About CCC and BFP
What is a Cross Connection?
A Cross Connection is any actual or potential connection between a potable water system and any source of pollution or contamination. Bypass arrangements, jumper connections, removable sections, swivel or changeover devices, or any other temporary or permanent connecting arrangements through which backflow may occur are considered to be cross-connections.
What is Backflow?
Backflow is a flowing back or reversal of the normal direction of flow in a piping system. It occurs due to a differential pressure existing between two different points within a continuous fluid system; a fluid of higher pressure flowing to a fluid of lower pressure. Backflow may occur due to either backsiphonage or backpressure.
What is Backsiphonage?
Backsiphonage is caused by pressure below atmopheric in the supply system. Some common causes of backsiphonage are:
- High velocities in pipe lines.
- Line repair or break that is lower than a service point.
- Lowered main pressure due to high water withdrawal rate such as fire fighting or water main flushing.
- Reduced supply pressure on the suction side of the booster pump.
What is Backpressure?
Backpressure may cause backflow to occur whenever a potable water system is connected to a non-potable supply operating at a higher pressure. If these connections are not properly protected, potable and non-potable water or liquids can be forced into the potable water supply system. Some common causes of backpressure are:
- Booster pumps.
- Interconnections with another system operated at a higher pressure.
- Elevated piping (e.g. 30' above finished grade)