Backflow prevention is the term used to prevent the reverse flow of water from a potentially polluted or contaminated source into the reticulated water supply.

Street Address l Ground Floor - 1 Nicholas Street, IpswichPostal Address l Plumbing Section - PO Box 191, Ipswich QLD 4305 Australia.

This is prevented by installing a backflow prevention device such as a one-way valve which prevents the contaminants from entering the drinking water supply.  These are available in testable and non-testable types depending on the risk associated with the possible contamination.  Testable devices require annual testing to ensure satisfactory operation.

A buried or partially buried rainwater tank requires a testable backflow prevention device to comply with the Australian Standard.

Backflow prevention starts within a property boundary by isolating a possible contamination source from the town mains or storage tanks (rainwater tanks) from the tap or appliance.

Backflow is caused by cross connection.  This is any point on a water system where a polluting substance may come in contact with drinking water.  This may include any piping system that allows access to the drinking water supply.