As we celebrate AWWA Drinking Water Week, HydroCorp proudly acknowledges the dedicated efforts of professionals in the public water works industry who tirelessly ensure the safety and purity of our drinking water. This year, we’re shining a spotlight on the vital work of cross-connection control programs, essential safeguards that protect our water supply from contamination.
Cross-connection control programs are multifaceted initiatives aimed at identifying and mitigating potential threats to water quality resulting from backflow and unprotected cross-connections. These AWWA recommended programs (and mandated by most State-to-State Regulations) encompass a range of activities, each crucial in maintaining the integrity of our water systems and are outlined in the AWWA M14 Manual for Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control. Let’s take a closer look at a typical year in the life of a cross-connection control program, focusing on five key elements, each corresponding to a day of the week.
Monday: Cross-Connection Control Program Plan Adoption
The foundation of any effective program lies in its plan. Mondays are dedicated to reviewing, updating, and adopting comprehensive cross-connection control program plans. Drawing from AWWA Manual M14’s wealth of resources, water systems reference best practices to ensure their plans align with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Tuesday: Public Awareness + Notification
Education is paramount in safeguarding our water supply. On Tuesdays, efforts are concentrated on raising public awareness about cross-connections and the importance of backflow prevention. From informative campaigns to targeted notifications, engaging with the community fosters a shared responsibility for water safety.
Wednesday: Facility Owner Participation, Inspections, Backflow Preventer Test Data
Wednesdays are all about collaboration. Facility owners play a crucial role in maintaining backflow preventers and facilitating inspections. Water systems work hand in hand with property owners to ensure compliance and collect essential test data, vital for assessing the effectiveness of backflow prevention measures.
Thursday: Compliance Monitoring + Enforcement
With regulations in place, Thursdays focus on monitoring compliance and enforcing standards. Regular audits and inspections ensure that backflow prevention devices are installed correctly and functioning as intended. Enforcement actions are taken when necessary to address non-compliance and safeguard water quality.
Friday: Assessment of Program, Repeat Cycles where applicable
As the week draws to a close, Fridays provide an opportunity for reflection and assessment. Water systems evaluate the effectiveness of their cross-connection control programs, identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes as needed. This cyclical approach ensures that programs remain dynamic and responsive to evolving challenges.
As we navigate through each day of the week, it becomes evident that cross-connection control programs are not just about managing risks; they’re about safeguarding our most precious resource—our water. By adhering to the principles outlined in AWWA M14 Manual and embracing a proactive approach, we can ensure that every drop that flows from our taps is safe, clean, and reliable.
This AWWA Drinking Water Week, let’s celebrate the dedication and expertise of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to protect our water supply. Together, we can continue to uphold the highest standards of water quality and ensure a healthier, safer future for all.
Not quite ready to purchase the AWWA M14 Manual? Get the HydroCorp Cross-Connection Essentials Guide for some Free and Proven Program Practices utilized in over 450 public water system cross-connection control programs!
