State and federal regulations require the City to operate a Cross Connection Control Program to reduce the chances of an accidental contamination of the public water supply caused by the backflow of water from a customer’s plumbing system into the public water mains.

Cross connections are found in all plumbing systems. It is important that each cross connection be identified and evaluated as to the type of backflow protection required to protect the drinking water supply. Some plumbing fixtures have built-in backflow protection in the form of a physical air gap. However, most cross connections will need to be controlled through the installation of an approved mechanical backflow prevention device or assembly.

Major Components of the Cross Connection Control Program

The City is required to survey all residential and commercial water customers every two years. The most recent survey was conducted in 2024, with the next one scheduled for 2026.

• This survey is to identify and eliminate possible sources of cross connections to help ensure the safety of the public water supply. The information collected through the surveys helps to identify where backflow prevention devices may be needed as well as providing information on existing devices that may not have been previously submitted to the City.
• Information to submit a Residential and Commercial Survey was included in the Annual Water Quality Report that was mailed to every water customer in May, 2024.
• During the months of August, September, and October, 2024, information regarding the submittal of a Residential and Commercial Survey was printed on each water customers City utility bill envelope.  
• Water customers were directed to go on-line to complete the survey. 

Each year a Backflow Test Report must be submitted for all backflow prevention devices.

• Backflow may affect the quality of the drinking water at your facility and has the potential to create health hazards if contaminated water enters your water supply plumbing system and is used for drinking, cooking, or bathing.
• It is the water customer's responsibility to ensure that unprotected cross connections are not created and that any required backflow prevention devices are tested in accordance with state requirements and maintained in operable condition.
• You are responsible for hiring a licensed backflow tester to perform the annual test and certification of the backflow assembly(s).
• The City of Rock Island has partnered with BSI Online to assist in administering the Cross Connection Control Program. BSI Online will issue a Customer Confirmation Number (CCN) to use when reports have been submitted at the BSI online tracking website. You may also use this e-mail to verify when your backflow test has been filed, locate a list of testers in the area, or to simply learn more about backflow.
• Please contact BSI Online via email or phone at 1-888-966-6050 if you have any questions.

For a better understanding of the Cross Connection Control Program please view the Frequently Asked Questions.