The City of Ottawa’s Backflow Prevention Program
About The Program
The Backflow Prevention Program assures that devices are installed to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the city’s water supply.
Ensuring public safety and long-term safety of shared water resources.
Many people are unaware that backflow conditions can jeopardize system water quality, posing a health risk to consumers drinking water from the system.
Helpful Links
What is backflow?
In most cases, drinking water flows from the City’s distribution system into a property’s private water system. Backflow happens when there’s a reversal of water flow, usually due to changes in water pressure. This ‘backflow’ can cause pollutants to enter the drinking water system.
Who is affected?
Mostly this affects industrial, commercial and muilt-residental properties such as apartments, hotels, motels and schools. The program addresses the risks of these types of buildings if they are 3 stories or higher or have a footprint over 600 m2 (or 6,458 ft2). The highest risk properties include vehicle repair shops, hospitals and dental facilities.
Timeline for program compliance
Qualified installers and testers
Our plumbers are fully certified to conduct site surveys, install backflow devices and test current devices. They can provide information and submit annual calibration test data for your equipment.
More Information on the backflow prevention program
To find out more information about the backflow prevention program in your area please check with you municipality or supplier of water. There are many municipalities across Ontario that are active in this program. Follow our helpful links to find out everything you need to know about the program in your area.
