Backflow Prevention Practice Exam

Containing a plumbing system from the public water supply requires backflow protection at the _______?

1. Appliance or fixture

2. Building foundation

3. Irrigation system

4. Service Connection

The correct answer is: Service Connection

Backflow protection is essential to prevent contamination of the public water supply from any point in a plumbing system where water could flow back in the opposite direction due to a drop in pressure, a cross-connection, or backpressure. The service connection is the point where the public water supply enters a property or building. Installing backflow prevention devices at the service connection provides a critical barrier to protect the public system from potential contaminants that could be introduced from the plumbing system. Ensuring backflow protection at this point is a widely accepted best practice in plumbing and public health safety. Other points within the plumbing system, such as appliances, fixtures, or irrigation systems, may also require protection, but the service connection serves as the first line of defense to safeguard the public water supply.