Cross Connection And Backflow Prevention

A dental office may be required by a local community water system to install a backflow prevention device.  Water can flow backwards in a system in certain situations, such as a break in the water main.  Cross connection control programs and backflow prevention devices prevent potential hazards from contaminating the drinking water supply.

Should you be contacted by your local community water system regarding backflow prevention, be aware of the following:

• The water supplier is required to evaluate the degree of potential hazard to the drinking water supply which may be created as a result of actual or potential cross connections on the water user’s premises.  If not provided initially, ask the water supplier for a description of the potential hazards posed by cross connections in your dental office.
• The construction and location of backflow prevention devices must meet specified standards.  Backflow prevention devices must be tested on a regular basis, and repaired or replaced as needed.
• The water supplier may pass on to the water user the actual cost of installation and testing of the backflow prevention devices.

Resources

Centers for Disease Control, Backflow Prevention and the Dental Operative Unit, www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/infectioncontrol/factsheets/backflow.htm
American Dental Association Statement on Backflow Prevention and the Dental Office, www.ada.org/prof/resources/positions/statements/backflow.asp
California Health and Safety Code Sections 116800 – 116820, www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/displaycode?section=hsc&group=116001-117000&file=116800-116820
California Code of Regulations Title 17, Sections 7583-7586, 7601-7605

 

Posted August 2007