Note: The CFIA recommends that a qualified person test backflow preventers. Provincial water and wastewater associations or municipalities may provide lists of certified or licensed testers.

You can use several types of devices to prevent backflow as long as the device effectively prevents back-siphonage and can withstand backpressure if needed. A trained professional can help you choose the device that best fits your facility and system design.

The CFIA verifies the compliance of a food business by conducting activities that include inspection, and surveillance. When non-compliance is identified, the CFIA takes appropriate compliance and enforcement actions.

While the document provides examples of measures to prevent backflow, it is not exhaustive ­the preventive measures needed will depend on the size and complexity of the food business and be unique for each business. The document does not cover:

If your facility has a secondary or alternative water system, such as a sprinkler system, there is a risk of forming back pressure if the two systems are interconnected. Backflow is most likely to occur when the following conditions exist:

Food businesses are responsible for complying with the law. They demonstrate compliance by ensuring that the commodities and processes for which they are responsible meet regulatory requirements. If a written preventive control plan (PCP) is required, the food business develops a PCP with supporting documents, monitors and maintains evidence of its implementation, and verifies that all control measures are effective.

Federal, provincial, or municipal plumbing codes require backflow prevention for potable water systems. A well designed and properly maintained air gap at the supply fixture is the best means available for protection against backflow. However, an air gap is not always practical and is vulnerable to bypass arrangements that can nullify its effectiveness. If you do not use an air gap at the supply fixture to protect against backflow, a mechanical backflow preventer will serve the same purpose.

Methods used to prevent backflow may be simple or complex depending on the nature of the food processing environment. You may choose to have a qualified party assess your facility's backflow prevention needs and maintenance.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) created this document as guidance to help food businesses comply with the requirements set out in the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations.

You may use other guidance developed by provincial governments, industry associations, international partners or academic bodies as long as they can achieve the outcomes identified in the regulations. Always ensure that the guidance you choose is relevant for your particular business, product or products, and market requirements.

This document does not replace provincial or municipal plumbing codes. Regulated parties are responsible for ensuring that existing and new installations made in their facility meet applicable plumbing codes and regulations whether federal, provincial or municipal.

Backflow of water presents a risk of contamination to the water supply and the distribution lines in an establishment. The use of prevention devices at key locations can help you prevent backflow and the contamination of the water supply.

The following references contain information that helps explain food safety controls, demonstrates how to develop them, and provides examples. The CFIA is not responsible for the content of documents that are created by other government agencies or international sources.

Inspection and testing activities differ for non-mechanical and mechanical backflow preventers. The following describes the type of inspection and testing that should be done for each of them.