Backflow prevention

·  Prevents the reverse flow of water from a potentially polluted or contaminated source into drinking and bathing water supply systems.

·  Backflow prevention starts within a property boundary by isolating a possible contamination source from the town mains or storage tanks (rainwater tanks) to the tap or appliance.

·  This risk can be managed by installing a backflow prevention device.

·  There are a number of backflow prevention devices available to suit any particular situation.

Testing of backflow devices

·  Testable backflow prevention devices must be registered with Moreton Bay Regional council and tested at least once every 12 months.

·  Testing should only be carried out by a plumber who is endorsed to undertake such work.

Water supply on your property

·  All water supply systems intended for human consumption, food preparation, utensil washing or oral hygiene must be safeguarded from contact with contaminated water.

·  Applies to water services connected to rainwater tanks and council’s mains water supply.

·  A water supply should not be offensive in appearance, taste or odour.

Potential sources of contamination

·  Air conditioning towers / ·  Irrigation areas / ·  Fire hose reels / ·  Ornamental ponds
·  Swimming pools/spas / ·  Vehicle maintenance pits / ·  Dishwasher/glass washers / ·  Bidets/bain-maries
·  Vehicle washing bays / ·  Sullage pits/process tanks / ·  Chemical injection areas / ·  Dockside facilities/jetties
·  Boilers/steam pipes

Examples of properties required to comply with backflow prevention

·  Motels and unit complexes / ·  Catering and allied industries
·  Hotels / ·  Vehicle repair workshops
·  Shops and restaurants / ·  Caravan parks
·  Medical and dental surgeries including veterinary surgeries / ·  Car and plant washing facilities
·  Dry cleaners and laundries / ·  Hospitals and funeral parlours
·  Club houses for sports etc. / ·  Industrial installations
·  Schools, day care centres and kindergartens / ·  Abattoirs
·  Pest control and water carrying vehicles / ·  Chemical (storage) plants
·  Properties used for agricultural and horticultural purposes / ·  Marinas, shop yards and boat building properties
·  Zoos and local attractions / ·  Botanic gardens
·  Railway stations

Who makes the decision on how and where these backflow devices are to be installed?

Testing of backflow devices should only be carried out by a plumber who is endorsed to undertake such work.

Licensed plumbers are qualified to do this work when they are trained to observe the following Australian Standards.

·  Plumbing and Drainage Act 2002

·  AS/NZ 3500 national plumbing and drainage standard

·  AS/1319 signs/occupational environment

·  AS/1345 identification of the contents of pipes, conduits and ducts

·  AS/2845:3 water supply-backflow

·  AS/3855 prohibited materials

·  AS/4360 HB143, risk assessment

·  Standard Plumbing and Drainage Regulations 2003

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