Backflow Prevention & Cross-Connection Control Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Backflow Prevention & Cross-Connection Control flashcards as text
What is backflow in an irrigation system?
Answer: The reverse flow of water from a non-potable source into the potable water supply
Backflow is the unwanted reversal of water flow that can allow contaminants from a non-potable source to enter the clean potable water supply.
Which two pressure conditions can cause backflow to occur?
Answer: Back-siphonage and back-pressure
Backflow is caused by back-siphonage (negative/reduced supply pressure creating a siphon) or back-pressure (downstream pressure exceeding supply pressure).
Which of the following represents a high-hazard cross-connection in an irrigation system?
Answer: A potable water supply connected to a system with fertilizer injection or recycled water
Connecting potable water to systems with chemical injectors or recycled water creates a high-hazard cross-connection due to the serious health risk of contamination.
What is the definition of a cross-connection?
Answer: Any physical connection between a potable water supply and a non-potable source
A cross-connection is any physical link between a potable water system and any source that could introduce contaminants into the drinking water supply.
Back-siphonage in an irrigation system is most likely to occur when:
Answer: A sudden high demand or break in the supply main creates negative pressure
Back-siphonage occurs when negative pressure in the supply line draws water backward, commonly caused by high upstream demand, a main break, or firefighting activities.
Which organization is the primary authority for backflow prevention standards and tester certification in the United States?
Answer: USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCC)
The USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research is widely recognized as the primary authority for backflow prevention standards, device approval, and tester certification programs in the U.S.
What is the minimum air gap required by most plumbing codes to prevent backflow by siphonage?
Answer: Twice the supply pipe diameter or 1 inch, whichever is greater
An air gap must be at least twice the inside diameter of the supply pipe or 1 inch minimum, whichever is greater, to reliably prevent back-siphonage.
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