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Backflow Prevention

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1. What is backflow?

Drinking water distribution systems are designed with the intention of the water flowing in one direction, from the distribution system to the many various points of use. Backflow is the undesirable reversal of flow in a potable water distribution system through a cross-connection. A cross-connection is an actual or potential link connecting a source of pollution or contamination with a potable water supply. Backflow may allow liquids, gases, non-potable water and other substances, from any source, to enter a public water system.

2. How does backflow occur?

Backflow may occur due to high pressure on the customer side, or low pressure in the water system. Backflow through a cross-connection can contaminate the potable water in a building, on a block, or throughout an entire water system.

3. What is backflow prevention?

Backflow prevention protects public water systems from contamination or damage through cross-connections located in customer facilities. Backflow prevention is typically achieved by placing a backflow prevention assembly between the customer and the public water system. This is called containment backflow prevention.

4. Who is Required to Have a Backflow Device?

In accordance with Federal and State regulations, the City developed a Backflow Prevention Ordinance (see the City of Liberty’s code, Ch. 29 Water and Sewers; Article 3: Water. The purpose of the ordinance is to protect the public potable water supply from possible contamination by backflow through cross-connections. All water customers with known or potential cross connections are required to install a backflow prevention assembly and have it tested annually.

An approved backflow prevention assembly shall be installed where actual or potential hazards to the public potable water system exist. The type and degree of protection required shall be commensurate with the degree of hazard. (More information on the types of hazards and backflow prevention assemblies is available in the City of Liberty Code Ch. 29 Water and Sewers; Article 3: Water, Division 2 – Cross Connection Control).
City Code...

5. Must I have my backflow prevention assembly inspected annually?

In accordance with Federal and State laws, the City requires each backflow prevention assembly to be tested annually. To ensure the device is functioning properly, a certified tester must test it at least annually.

For new facilities, the assembly must be tested when installed.

Letters are sent annually reminding citizens/businesses of their test date. It is then up to the backflow device owner to contact a licensed and certified backflow assembly tester.
If the tester finds the assembly is not working, you must arrange to have it repaired and tested again. It is your responsibility to pay for the test and repairs. The tester is required to provide a copy of the test report to you and the water supplier. To obtain a list of certified testers in your area, call the Missouri Department of Natural Resources or visit their Backflow Prevention webpage (http://dnr.mo.gov/env/wpp/backflow/).

According to City ordinance (in accordance with state regulations), if an owner does not perform the testing annually, it is the Water Utilities right to terminate water service in order to protect the public water system. The backflow assembly test report can be mailed to the Utiltities Department, Attn: Backflow Prevntion, 101 E. Kansas, Liberty, MO 64068, or faxed to 816.439.4513