What is a Cross Connection?
A cross connection is formed at any point where a drinking water line connects to equipment, a system containing chemicals, or water of questionable quality, and backflow may occur into the drinking water line.
Commercial and Industrial Properties
If you are an owner of industrial, institutional or commercial property, you must have your facility’s internal plumbing surveyed for cross connection hazards and install proper backflow devices or eliminate cross connections entirely.
Residential Properties
In residences, a common cross connection hazard is the ordinary garden hose attached to a container with garden chemicals. The garden hose can be easily connected to the potable water supply (faucets of household plumbing) and used for a variety of potentially dangerous applications. Another example is the garden hose connected to a water tap with the end of the hose inserted into a pool or other external source.
Cross Connection Control Program
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection requires all public water suppliers, like the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission, to maintain an ongoing Cross Connection Control Program (CCCP) that involves public education, outreach and onsite inspections.
For More Information
Contact the Commission’s Cross Connection Control Program at 413-310-3450.