SafetyQuestion 340 of 360
Cross-connection control is a core public-health duty of a plumber. What is a 'cross-connection'?
a.A pipe that crosses over another pipe without touching
b.The point where hot and cold water mix at a faucet
c.Any actual or potential connection between the potable water system and a source of contamination
d.A junction between two sections of the sewer main
Explanation
A cross-connection is any actual or potential link between the potable (drinking) water system and a non-potable source such as sewage, chemicals, or an irrigation line. If pressure drops or reverses, contaminants can be drawn or pushed into the drinking water. Controlling cross-connections with air gaps and backflow assemblies is a primary way plumbers protect public health.
Law Reference: California Plumbing Code §603Practice all 360 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- A supervisor wants to skip the full permit process for a sewer entry by claiming the space is 'reclassified' as non-permit. Under Cal/OSHA, when is such reclassification allowed?
- The most reliable protection against backflow contaminating drinking water is a physical separation. What is an 'air gap' as defined for cross-connection control?
- A plumber is protecting the public water supply where a commercial boiler with chemical treatment connects to city water (a high-hazard, health-hazard cross-connection). Which backflow assembly is appropriate?
- A water main break drops city pressure to zero while a garden hose is left submerged in a bucket of fertilizer. Contaminated water is drawn back into the potable system. What is this type of backflow called?
- After installing a reduced-pressure backflow assembly on a commercial water service, what ongoing requirement protects the public water supply?
- The most common cross-connection in a home is an outdoor hose faucet, where a hose can be left in a pool, sink, or chemical bucket. What inexpensive device protects against backsiphonage there?
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