Cross Connection Control Program Development
Backflow Prevention Services, LLC assists clients in developing a backflow prevention program in accordance with Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals policy. The policy requires that all owners of water systems protect the system against actual or potential contamination. While various programs are available in "generic" format, BPS assists clients by developing programs that are specific to their individual water system. The program is comprehensive in nature and is a valuable tool to educate system personnel. The program document is essential to the overall success of implementing and managing a backflow prevention program.
The goal of any program should be the elimination and/or prevention of cross connections. A cross connection is any arrangement of pipes, fittings, fixtures, or devices that directly or indirectly connects a non-potable source with a potable water system. Objectives of the plan are:
- To prevent cross connections in all establishments,
- To install backflow preventers at the point of service to all facilities that represent a high health hazard,
- To predict where cross connections might be created.
Backflow Prevention Services, LLC supports clients by reviewing existing ordinances and developing a detailed written plan that includes ordinance preparation; establishing guidelines for backflow preventer installation, maintenance, and testing; tester requirements; and record keeping.
Cross Connection Control Program Implementation
Backflow Prevention Services, LLC assists clients with the implementation of their backflow prevention program. A review of the utility's current program to establish and verify compliance with state regulations is the initial step in the process. Upon completion of the program review, Backflow Prevention Services prepares a data base by filtering existing water system data and performing field surveys to determine which customers will require backflow prevention. Notification letters are prepared and distributed to customers requiring backflow prevention. In addition, follow-up notification and an approved backflow preventer tester list is generated. Program implementation requires that the utility work closely with Backflow Prevention Services, LLC in order to successfully begin the program in an effective and efficient manner. In many cases, implementation of the program is the first time customers will become aware of the program's existence.
Cross Connection Control Program Management
Backflow Prevention Services, LLC assists clients in managing their backflow prevention program. Basic services are centered on the record keeping aspect of the program and include managing test dates and reports, preparing notices to individual owners, follow-up correspondence for non-compliance, maintain records on tester certification, etc. Additional services offered include plan review of new construction to determine the type of backflow prevention required and general consulting services.
Program management is a key component of an effective backflow prevention program since proper records will be required when a sanitary survey is performed by the Louisiana Department of Health & Hospitals (DHH). Without proper records, a utility could be subject to penalties of $3,000 per day for findings during the DHH survey of utility systems. A worst case scenario may involve an administrative order.
While some utilities choose to perform these services "in house", many find it difficult to find personnel with an adequate working knowledge of the backflow prevention industry. As a result, management of the program becomes a burden on utility personnel from both a time and effectiveness perspective. Backflow Prevention Services, LLC has on staff a certified program manager in backflow prevention to assist clients in effectively managing their program. Our program manager has a thorough working knowledge of the industry and is familiar with all Louisiana state regulations.
The benefits of having Backflow Prevention Services, LLC perform program management services include:
- A thorough working knowledge of the industry,
- An organized approach to program management,
- Familiarity with current state regulations,
- A reduction in tasks for existing utility personnel, and
- Efficiency in data management, which results in lower overall cost.
Cross Connection Control Program Costs
The cost for program development, implementation, and management varies from client to client. Primary factors that affect the cost include the size of the water system, and the availability and quality of the water system records.
Financing options are available for qualified systems.