Backflow Prevention & Cross-Connection Control

Erie Water Works Cross Connection Control Program

The Erie Water Works Cross-Connection Control Program is dedicated to protecting the public water system through the elimination of cross-connections. Cross-connections lead to potential for backflow. Backflow is the undesirable reversal of normal flow of water in any pipeline or plumbing system. Backflow is dangerous because it can result in drinking water becoming contaminated, unsafe, and unusable.

The Erie Water Works Cross-Connection Control Program was established in 1974 as mandated by the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). The SDWA is a federal law that ensures the quality of American’s drinking water. Under the SDWA, the Environmental Protection Agency sets standards for drinking water quality, and oversees the states, localities, and water suppliers who implement those standards.

Any facility that has the potential for cross-connections requires a backflow preventer. The type of backflow preventer is determined by the potential Degree of Hazard. Degree of Hazard is determined by Erie Water Works (EWW). EWW’s Cross-Connection Control Program currently tracks over 7,000 backflow preventers installed within residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities such as manufacturing companies, offices, retail facilities, educational and government buildings, and facilities with lawn irrigation systems.

For any questions or concerns regarding backflow prevention please get in touch with our Cross Connection Control Supervisor today

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