A cross connection is an improper and illegal plumbing arrangement between a potable and non-potable water supply. This connection, under certain hydraulic conditions, can lead to a dangerous “backflow” from a contaminated water system to drinking water.
The quality of Philadelphia’s drinking water supply could be compromised if backflow from a non-potable supply containing hazardous substances occurs. The City of Philadelphia has Cross Connection Control Regulations to protect the public health and the integrity of its drinking water supply.
Cross Connection Control Resources
Cross Connection Situations at Home
Bad habits in your home can create what plumbers call a “cross connection.” Cross connections can allow dirt, unsafe water and chemicals to get sucked into your drinking water. This is called “backflow,” and it can make you and your neighbors sick.
Cross Connection Control Manual
Updated 2017
City-Approved Backflow Prevention Assemblies
The Backflow Assemblies that are approved for use in the City of Philadelphia, have gone through the approval process carried out by the University of Southern California Foundation for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (USC FCCC&HR) and are contained in the list below.
Note: Only those assemblies having a rating of ≤0.25% Pb = “Y” (YES) are approved for use in the City of Philadelphia.
List of Approved Backflow Assemblies
City-Certified Backflow Prevention Technicians
- City-Certified Backflow Prevention Technician Resource Guide
- Technicians for Domestic Water Systems
- Technicians for Fire Sprinkler Systems
Note: The list of approved backflow assemblies is updated periodically. The lists of approved technicians are updated weekly.
Backflow Prevention Forms
- Form CU-100 – Facility Update on Backflow Prevention
- Form CP-100 – Backflow Prevention Assembly Installation Permit Application
- Form CR-100 – Certified Backflow Assembly Technician Registration Form
- Form 79-770 – Backflow Prevention Assembly Test and Maintenance Record