What is the Kingston Backflow Prevention Program?
The Kingston Backflow Prevention Program assures that equipment is installed to prevent sullied water from flowing back into the city’s water supply. Guaranteeing public safety and long-term safety of shared water resources. Numerous individuals are unaware that backflow conditions can endanger system water quality, posing a health risk to consumers drinking water from the system.
What does backflow mean?
In most cases, drinking water flows from the City’s distribution system into a property’s private water system. Backflow transpires when there’s a reversal of water flow, conventionally due to changes in water pressure. This ‘backflow’ can cause pollutants to enter the drinking water system.
Who can be affected by backflow?
Mostly this affects industrial, commercial and muilt-residental properties such as apartments, hotels, motels and schools. The program addresses the jeopardies 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
In January 2018 the city commenced contacting affected property owners with the requisites needed to comply with the new program. Owners of the higher risk properties have one year to consummate a site survey and one additional year to install devices to prevent backflow.
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.
