California State Water Board mandates new backflow prevention and certification requirements

The State Water Resources Control Board held a meeting on April 25, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the Cross Connection Control Policy Handbook, which aims to enhance public water system safety in California. Key changes include new certification requirements for testers and specialists, expanded record-keeping protocols, and the introduction of public education initiatives.

One of the most notable updates is the addition of tester and specialist certifications as a requirement. Previously, these roles only needed to demonstrate competency through training or certification from various organizations without regulatory oversight. The new handbook mandates that certifying organizations obtain recognition from the State Water Board and ANSI accreditation by July 1, 2027. This change aims to ensure a higher standard of competency among professionals involved in backflow prevention.

The handbook also retains many assembly testing requirements from Title 17 but introduces additional stipulations. Water systems must now verify that backflow protection corresponds to the identified hazards through field inspections. Annual testing remains mandatory, with new requirements for inspecting air gaps and addressing defective assemblies within 30 days.

Record-keeping requirements have been expanded to include detailed documentation of each backflow prevention assembly, air gap, and associated hazard assessments. Water systems must maintain these records for at least three years, ensuring accountability and traceability in compliance efforts.

A new element in the handbook focuses on backflow incident response. Water systems are now required to investigate and notify the state of suspected backflow incidents within 24 hours. This includes documenting responses and coordinating with local agencies for public notification and follow-up actions.

Public education and outreach have also been emphasized as essential components of the updated policy. Water systems are encouraged to inform customers about backflow prevention through various channels, including bill inserts and community events, to raise awareness and reduce the risk of incidents.

Lastly, the handbook introduces a requirement for developing a cross connection control plan, which must be submitted within one year of the handbook's effective date, set for July 1, 2025. This plan will facilitate better coordination among local entities involved in water safety, including plumbing code officials and health departments.

These updates reflect a comprehensive effort by the State Water Resources Control Board to strengthen the safety and reliability of California's public water systems, ultimately aiming to protect public health and enhance community awareness regarding water quality issues.