FAQ Category: Cross Connection Backflow

  • What happens if I do not test a backflow assembly that I have received a notification to test?

    If for some reason you do not test your backflow assembly, there are two options:

  • How often do backflow assemblies need to be tested?

    Backflow assemblies must be tested at the time of installation, annually (once a year), after repairs, and after relocating. When Sherwood customers test their backflow assemblies, a test report must be submitted through Ecosconnect by the backflow tester.

  • What is a backflow assembly?

    Backflow assemblies are devices placed on cross connections to prevent water from backflowing into the public water system. The most common type of backflow assembly is a double check valve assembly, which consists of two independent check valves, two resilient seated shut off valves and test cocks. To ensure they work correctly, all backflow assemblies…

  • What is the responsibility of a building owner, property manager and water supplier?

    Legally, the water supplier is responsible for water quality and for implementing and maintaining a cross connection control program to prevent pollution or contamination of the public water system. The water supplier’s responsibility ends at the outlet side (the customer’s side) of the water meter. Once the water is on the outlet side of the…

  • Do I currently have adequate backflow protection?  How can I find out?

    If your irrigation system, boiler, fire system, swimming pool, or spa was permitted through the building department, adequate backflow protection was required. If a fixture was installed without proper permits, or you are not sure if you have adequate backflow protection, please contact our Cross Connection Program at (503) 625-5722 and we will perform a…

  • What is the legal basis for a local cross connection control program?

    The federal Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) 42 U.S.C 300f to 300j-26 has jurisdiction over the public health aspects of the drinking water supply. The Oregon Health Division regulates public water systems in our state, including cross connection control, through Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs). One such rule is OAR 333-61-0070, which requires water districts to…

  • What is backflow? Why is backflow protection necessary?

    Drinking water normally flows in one direction (from the meter to the house), although under certain circumstances it can flow in the opposite direction, or “backflow.”  A backflow incident can happen at any time. All that is needed is a water pressure drop in the public water system main line, most commonly caused by fire…

  • What are some common examples of residential cross connections?

    Examples include residential fire systems, wells or auxiliary water systems, lawn irrigation systems, boilers, and swimming pools and hot tubs that are hard piped for filling purposes.

  • What is a cross connection?

     A cross connection is any connection between piping that carries drinking water (also known as potable) and the piping or fixtures that carry other types of water or substances that are not safe to drink (also known as non-potable). Substances include gases, liquids, or solids, such as chemicals, water products, steam, water from other sources…