Backflow is a term used in plumbing that refers to the unwanted flow of water in the opposite direction. As a result, water supplies can be contaminated which can pose a serious health risk to residents. Luckily, there are devices that are installed in a plumbing system for backflow prevention.
If you want to know more about backflow laws and legislations in Australia, then you’ll find the information you need in today’s article. Find out which device is used to prevent backflow and how the professionals can help you with your plumbing projects.
What Causes a Backflow?
Backflow is caused by cross-connections in piping that can allow drinking water to become contaminated. This can occur when the pressure in a water trough is lower than the system’s pressure. As a result, it pulls contaminants into the drinking water system.
Why is Backflow Dangerous?
Drinking contaminated water is detrimental to your health. Sometimes the contaminated water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses such as vomiting and severe abdominal cramps. This is even a major liability to companies.
Some think that installing a water filter on taps is enough to rid water of contaminants. However, these filter systems are not enough to completely eliminate water impurities.
The Importance of a Backflow Device
A backflow valve is installed in water systems to prevent your water from getting contaminated by to backflow. This works by ensuring water flows in only one direction, so used and dirty water will never flow back. There are different types of backflow prevention devices such as:
- Single check
- Reduced pressure zone
- Dual check
- Double check
The type of device that’s installed will depend on the level of risk – your mechanical plumber will be able to assist you figuring out which one you require. For example, companies that produce contaminated water due to their release of waste into water systems will require more complex backflow devices.
It’s important to have certified technicians – like the experts at Banjo Nominees – install the device for you to prevent damage to plumbing systems. These plumbers are specifically trained to deal with backflow devices and have many years of experience so they’re the only technicians that can provide the most effective methods for backflow prevention.
Why You Need Backflow Testing and Prevention Services
It’s mandatory to have backflow prevention devices that meet Australian standards in the National Plumbing and Drainage Code (AS 3500. 1). Additionally, it’s compulsory to have backflow prevention devices tested every 12 months to ensure they’re working correctly.
Trained plumbers must maintain, inspect and repair backflow preventers to ensure cross-connections are properly controlled.
Backflow Laws and Legislations in Australia
Since Australia’s Water Act in 1989, there has been a series of water regulations and laws that have been put into place. Without abiding by these laws, the risk of contaminating water is high. Below is a list of legislations related to the Backflow Prevention Containment Policy:
- AS/NZS 2845 water supply: This legislation gives you information for the design, materials and performance required for backflow prevention devices.
- Plumbing code of Australia 2011: This document gives you information on how backflow preventers should be maintained, installed and repaired.
- Safe Water Drinking Act 2003: It contains water quality criteria and a risk management framework.
- Water Industry Regulations 2006: This document simply states that property owners are responsible for the maintenance and testing of backflow devices.
- AS/NZS 3500.1: Property owners must pay for the backflow prevention device and any services that pertain to a professional installation. The device must tie into the hazard ratings for the property.
- Water Industry Act 1989 and 1994: This document states that a Network Utility Operator has the authority to shut off the water supply from a property if the owner fails to install, replace, repair or maintain the required backflow preventer device.
The backflow preventer device must be approved to guarantee its efficiency. A device must be installed on every water service connection on a property. This includes fire hydrants and sprinkler systems inside commercial buildings.
Plumbing Services You Can Trust
Get ongoing backflow device maintenance from Banjo Nominees. We provide you with the backflow preventative measures you need to ensure your water system is running at optimum levels. Our company has been in the plumbing industry for over 55 years so we’re able to provide effective plumbing solutions for you.
Do you need backflow testing and prevention devices? Call Banjo Nominees on 03 9397 1111 to get a professional plumber Williamstown locals trust to inspect your backflow system. Or you can email john.pat.banjo@bigpond.com.
Get in touch with us today, so we can assist you with backflow repairs, regular maintenance and professional installations.