Backflow Protection FAQs
Schedule 2 paragraphs 2, 14 & 15 [Regulation/Byelaw 3]
Please note: these FAQs are informational only
The information published here is intended to illustrate how compliance with the water fittings regulations in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, byelaws in Scotland may be achieved.
General Backflow Protection FAQs
- What is backflow?
- What is contamination?
- What is a fluid category?
- Who assess backflow risks?
- What is a backflow prevention arrangement or device?
- How should mechanical backflow prevention devices be installed?
- What form of backflow protection should be installed as point of use protection?
- Are there any circumstances when point of use protection is not required?
- What is the difference between point of use, zone and wholesite backflow protection?
- Does zone or wholesite backflow protection have to be installed?
- Are appliances incorporating pumps of concern?
- When does schedule 2 paragraph 2 not apply?
- When can the different forms of backflow protection be used?
Specific Installation Backflow Protection FAQs
- Do appliances (whitegoods) incorporate acceptable backflow protection?
- When can a filling loop be used?
- What backflow protection is required for alternative water sources?
- What backflow protection is needed in bathrooms?
- What backflow protection is needed for premises on a common supply?
- What backflow protection is required for fire suppression systems?
- What backflow protection is required for high risk taps?
- What backflow protection is needed for hose taps?
- What backflow protection is needed in laboratories?
- What level of risk are pre-rinse pot wash taps?
- What is a Type AB air gap?
- What is an unrestricted discharge from a Type AB air gap?
- What backflow protection is required for underground storage?
- What backflow protection is required for wastewater and chemical emptying points on camping sites and holiday parks?
Some of the relevant Regulations/Byelaws
Backflow protection: Schedule 2 paragraphs 2 and 14 set backflow protection requirements for specific installations, paragraph 15 the requirements for preventing contamination as a result of backflow.
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Disclaimer
Uncontrolled if downloaded. This is informative, non-statutory guidance and intended for general guidance purposes only; it is subject to change.
Compliance with this information should not be relied upon as guaranteeing no enforcement action will be taken by water undertakers. Water Regs UK accepts no liability for loss, indirect or consequential loss arising from or in connection with this guidance document.