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A cross-connection is present when
there is a possibility that the potable drinking water could mix with the
non-potable wastewater. The most
logical occurrence is when the pressure in the supply system changes or is
turned off, and non-potable water is drawn into the supply system. Examples:
 When
the faucet outlet or spout is below the rim or upper-most level of a sink or
tub.A spout may be very close to the rim, and if someone adds or raises the level of
the rim with some typ of tile on the counter top, you would have a cross-connection.
- A
sink or bathtub with a sprayer or shower head with a hose that is below the rim
could allow contaminated water to be drawn into the supply piping if the
pressure goes off or is turned off.
- The
toilet supply may become detached and fall below the water level or drain
overflow tube.
- The water in the tank may be drawn into the supply line if the
pressure goes off.
- A garden hose could end up in a number of undesirable areas that could draw
contaminated materials into the hose or supply system.
- Contaminated
water could drain into a dishwasher if the sink drain backs up. This may not
affect the clean dishes, however, it is a dangerous condition that could have
significant ramifications.
Conditions have to be just
right for these problems to occur, but they are possible. Stagnant,
contaminated fixtures can impact the good water coming through a compromised
fixture for months or longer if the conditions allow the contaminants to
flourish, such as in the bottom of a dishwasher.
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General
Water
Supply Lines Valves
Waste Water Disposal Drain
Line Materials
Pipe Installations Shower/Tub
Wall Surfaces Fixtures
Gas Piping Common
Defects
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