Backflow Prevention/Cross-Connection Control Program
All backflow protection assemblies must be tested upon installation, repair or relocation. Backflow prevention assemblies are mechanical devices that degrade over time. All Backflow assemblies should be tested annually to ensure they are in working order to protect the City's potable water and meet TCEQ standards.
Note: Backflow Prevention Assemblies, on fire protection sprinkler systems, are required by the State Fire Marshal to be tested and/or repaired by a BPAT who is a full‐time employee of a Fire Protection Sprinkler Company that is licensed with the State Fire Marshal's Office.
Information for Backflow Assembly Testers
BPAT Testers must register and submit backflow testing reports by visiting www.sctrackingsolutions.com.
Please contact SC Tracking Solutions directly if you require any assistance
SC Tracking Solutions Customer Service Line: 866-232-0174
SC Tracking Solutions Fax: 866-410-1093
SC Tracking Solutions Email: cs [at] sctrackingsolutions.com (cs[at]sctrackingsolutions[dot]com)
What is Backflow?
Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow in a potable water distribution system. Water that is always under pressure can only flow in one direction. Then how can water flow in reverse? Water will always flow towards the point of lowest pressure. If a water main were to break or if the fire department opened several fire hydrants to help fight a fire, the pressure in the water main could drop. The demand upstream could cause a reversal in flow. Cross connections and the possibility of backflow need to be recognized so they do not occur. A garden hose submerged in a hot tub, swimming pool, car radiator or attached to an insect/fertilizer sprayer could siphon the liquid back into the water main. Water from an irrigation system could be siphoned back into the public water supply. Backflow prevention assemblies are designed to protect the public water system from these types of concerns.
What is a Cross-Connection?
A cross connection is a connection between a potable drinking water supply and a possible source of contamination or pollution. Under the provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act of 1971, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established national standards for safe drinking water. Each state is required to enforce the various regulations of the Safe Drinking Water Act and how it relates to its state laws. To meet these provisions, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) on January 1, 1996, enacted a state law which requires the public water suppliers to implement and enforce the Cross-Connection Control Program requirements located in the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Title 30, Chapter 290 of the Rules and Regulations for Public Water Suppliers.