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AL/MS AWWA Effective Backflow Prevention. August 26, 2013. Sam McElroy, PE Civil Services, LLC sammc@knology.net (256) 755-0050. Introduction. Years ago, water systems did not include any form of backflow prevention in system designs. - PowerPoint PPT Presentation
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AL/MS AWWA Effective Backflow Prevention
August 26, 2013
Sam McElroy, PECivil Services, LLCsammc@knology.net(256) 755-0050
Introduction
• Years ago, water systems did not include any form of backflow prevention in system designs.
• Today, systems are required by law to develop and implement a backflow prevention program which meets state’s requirements.
• We will look at basic policies for residential, commercial, irrigation and fireline backflow prevention.
• To help establish if the program is effective, we will consider the functionality, cost, and convenience of the system.
• We will also consider the acceptance of the program by the customers, the public and regulatory officials.
Cross Connection/Backflow Prevention - Definitions
• Cross Connection - Any physical connection or other arrangement through which unauthorized or potentially harmful materials can be introduced into drinking water.
• Backflow – a reversal of the normal direction of flow within a piping system.
• A backflow program should effectively protect a water system’s distribution lines from contamination or pollution from foreign substances which may compromise health.
• Check Valves -- typically do not have test ports. Are not considered true backflow preventers.
• Dual checks -- low hazard installations.
• Double Checks -- standard installations. Most common required.
• RPZ --- high hazard installations, chemicals, treatment plants, hospital.
Backflow Prevention - What is it?
Backflow Prevention - What is it?
Backflow Prevention Codes
• No single rule.
• Different states, city, counties have different requirements.
• Authority having jurisdictions may vary – water departments, fire departments, regulatory agencies, health department, inspection departments, etc.
Backflow Prevention
Alabama vs. Mississippi BFP Requirements
• Alabama State Law
• alabamaBFP.pdf
• Every connection shall have a BFP installed.
Alabama vs. Mississippi BFP Requirements
• mscrossconnection.pdf
• Mississippi State Law
• No low hazard installation shall be required to have a BFP.
Cost
• Installation Cost
• Maintenance Cost
• Eye Soar - Above ground installations, loss of land use
• Monitoring systems on some installations
Communication
• Does the public understand your BFP policy?
• How do you communicate your departmental requirements.
• How does the industry communicate BFP requirements?
• Marble Mountain Sprinkler Burn.mpg
Effective BFP Programs
• Many different programs and requirements exist for BFP requirements.
• Each system is required by law to develop and implement a backflow prevention program which meets minimum state’s requirements.
• Your program is most effective when you consider the functionality, cost, and convenience of the program.
• These aspects of the program should convey to customers the value of life safety though effective communications with customers and the public.
• Questions ???• Comments …
Sam McElroy, PECivil Services, LLCsammc@knology.net(256) 755-0050
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