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What is a Cross-Connection?
A "cross-connection" is an unprotected actual or potential connection between a potable water system (water that is safe for drinking) and any source or system containing water or other substance that is not safe, wholesome, and fit for human consumption (examples include a cooling system or irrigation system.)
Backflow testing is a process that is used to test your plumbing system to make sure that drinking water is not being contaminated by dirty water or chemicals infiltrating the water supply.
What is the Inspection Process?
The Environmental Health Division conducts cross-connection control inspections within water users' premises and at recycled water use areas to ensure that the drinking water supply is not connected to potential sources of contamination. To report a suspected or known cross connection please call us at (714) 433-6280 or email us at OCBackFlowTests@ochca.com.
Click here for a list of Cross Connection Control Specialists for water agencies in Orange County
Orange County Backflow Prevention Tester Guidelines and Tester Registration
Quick Links:
- REMINDER: Annual Testing of All Internal Backflow Prevention Assemblies
- Backflow Tester Application Packet
- Backflow Prevention Assembly Test Report
Tester Registration Requirements
Applicants:
The OC Health Care Agency Environmental Health (HCA) has made revisions to the Backflow Assembly Testing Program in accordance with changes in recent legislation. During this interim period we have extended Orange County backflow tester certifications set to expire on July 1, 2024, to now remain valid until July 1, 2025.
After July 1, 2025 we will require all backflow testers in Orange County to have a valid ANSI accredited organization certification (e.g. AWWA) and a valid registration with HCA.
To complete the HCA registration / application process:
Download, complete and email back the Backflow Tester Application packet to: OCBackFlowTests@ochca.com.
A completed Application must include:
- A copy of your ANSI accredited organization certificate (e.g. AWWA, etc.)
- Your completed and signed Backflow Tester Application
- Your completed and signed Backflow Tester Code of Conduct
- Proof of your backflow test kit calibration
- A current head shot photo
Once your submission has been received and reviewed, you will be contacted with a registration confirmation.
Note: No additional fees will be required at that time for the registration.
Registered applicants are responsible for maintaining the continuous validity of all necessary licenses and certificates. Failure to keep these credentials current may lead to the invalidation of their HCA backflow assembly tester registration. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
Contact Information Updates: Testers are responsible for promptly informing HCA-EH about any changes in their contact information. Contact (714) 433-6000 or email OCBackFlowTests@ochca.com for updates.
Licensing and Compliance Requirements
A State contractor's license is not mandatory to be a registered tester. However, testers must ensure compliance with State and local laws and regulations regarding necessary business licenses, contractor's licenses, insurance, etc.
Different water suppliers have specific guidelines and additional requirements for backflow prevention testing. It is crucial for testers to communicate directly with the water suppliers to ensure compliance with their individual regulations. Click here for a list of Cross Connection Control Specialists for water agencies in Orange County
Equipment Maintenance and Backflow Assembly Test Reporting
Test Kit Maintenance: Testers are responsible for maintaining their test kits in good repair, calibrating them yearly, and conducting repairs as needed.
Report Submission:
- All backflow assembly test reports must be submitted to HCA-EH and the water supplier within 10 days of the initial test, regardless of the result.
- Reports must be submitted individually by location on approved forms as PDF attachments
- The name of the water supplier must be typed correctly into the subject
- The PDF report must be saved as: OC Registration # - assembly address
- Reports are only accepted via email to OCBackFlowTests@ochca.com
Orange County Published Backflow Tester List
Tester List: Registered backflow testers may opt for inclusion in a published listing exclusively on HCA's website. The listing is organized by tester seniority to assist businesses in locating OC HCA registered backflow testers.
Click Here for the Backflow Prevention Device Tester List
Violations and Disciplinary Actions
Suspension or Revocation: The Orange County Health Officer, or his designee, may suspend, revoke, or refuse to renew a tester's registration upon finding fraud, deception, gross negligence, misconduct or violation of the Orange County's Code of Conduct for Backflow Prevention Testers after an administrative hearing. Suspensions or referrals will be reported and referred to the ANSI accredited Certifying Organization.
Public Records Act Requests: Suspension, revocation and test reports are subject to disclosure per The California Public Records Act found in the California Government Code, beginning at Section 6250. Records subject to inspection and copying include any writings, meaning any handwriting, typewriting, printing, photostating, photographing, and every other means of recording upon any form of communication or representation, including information available in an electronic format.
Legal Consequences: Violations of Health and Safety Code Sections 116800-116820 or may lead to misdemeanor complaints or disciplinary actions. Knowingly filing a false test report may be a misdemeanor offense.