Backflow prevention is the term used to refer to the prevention of an unwanted reverse flow of water from a potentially polluted source into the drinking water supply.
Backflow occurs when a condition exists in a water supply system that will cause back-siphonage or back-pressure. Back-siphonage can occur on a property through a vacuum created in the water supply system.
An example of back-siphonage could be when a pipeline has a breakage. Back-pressure can occur within properties when high pressure is generated downstream by pumps, thermal expansion or elevation.
Backflow prevention starts within a property boundary by isolating a possible contamination source from the town mains or storage tanks (rainwater tanks).
A correctly selected and installed backflow prevention device (one way valve) will eliminate the risk of contamination of the drinking water supply. Backflow prevention devices are either testable or non-testable types, with the selection dependent on the risk associated with the possible contamination.
Council is required under legislation to maintain a program for the registration, maintenance and testing of testable backflow prevention devices.
Owners of an installed testable backflow prevention device must register the device with Council. For new work approved
by Council, registration will occur as part of the approval process. For testable backflow prevention devices added to an existing building, registration will occur once Council receives the appropriate notification from the licensed installer.
Owners of an installed testable backflow prevention device must have the device inspected or tested annually, by a person who is licensed to do the work. The licensed person who inspects or tests a testable backflow prevention device must give Council written results of the inspection or test within 10 business days. A lodgement fee is payable to Council at this time. Penalties may apply if the annual test certificate is not received as required.
