Backflow Prevention
We have officially transitioned to our new backflow management system AquaResource.
Please be advised that we will no longer accept backflow test reports submitted via PDF, email, or paper copy. All test results must be entered and submitted directly through the AquaResource website.
- Register / Submit Here
- Please refer to the AquaResource How-To Website for step-by-step instructions on navigating the new system. Because BRWC and LAWCO include local requirements and special cases, please also consult the AquaResource Operations Guide for BRWC & LAWCO.
- If you are experiencing technical issues after reviewing the documentation, please call (337) 365-0002 or email lawcobackflow@louisianawater.com.
Thank you for your cooperation during this transition.
Backflow Prevention Program
In accordance with Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regulations, Louisiana Water Company manages a Backflow Prevention Program. This program protects the public water supply by preventing cross-contamination from backflow.
What is Backflow?
Backflow occurs when the normal direction of water flow in a pipeline or plumbing system is reversed, typically due to a change in water pressure caused by either backpressure or backsiphonage. Continue reading below for further details on the causes of these occurrences.
The pressure in the pipe connected to the water main is greater than the pressure in the main itself. This difference in pressure pushes water backward. This could be caused by pumps, piping systems elevation, or thermal expansion from a heat source.
Water can be pulled back into the water system due to loss of pressure in the system, such as a water main break, maintenance, or high-demand activities, including firefighting.
Why is Backflow Dangerous?
Backflow creates the potential for cross contamination, which is when water that has contacted chemicals or hazardous compounds is sucked back into our drinking water system.
Who is Required to have Backflow Prevention?
Commercial: All Commercial customers are required to have a reduced pressure type backflow prevention device to protect against the highest hazard risk.
Industrial, Irrigation, and Fire Lines: Industrial, irrigation, and fire line services (per State Fire Marshal and LAWCO requirements) are required to have an approved backflow preventer installed and tested annually.
Auxiliary Water Supply or Dual Water Lines: Customers with an auxiliary water supply or dual water lines, such as a well or pond, also are required to install and maintain backflow prevention assemblies.
How to Prevent Backflow
To prevent backflow and protect the quality of our drinking water, customers are required to fill water vessels safely and comply with backflow regulations. Below are some common ways of preventing backflow.
The most common form of cross connections on residential properties is a submerged hose in non-drinkable water. You can avoid this cross connection by filling the vessel (tub, swimming pool, ornamental fountain) with a gap between the end of the hose and the vessel, also known as an air gap.
Another level of protection on your hose is a hose bib vacuum breaker; this device is not testable but is required to prevent cross connections between a hose and vessel for when an air gap is not achieved.
For irrigation systems, a Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB) is used to prevent backsiphonage of yard maintenance contaminants.
Not all cross connections can be eliminated, especially for commercial customers. In these cases, backflow preventers (BFPs) are installed within a customer’s plumbing system to prevent cross contamination.
The type of BFP required will correspond with the highest risk. The customer shall install a Reduced Pressure Zone BFP to protect against the highest degree of hazard. All BFP’s shall meet the requirements of all applicable federal, state, and local codes or ordinances for water service including, but not limited to, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), the International Plumbing Code (IPC), and the Louisiana Administrative Code (Titles 17 & 51).
Fire protection service connections are required to have an approved reduced Pressure (RP) Detector BFP at the service connection to the public water supply or immediately downstream of the service connection.
Prior to initiating water service, the customer shall forward certification, signed by a licensed Louisiana Master Plumber with a Water Supply Protection Specialist (WSPS) endorsement, stating that the installation complies with all applicable codes. Click here for a list of approved installers.
Annual Testing and Reporting
Louisiana laws and regulations require customers with a backflow prevention device to have the system tested and inspected once a year. The inspection must be completed by a service provider certified to perform this type of work.
For a list of certified plumbers, visit the LDH website.
Once the test is complete, the inspection/test must be entered into LAWCO Backflow Management Program AquaResource (AQR).
Customers who fail to submit a passed inspection within the past 12 months may have their water service turned off until a passed inspection is received.
Plumber Requirements
The following procedures govern the installation and testing of backflow preventers (BFP) within the Louisiana Water Company (LAWCO) service areas. It is the responsibility of each plumber to become familiar with the procedures established by LAWCO. Failure to abide by the regulations set forth herein shall be cause for non-acceptance of installed and tested BFPs within LAWCO.
To provide backflow testing and installation within our service area, plumbers must:
- Provide a copy of their plumbing license showing Water Supply Protection Specialist (WSPS) endorsement.
- Show proof that their test equipment has been calibrated within the last year
- Provide a copy of their Tester Certification or Recertification Certificate.
For details about these requirements, view our LAWCO Backflow Prevention Program Policies and Procedures for Plumbers document.
Plumber Procedures
Approved plumbers are required to follow the procedures outlined in the dropdown sections below.
Plumbers must contact and coordinate with LAWCO prior to the installation or removal of any BFPs at 337-365-0002 or lawcobackflow@louisianawater.com. Additionally, upon completion of the installation, the plumber must contact LAWCO for installation inspection and approval. For specific details about installation and retrofit policies and procedures, view our LAWCO Backflow Prevention Program Policies and Procedures for Plumbers document.
- Upon completion of the installation, the plumber/tester shall test the device (including the bypass on DDCAs on fire service lines).
- Test reports must be submitted by the plumber / tester to AquaResource and a copy of the report provided to the customer for their records.
- Reports shall include the meter number and customer account number.
- Tests are to be submitted annually and immediately after repairs or relocations.
- LAWCO will maintain test reports for a minimum of five (5) years.
- Testers need to submit Test Reports to AQR and provide copy to customer.
- Plumbers are allowed to make copies of the test report form.
- Non-compliance with these procedures may cause for disallowance of future backflow work within LAWCO.
Questions?
Contact us at lawcobackflow@louisianawater.com.
The Backflow Prevention Program is brought to you by:
