Backflow Prevention & Cross Connection Control
A cross-connection is any connection between a potable (drinking) water supply system and any source of non-potable or non-drinkable liquid, solid, or gas. Under certain circumstances of unequal pressure, a non-drinkable substance could either be pulled or pushed into the drinking water supply. This is called backflow.
Backflow can reverse the flow of water or other substances into the public or private water system, resulting in chemicals or contaminants getting into the drinking water. In other words, due to changes in pressure, the water can flow in the opposite direction from what is intended. This is why the installation, inspection and proper maintenance of backflow prevention assemblies and devices is imperative to the safety of your drinking water.
As a water purveyor, the City of Golden is committed to protecting the water distribution system that supplies the City’s drinking water. Compliance with testing of backflow prevention assemblies is an important step towards this protection. Therefore, you play an integral part of protecting the water distribution system. The City of Golden needs your assistance and values your cooperation in this endeavor.
To learn more about what backflow is, and how to avoid it, refer to the downloadable brochure Backflow — What it is and How to Prevent It (pdf) or watch the above video.
Backflow prevention assemblies must be tested by a Certified Cross Connection Control Technician. Refer to the downloadable brochure How to Select a Certified Backflow Tester (pdf). Please also refer to the brochure Testing Isolation Assemblies on Private Plumbing Systems (pdf).
Backflow Prevention Test Form
If you are a backflow prevention tester, you may download the test form below, then fill it out and return it via mail, fax, or email.
Contact Information:
Byron McElhinney
City of Golden
Cross-Connection Control Program Administrator
1445 10th Street
Golden, CO 80401
Fax: 303-384-8161
backflow@cityofgolden.net
Winterize Your Irrigation System
Learn how to winterize your irrigation system without damaging the backflow prevention assembly. Click on the backflow preventer in the following chart that looks most like your assembly, and read the linked PDF brochure for information on winterizing your irrigation system.
Backflow Preventers |
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Additional Resources
The organizations linked here do not have the endorsement of the City of Golden but are available here for your use and convenience.
- American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA)
- Colorado Backflow Prevention Association (CBPA)
- Backflow Prevention Education Council of Colorado (BPECC)
If you have any questions about the City’s CCC Program, please contact Byron McElhinney at (303) 384-8178 or by email at backflow@cityofgolden.net.
