In the Richmond, the EPA holds local water suppliers responsible for maintaining a certain amount of purity in potable water systems. Often, a check valve is a common form of backflow prevention. In most cases, the law requires a double check (DC), n Reduced Pressure Principle Device(RP) device or an air gap when backflow prevention is mandated.

The simplest, and most effective way to provide backflow prevention is to provide an air gap. An air gap is simply a space between any device that opens to a plumbing system (like a valve or faucet) and any place where water can collect or pool.