Customers
Backflow Prevention
Water distribution systems are designed with the intention of the water flowing in a certain direction - from the distribution system to the consumer. If a system is unprotected, it is possible for water to flow in the opposite direction, which is called backflow.
A cross-connection is any physical arrangement where a public water supply is directly connected either continuously or intermittently, with any secondary source of supply. The secondary water supply could be sewer, floor drain, pool, irrigation system, piping, storage reservoir, plumbing fixture, or other device which contains or may contain any water, contaminated liquid, or other water of unknown or unsafe quality.
A properly working cross-connection control device restricts water flowing from the customer's irrigation system into the public water supply. Without this device, contamination from the customer's irrigation system could enter the customer's service line and the water main, contaminating the public water supply.
Backsiphonage
Backsiphonage occurs when the water system pressure is reduced. A reduction of system pressure is caused by an interruption of normal water flow and can occur during main breaks or repairs, power outages and during demand periods.
An example of a reported backsiphonage incident occurred when most of the members and coaches of a college varsity football team became ill. The water supply on the practice field was found to be the cause. A drinking fountain and the irrigation system for the field were on the same line. A heavy fire demand in the area had created low pressure in the water main. When this happened, contaminated surface water around the sprinkler heads was siphoned into the potable water lines. Players and coaches drinking from the fountain became ill.
Backflow Installation Mandates
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) created Title 327 IAC 8-10, Indiana Register, Volume 11, Number 2, to regulate the backflow prevention program. The regulations have been in effect since July 19, 1985, and emanated from the "Safe Drinking Water Act" passed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). IDEM enforces the regulation by requiring utilities to monitor cross-connection control devices for compliance and to maintain test result records. Non-compliance to the state regulation is at the customer's risk.
Backflow Device Testing
Devices installed on irrigation systems must be tested annually when the system is activated for the sprinkling season.
Testers are certified by the state of Indiana after attending a 35-hour training class, passing a written examination and successfully completing tests on actual prevention devices. When you need to contact a tester, we suggest contacting your irrigation contractor first. Many of the contractors and their employees are certified testers. Another option is to check the Yellow Pages under Backflow Prevention, or click here for a list of certified testers. Indianapolis Water does not recommend or endorse any specific companies or individuals to do testing.
After you receive your test results, give the test results document to your tester. The tester can record the test results and mail or fax the completed form to Indianapolis Water. Keep a copy of your test results for your files.
If your device fails to meet passing standards or does not comply with state regulations, the tester should be able to correct the problem. If you have questions about backflow device testing, please contact Indianapolis Water so that we can allow you more time.
For More Information
Phone: 317.263.6324
FAX: 317.263.6351
P. O. Box 1220
Indianapolis, IN 46206-1220
