Cross-connections occur in plumbing systems when there is an actual or potential connection between a potable drinking water pipe and a non-potable source. Some common examples of cross-connections include garden hoses that are used to fill a swimming pool, submerged sprinkler heads, or when potable water is used in industrial processes.
If negative pressure occurs in the potable water pipe while it's in use, there is potential for contaminants from the non-potable connection to be pulled into the potable water supply. This is called a backflow event. Backflow events can be prevented by installing a backflow prevention assembly. These assemblies can be as simple as an air gap or a hose bib vacuum breaker. More advanced backflow prevention devices are required for industrial and commercial operations.
About LWSD's Cross-Conection Control Program
Since the mid 1980's the State of Colorado through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has mandated that each water district in Colorado must implement a cross-connection control program (CCCP) on the potable water system. Starting in 2020, water districts must also enforce compliance and report back to CDPHE.
Effective January 1, 2025, Lakehurst Water & Sanitation District will be performing all backflow prevention and cross-connection control surveys and enforcement that Denver Water has been performing on behalf of our customers.
The purpose of the Lakehurst Water & Sanitation District's CCCP is:
• To protect the public water system from the possibility of contamination or pollution by cross-connections.
• To eliminate and/or control actual or potential cross-connections.
• To provide a continuing program of cross-connection control and backflow prevention that will effectively prevent the contamination or pollution of the public water system by cross- connection.
All commercial, industrial, domestic, irrigation, and fire line services are required to have an approved backflow prevention assembly installed. Requirements for multi- and single-family residences are assessed based on site hazards. All customers with an auxiliary water supply, such as a well or a pond or residential fire suppression system, are also required to install and maintain backflow prevention assemblies.