IA Backflow Prevention & Cross-Connection Control

Question 1

What is backflow in an irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

The reverse flow of water from a non-potable source into the potable water supply

Answer

Water flowing in the intended direction from supply to outlet

Answer

Water pressure buildup caused by a closed downstream valve

Answer

The forward flow of water through a check valve assembly

Question 2

Which two pressure conditions can cause backflow to occur?

Accepted Answer

Back-siphonage and back-pressure

Answer

High pressure and low flow

Answer

Corrosion and pipe failure

Answer

High flow velocity and low system pressure

Question 3

Which of the following represents a high-hazard cross-connection in an irrigation system?

Accepted Answer

A potable water supply connected to a system with fertilizer injection or recycled water

Answer

A garden hose connected to an outdoor residential spigot

Answer

An air gap at an atmospheric tank inlet

Answer

A pressure-reducing valve installed on the main supply line

Question 4

What is the definition of a cross-connection?

Accepted Answer

Any physical connection between a potable water supply and a non-potable source

Answer

A connection between two pipes of different diameters in the same system

Answer

A junction where two irrigation lateral lines meet at a tee fitting

Answer

A valve that connects the supply and return lines in a loop system

Question 5

Back-siphonage in an irrigation system is most likely to occur when:

Accepted Answer

A sudden high demand or break in the supply main creates negative pressure

Answer

System pressure is significantly higher than normal operating pressure

Answer

A check valve fails to close properly under forward flow

Answer

The irrigation system operates at peak design flow rate

Question 6

Which organization is the primary authority for backflow prevention standards and tester certification in the United States?

Accepted Answer

USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC-FCCC)

Answer

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Answer

American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA)

Answer

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

Question 7

What is the minimum air gap required by most plumbing codes to prevent backflow by siphonage?

Accepted Answer

Twice the supply pipe diameter or 1 inch, whichever is greater

Answer

Equal to the inside diameter of the supply pipe only

Answer

A fixed 6 inches regardless of pipe size

Answer

Half the diameter of the supply pipe, minimum 0.5 inch