Cross-Connection Control Program

Ensuring Clean, Safe Drinking Water and Regulatory Compliance is Washington County's top priority.

For years, Washington County has complied with an important Regulatory Water Safety Compliance Program known as Cross-Connection Control.

This state mandated program focuses on non-residential (commercial) water service connections and on-site visual inspections to identify potentially harmful interconnections to the Washington County Public Water Supply

This web page serves to assist Washington County Customers with their participation in this important safety program. The town has selected HydroCorp to assist with Coordination, Site Visits, and Data/Compliance Management.

An Important Community-Wide Safety Project

Chapter 26.04.01.32 of the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) requires the development a cross-connection control plan to secure public water systems. Cross-connection control focuses on eliminating or protecting hazardous interconnections in the public water supply system which, in the event of a backflow incident, could inject pollutants and contaminants into the drinking water.

Commercial Facility Water Customers

Cross-Connection and Backflow FAQ

PART I: INSPECTIONS / SURVEYS

What is a Cross-Connection?

A cross-connection is an actual or potential connection between the safe drinking water (potable) supply and a source of contamination or pollution. State plumbing codes require approved backflow prevention methods to be installed at every point of potable water connection and use. Cross-Connections must be properly protected or eliminate

Why is HydroCorp inspecting my facility?

HydroCorp has been contracted by Washington County to assist with their Cross-connection Control (CCC) Program. The CCC program includes two parts: On-site inspections and testing of backflow prevention assemblies. The HydroCorp inspector will conduct a visual inspection of your potable water system to ensure proper backflow protection exists and will require access to the water meter, fire protection service inlet, lawn irrigation and any other area where backflow could occur, which may include areas inside the building.

What is the Inspector looking for on hose connection fixtures?

Hose Connection Vacuum Breaker Video

Residential Cross-Connection Control Survey | Exterior from HydroCorp on Vimeo.

I’ve never had an inspection before. Why do I need one now?

Washington County has had a CCC program for years, which began with inspections of all of the commercial and industrial accounts. Washington County has been conducting the inspections in the past however, Washington County will be utilizing HydroCorp to perform these site surveys beginning July 1, 2025.

My facility has to be inspected, but the property across the street doesn’t have to. Why?

All commercial water customers connected to the public water supply are required to be inspected for cross-connections. Washington County’s Cross Connection Control program is a 5-year program where all commercial properties will receive the first inspection in any 1 year from 2025 through 2029.

How long does the inspection take?

Depending on the size of your facility/property, the inspection time could range from 10 minutes to an hour.

Do I have to be present for the inspection?

If you received a letter informing you/the facility of an upcoming cross-connection inspection, please arrange for the appropriate manager/person is aware of the planned inspection. Access will be necessary for the inspector to visually observe all exposed hot/cold potable water plumbing connections.

Can I request a specific inspection time?

Yes. We just need a name and number so that the inspector can contact you to set up a time that is convenient for you.

Who is responsible for completing the repairs if necessary?

If you are the owner of the facility being inspected, you are responsible for any needed repairs. Renters may have to refer to their lease agreements in order to determine whether they are responsible for repairs.

Does your inspector carry identification?

All HydroCorp inspectors wear photo ID badges during inspections and are prepared to provide appropriate documentation verifying their identities.

Is this inspection mandatory?

Yes. These inspections are conducted in order to ensure compliance with state regulations to maintain the safety of your drinking water.

What happens if I refuse to have the inspection done or to correct any problems it identifies?

Penalties for refusing to cooperate with inspections and/or refusing to make needed repairs are determined by Washington County. These typically can include termination of water service, a fine, or both.

PART II: BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY TESTING

Why do I need to test my backflow prevention assembly?

Just like any other mechanical device, backflow prevention assemblies are prone to wear and tear, and do break down from time to time. Regular testing is required in order to ensure that your device remains in proper working order.

How often should I test my backflow prevention assembly?

Backflow Prevention Assemblies connected to public water system plumbing are required by the State of Maryland to be tested annually by a certified tester.

I received a test notice, but your inspector was just here and said everything was fine.

There are two parts to the Cross-connection Control Program. The first is an on site inspection by a cross-connection control inspector to ensure that the proper backflow prevention devices and assemblies are in place to protect your drinking water. Some of the assemblies the inspector finds or asks you to install are testable assemblies, which are mechanical and can malfunction. The testing notice refers to testing the operation of these backflow prevention assemblies. These tests must be performed by a certified tester.

Is any older, legacy equipment “grandfathered” in?

“Grandfathering” is not typically permitted due to the high importance of maintaining drinking water safety. Just like any other mechanical device, backflow prevention assemblies are prone to wear and tear, and do break down from time to time. Annual testing is required in order to ensure that your device remains in proper working order. If after a failed test, the device cannot be repaired and pass testing, the device must be replaced with a new backflow prevention assembly meeting current standards.

PART III: GENERAL RESOURCES

What is an anti-siphon fill valve device and why does mine need adjustment?

The anti-siphon fill valve device is located in the tank of your toilet. This device has a dual purpose: To fill the toilet and prevent backflow. This device must be placed at the proper height in order to insure that water from your toilet does not backflow into your drinking water. Proper placement is typically done during the installation process but can be easily overlooked. This device must be raised or the overflow pipe must be cut down in order to achieve a 1” air gap separation between the “critical level” of the assembly.

Click here for 3 minute video overview.

Hose connection vacuum breakers:

Example: Hose connection vacuum breakers

Example: Integrated vacuum breaker on outside hose spigot.

Avoid these cross-connection hazards:

Example: Hose end in bucket

Example: Hose end in pool

Incorrect continuous pressure installations:

Vacuum breaker should not be subject to continuous pressure like the example here illustrates. (This type of irrigation set up/system would need to be corrected.)

Examples of backflow prevention assemblies:

These require periodic performance testing by a Certified Tester.

Pressure Vacuum Breaker Assembly

Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly