Backflow Prevention Devices WHAT IS BACKFLOW? Backflow is any unwanted flow of potentially contaminated water into the potable (drinking water) distribution system. This can occur when water flows backwards, or opposite to its normal and intended direction of flow, which can result when water pressure to a property is not maintained or if a pump is connected to a property’s water plumbing system. Backflow can occur when, for example: • the water delivery main (reticulation system) is at a lower pressure than a property’s plumbing system. This can occur when there is a burst in the supply main or during fire-fighting operations; • if a pump is connected to a property’s internal water plumbing system; a property is using water at a pressure higher than the pressure in a water main; • if a pump is connected to a non-potable supply and there is a town water top-up or interconnection. Many rainwater tank installations are fitted with a pressure pump on the delivery side of the tank; • high water usage downstream causes a pressure reduction upstream; • the water outlet on a property is significantly higher in elevation than the water utility’s main with a constant back pressure; or • if an alternate water supply (e.g. bore water) is connected to a property’s water supply system. WHAT IS A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE? A backflow prevention device prevents this reverse flow of water from a potentially polluted source into the regional drinking water supply system. You may have a backflow prevention device fitted on your property if you have any of the following: an irrigation system; fire hose reels or hydrants; a commercial or industrial activity or machinery connected to the mains; water outlets in proximity to pollutants, grease traps or chemicals; an underground rainwater tank that has mains water backup; or a black or greywater dump point. WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSTALLING A NEW DEVICE? The majority of new backflow prevention devices will require a plumbing application and an inspection by Council’s plumbing inspectors. Some devices may be installed under the notifiable work category. It is the responsibility of the licensed plumbing contractor to submit a Form 4 to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission and forward a copy of the completed Form 9 to Council. The Form 9 can be found on the Queensland Department of Housing and Public Works website at: http://www.hpw.qld.gov.au/aboutus/ReportsPublicatio ns/FormsTemplates/Pages/ApprovedPlumbersDrainers Forms.aspx WHAT IS COUNCIL’S BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE PROGRAM? Council has a responsibility under State Government legislation to maintain a program for the registration, maintenance and testing of testable backflow prevention devices installed in its area. The information supplied to Council from test reports is recorded in a register. Council charges an annual administration fee per device which is used to maintain the register and for any correspondence that may need to be sent to owners.