The State of Illinois’ Cross-Connection Control Program is one of several tools intended to protect water consumers in the state. Section 18 of the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (P.A. 89-445, eff. 2-7-96; 90-773, eff. 8-14-98) and 35 Ill. Adm. Code 607.104 provides the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) direction from both the Illinois legislature and Illinois Pollution Control Board. These statutes establish that no person can threaten a water supply and that water supply officials are responsible for protecting their water mains from connections that have the potential to allow the backflow of contaminants into their respective distribution systems. Further, 35 Ill. Adm. Code 602.115 gives the Illinois EPA authority to develop and modify “Agency” regulations regarding cross-connection control at community water supplies. These regulations have been developed and modified under 35 Ill. Adm. Code 653.802 and 653.803. These “Agency” regulations outline what comprises a viable Cross-Connection Control Program.
Village of River Forest Cross-Connection Control Program
Village Code (Section 5-11-6) requires that cross connection control devices be installed, in accordance with the Illinois Plumbing Code, to prevent potentially contaminated water from flowing back into the Village's water supply. Village Code requires that the cross connection device be tested annually and that these tests must be certified by a licensed Cross Connection Control Device Inspector (CCCDI) and the results submitted to BSI Online annually.
How do I know if my test report has been received?
To verify that your test results have been received, go to www.bsionlinetracking.com/customer and enter the Customer Confirmation Number (CCN) that appears on your notification letter. If your test results have not been entered, please remind your contractor to do so.
What is the purpose of the Cross Connection Control Program?
- Protect the public water supply system from contamination or pollution by isolating within the customer's water system contaminants or pollutants which could backflow through the service connection into the public water supply system.
- Promote the elimination or control of existing cross-connection, actual or potential, between the public or consumer's potable water system and nonpotable water systems containing substances of unknown or questionable quality.
- Provide for the maintenance of a continuing program of cross-connection control which will prevent the contamination or pollution of the public and consumer's potable water systems.
What is a backflow preventer?
A backflow preventer is a plumbing device which prevents the backflow of water (reversing its flow and returning to the supply system) by using a check valve, which permits flow in only one direction by using a hinged flapper or guided poppet that opens when the flow is going in one direction but will close if the direction reverses.
What happens if I do not install a cross connection control device?
In accordance with the Village Code, failure to comply with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency's cross connection control requirements will result in water shut-off. Once a proper control device is installed, the Village will reinstitute water service.
Can I disconnect my sprinkler system instead of installing a cross connection control device?
Yes. However, you may not reconnect your sprinkler system until a proper cross connection control device is installed. The Village will be conducting periodic inspections to ensure compliance.
Who do I contact with questions concerning this program?
BSI Online, a backflow management firm, has been contracted to maintain the backflow program for the Village of River Forest. All questions should be directed to BSI Online customer service at 1-800-414-4990.
Click her to view the Backflow Academy and learn more about cross-connection and preventing backflow incidents »
If you need a plumber, view the list of Approved Cross Connection Inspectors in the State of Illinois. An updated list may be obtained from http://www.siue.edu/ertc/cross-connection-control-device-inspector/.