Cross Connection Control / Backflow

Cross
Connection
Backflow
Prevention
Registered
Testers

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.

Testing of backflow prevention assemblies

All backflow protection assemblies must be tested upon installation, repair or relocation. Because backflow prevention assemblies are mechanical devices that will degrade over time, all backflow assemblies must be tested annually to ensure they are in working order.

Si Environmental has chosen to partner with Vepo, LLC to allow for the online submission of Backflow Prevention Assembly Test and Maintenance Reports. All testing information will be entered directly by the tester into the online password protected system provided by Vepo, LLC. Testers will no longer be able to submit paper test reports directly to the water operator.

Finding or becoming a registered tester

All Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers (BAPTs) are required to register with Vepo, LLC. Upon registration and verification of license, insurance, and test gauge accuracy, the tester will be added to the approved list of Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers.

Note: Backflow prevention assemblies on fire protection sprinkler systems are required by the State Fire Marshall 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 Marshall’s Office. Click a link below to find a registered BPAT in the selected MUD.

Click here to download a Quick Start Guide with information on how to become a registered BPAT.

Cross Connection Control / Backflow