Responsibilities in Cross-Connection Control
Programs
Overview of Cross-Connection Control
Definition and Importance
• Cross-connections are points in a plumbing system where
potable water can be contaminated by non-potable
sources.
• Effective cross-connection control is crucial for maintaining
public health and ensuring safe drinking water.
• Contamination can lead to serious health hazards,
including waterborne diseases.
• Regulatory frameworks exist to guide the implementation
of cross-connection control measures.
Key Regulatory Agencies
• The Health Agency is responsible for enforcing laws and
policies related to water safety.
• Local plumbing and building officials play a critical role in
enforcing cross-connection control regulations.
• The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical
Officials (IAPMO) and the International Code Council (ICC)
provide guidelines for plumbing codes.
, 2|Page
• State and local health agencies may have additional
authority to regulate cross-connection control.
Responsibilities of Key Stakeholders
Health Agency Responsibilities
• The Health Agency must ensure that public water systems
are free from contamination and potential sanitary
hazards.
• It is responsible for promulgating and enforcing cross-
connection control programs.
• The agency requires water suppliers to implement
approved backflow prevention measures at service
connections.
• Regular inspections and compliance checks are necessary
to maintain water quality standards.
Water Supplier Responsibilities
• Water suppliers must maintain compliance with federal
and state drinking water standards.
• They are required to have a cross-connection control
program in place to prevent contamination.
• The supplier must assess the degree of hazard and require
backflow prevention assemblies where necessary.