Backflow Prevention
Building Owners: Backflow Prevention A Must
As of spring of 2008, industrial, commercial, institutional and multi-residential buildings require approved devices at water connections that prevent the risk of “backflow” into the drinking water system. For existing customers, the change will be spread out over five years with 600 customers affected each year. This will allow staff to work with the affected customers.
Customers who were required to comply in 2008 were notified by letter or contacted directly by the Development Services Department. Affected customers also received notice of a public information meeting on Backflow Prevention.
The Backflow and Cross-Connection Prevention Program forms part of the City of Thunder Bay’s Waterworks By-Law 060-2007, developed in accordance with the requirements of the Provincial Safe Drinking Water Act. This Act requires all Municipal Drinking Water Systems to address risks to the safety of the distribution system–including the risk of backflow from contaminated water.
For further information, contact the Backflow Prevention Officer at 625-3430
Who’s Affected?
- Industrial buildings
- Commercial buildings
- Institutional buildings
- Multi-residential buildings
- 3,000 customers over five years
What is backflow?
Normally, water flows from the City’s distribution system into the plumbing in a building. Backflow is the reversal of that water flow direction which could allow potentially contaminated water from a private water system, such as a boiler, sprinkler system or even a sink, to be drawn back into the City water mains. This risk can be eliminated by installing the appropriate backflow devices.
Forms, FAQs & More
- Downloadable Forms
- Plumbing and Mechanical Companies with Certified Backflow Prevention Device Testers
- Frequently Asked Questions
