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Backflow Prevention
Back-flow Prevention and Cross Control Program (BPCCC)
The Pueblo West Metropolitan District’s (PWMD) Utilities Department, is dedicated to the protection of its public drinking water supply. Per the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), the District’s Utility Department has established a Written BPCCC Program. Properly working backflow prevention assemblies keep our drinking water clean and safe.
The installation and annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies is a state requirement to help protect water quality and public health. State Regulation 11.39 requires PWMD to maintain a BPCCC Program to track the inspection, installation and annual testing of backflow prevention assemblies on all hazardous cross-connection (potential points of contamination and backflow).
These regulations apply to all Commercial or Industrial water system connections where an uncontrolled cross-connection has been identified. Site surveys may also be necessary to assess the potential hazards on your property.
Read Resolution 2019-071 from the Pueblo West Metro Board of Directors adopting a written backflow and cross-connection control system for Pueblo West Metro District.
- What is a Backflow Prevention Device and why is it important?
- What is Backflow?
- As a Commercial or Industrial Customer in the PWMD service area, what am I required to do?
- What is an Approved Backflow Prevention Assembly?
- What type of backflow assembly do I need?
- Who should install and test a backflow assembly?
A backflow prevention device protects the potable water system from contamination hazards. To prevent a backflow occurrence, it is required there be a mechanical backflow prevention device between the delivery point of mains and commercial or industrial businesses who are connected to the main water infrastructure systems. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) holds local water suppliers responsible for maintaining a certain amount of purity in potable water systems.
Backflow is the reverse flow of water or other substances through a cross-connection pipe which flows back into the treated water distribution system. There are two types of backflow: Backpressure and Back-Siphonage:
a) Backpressure: Backflow that occurs when the pressure in an unprotected downstream piping system exceeds the pressure in the supply piping.
b) Back-Siphonage: Resulting from negative pressure (vacuum or partial vacuum) in the water distribution system.
State regulations require All commercial and industrial customers to have a backflow prevention assembly on all services to contain any potential hazard from reaching the water main if a backflow event occurs. As a commercial or industrial customer, you are required to install, maintain, and test the appropriate State-Approved Backflow Prevention Assembly. Your backflow should be tested by a registered Certified Backflow Tester and all results should be sent to the Program Coordinator by the tester.
All backflow prevention assemblies must be both State approved and provide the appropriate protection for the degree of hazard present. They must be able to be tested for operational purposes and monitoring.
The type of backflow device necessary depends on the degree of hazard present at your location; taking into account how water is used at your location and any conditions that might allow contaminants to enter the main water infrastructure system. All backflow assemblies must be testable to meet criteria for installation on waterlines. The three (3) main types of testable backflow prevention assemblies are:
The PWMD Utility Department recommends that you have someone who is qualified for installation and certified for testing backflow devices.
- Where is the backflow assembly required to be installed?
- Will my water service be interrupted during the test?
- How much does a backflow cost?
- Who is responsible for paying for the device and testing?
- What happens if I do not comply?
- Once my device is tested, who mails/emails my completed test form each year?
The backflow assembly must be installed on the customer's service line after the meter set and before any branching of the line to accommodate any additional taps, faucets or hose connections. There also must be a 12" clearance area around the entire device.
Yes, the water supply to the backflow preventer must be turned off during the testing procedure. The type and location of the device will determine how long the test will take. Typically 10-30 minutes are needed to complete testing. Additional time may be needed to make additional repairs or adjustments.
The cost of a backflow device varies based on the size, type and location. The PWMD Utility Department recommends that you obtain several quotes before purchasing a backflow device due to varied costs.
It is the customer's responsibility to ensure that any contaminants or pollutants do not enter the water distribution system from their location. All costs related to the installation, maintenance and testing of backflow prevention assemblies are the customer’s responsibility.
Non-compliance with the District’s BPCCC will result in disconnection from the water service to the District's water distribution system. This will result in a non-compliance fee added to the water billing account.
The Certified Backflow Technician or Company should complete a form and submit it to the Program Coordinator at the District’s Utilities Department using the information below:
Email: kkallenbach@pwmd-co.us
Mailing Address:
PWMD Utilities Department
Attn: Program Coordinator
20 W. Palmer Lake Dr.
Pueblo West, CO 81007