The Importance of National Backflow Prevention Day

Every August 16th, we celebrate National Backflow Prevention Day, a date that might not come with parades and fireworks but should! This day recognizes the importance of backflow prevention in protecting our clean, potable water and public health for all.

Clean water is something we often take for granted, but without proper safeguards and precautions, contaminants can flow the wrong way and compromise entire water systems. This is why backflow prevention devices and backflow data management/cross-connection control programs are essential and why this day is nationally recognized.

A Quick Refresher: What Is Backflow?

Backflow typically happens when water flows in reverse, pulling contaminants like pesticides, chemicals, or waste into the clean water supply. It can be caused by changes in pressure from firefighting efforts, water main breaks, or even high demand from industrial facilities.

To prevent this, specialized devices called backflow preventers are installed at critical junctions in plumbing systems (commercial and residential), and they must be tested annually to ensure they are working properly.

Backflow testing is crucial for protecting public health and ensuring the safety of drinking water. Regular backflow testing is a simple yet essential step in maintaining a safe water supply and preventing contamination that could endanger both public health and infrastructure.

Backflow prevention and cross-connection control education is critical to managing a successful program. Created with all stakeholders in mind, BSI launched Backflow Academy, where we provide comprehensive training and resources to help you master the complexities of backflow program management.

Why August 16th?

National Backflow Prevention Day commemorates the tragic cross-connection incident that occurred in Chicago in 1933, where a city-wide plumbing failure led to widespread contamination. It is a somber reminder that even a small lapse in protection can have massive consequences and why proactive testing and prevention are vital.

How You Can Celebrate the Day:

  • Schedule your annual test if you have not already!
  • Raise awareness on social media by sharing how your business or home remains compliant.
  • Thank your local testers and inspectors who are the unsung heroes of public health.
  • Educate your team or customers about what backflow prevention is and why it matters. We have resources here!

Modern Solutions for a Modern Challenge

Managing backflow prevention does not have to be a headache. Services and solutions like BSI Online make scheduling tests, storing reports, and reaching/maintaining compliance easier than ever. With the right digital tools in place, protecting your community’s water becomes a seamless part of your workflow.

BSI Online is the leading backflow compliance management system trusted by water purveyors coast to coast. Whether you manage a small rural district or a major metropolitan provider, our platform adapts to your needs while maintaining full State/Provincial and EPA compliance. We understand regulations and requirements differ state to state, this is why our platform is designed to comply with state-specific regulations and local ordinances.

For over two decades, BSI Online has assisted water purveyors across the United States and Canada simplify, automate, and enforce their backflow prevention programs.

  • 2 Countries
  • 39 States and Provinces
  • 1,000+ Water Systems Managed
  • 1,500,000+ Backflow Assemblies Tracked
  • Fully compliant with local & State regulations

National Backflow Prevention Day is not just about plumbing. It is about health, safety, and smart systems that keep us all protected. Take a moment to reflect on the importance of the work we do, and let’s raise a clean glass to safer water everywhere! Read more about BSI Online here!