B a c k fl o w Pr e v e n t i o nfrom the

Hydraulic Consultant’s PerspectivePresented by

Chris TrittonPresident, AHSCA, Qld

Generally Hydraulic Consultants use AS 3500.1 as a guide to the provision of backflow devices on water supplies. However the standard doesn’t cover all situations.

*Identifying Areas of Risk Outside AS 3500.1 Requirements* Responding to Requirements of Local Authorities

(in some cases, a conflict between Consultants and Plumbing Inspectors’ interpretation of code)

*Resolving Conflicts between Standards and Codes

AS 3500.1Challenges for Hydraulic

Consultants

*In some cases, Consultants are caught when Standards are Revised and the Implications of those Revisions are not Foreseen.

AS 1428.1 – 2001Shower Head to Be

Adjustable from 1000-

1900mm Above Floor

1428.1 Requires 1500mm Hose Creates Cross

Connection between Water

Closet, Wall Outlet

& Hose Length

Clearly A High Hazard!

AS 1428.1 – 2009

Increase Width

of Room

Ensure Shower Hose Does Not Reach Water Closet

Clearly an Ideal Safety Standard!

AS 1428.1 – 2009 Challenges

*Councils: Directive from Plumbing Inspectors to Install RP2D’s on Hot & Cold Water to Shower

*Unfortunately, these devises protect Water Supplies but not Shower Users!!

AS 1428.1Subtle Changes Catch Everyone

Out

*Identify Areas of Risk

*Work with Architects during Schematic Design Phase

*Instigate discussions with Authorities when Necessary

*Keep Client Informed

To Ensure Planning Eliminates these Issues

As Consultants,

The Consultant is Responsible for:

Identifying Risk & Either Proposing to:

Eliminate the Risk OR Incorporate Appropriate Backflow Protection(Containment, Zone or Individual Devices)

Consultant’s Responsibilities

*Produce Cost Effective Designs

*Provide Efficient Systems

*Provide Safe Drinking Water Supplies

*Minimize Ongoing Maintenance Expenditures

Client Expectations(In Regard to Water Supplies)

Thank You!