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1. Is backflow prevention device testing regulated?

Yes, the State of Michigan Department of Public Health, Administrative Rules for Michigan's Safe Drinking Water Act, Act 399, P.A. 1976 Michigan Plumbing Code 2000, requires water utilities to have comprehensive cross connection control programs for the elimination and prevention of all cross connections. The City of Sterling Heights is required to report to the State of Michigan annually on the status of testing and inspection of the businesses that we serve.

2. Why is it important for water suppliers to prevent backflow?

Backflow into a public water system can contaminate the potable water in that system making the water unfit for consumption. Water suppliers have the responsibility to provide water that is safe for use at all times.

3. What is backsiphonage?

Backsiphonage is a condition created by a loss of pressure in the water distribution system. Water main breaks and firefighting are 2 examples where if the pressure lost is significant, water flow can potentially reverse. This pressure loss can create a suction effect, possibly leading to contaminated water being drawn into the public water system.

4. Can you give an example of a cross connection occurrence?

In Virginia in October 1979, the highly toxic insecticide chlordane entered the water system due to backsiphonage. An extermination company employee left 1 end of a garden hose in a barrel of diluted insecticide and the other connected to an outside spigot. While the water supply system pressure dropped due to repair work, backsiphonage created by the loss of pressure caused the chlordane to be sucked back into the water supply.

5. After receiving a letter, what do I do?

If you receive a letter stating that your cross connection devices are due for testing, you will need to hire a plumber that is Michigan state-certified in cross connections. If part of your system does not pass inspection, you will need to arrange to have the necessary corrections made. Once this is complete, please contact the Water Department at 586-446-2440 to schedule an inspection.

6. Who owns and is responsible for testing and maintenance of the backflow prevention assembly?

Customers are required to maintain their water systems in a manner free of cross connections. If a backflow incident occurs resulting in contamination of the public water supply, the responsible owner or occupant could be held liable for damages.

7. How much will it cost to have my backflow prevention device tested?

It is suggested that more than 1 plumber be contacted in order to get a competitive bid. The customer is responsible for hiring a certified backflow prevention technician to test the backflow prevention assembly. Plumbing contractors who are certified backflow prevention technicians can be found in the business section of the white pages.

8. Is there a general compliance schedule and process?

The backflow prevention assembly must be in compliance with the City’s testing requirements by the date shown on the notification letter. You will receive a follow-up notice after 30 days. A final notice will follow after 60 days.

9. What if I don't comply?

If a customer refuses to cooperate, and does not have the device(s) installed and/or tested, the water service may be terminated until compliance is achieved. Additional costs may be incurred at this point.