Introduction
We at the Authority strive to give the best possible service at the lowest possible cost. With this goal in mind, we have developed new ways of handling backflow prevention device installations by offering optional solutions to developers which may result in substantial savings. These savings can be realized up front during the construction phase while improving fire flow capacity and limiting future operating costs. New York Sanitary Code 5-1.31, requires the complete containment of water on many commercial customers' property by use of an approved backflow device. Other requirements exist which are more fully covered in our rules and regulations. However, for the purpose of this article, we have limited information to certain commercial, industrial, and residential applications. Should you determine that your requirements are not addressed in this article, please contact the New Service Department listed on the last page.

Description
The "RPZ" device, as it is commonly referred to, is a backflow prevention device which is used to prevent "backflow" of foreign liquids and other matter into the potable supply of water which could result in contamination. Backflow can occur when the pressure on our system is less then the pressure on a customer's system. For example, if a fire department were to draw too much water while fighting a fire, it would reduce the pressure in the area's water main below that which exists in, say an industrial building, thus back-siphoning chemical mixtures from the building into the water main. This could contaminate that area's water. While uncommon, pressure differentials can happen and protective devices must be used as required by law to protect the water supply.

The RPZ device, which actually prevents the backflow of water, stays open when water is flowing in one direction only. If a change of direction occurs, as it would during a major reduction in pressure, the RPZ device would close and prevent a contamination backflow.

Health Department Requirements
In addition to state regulations governing the requirements for backflow prevention devices, the Suffolk County Department of Health also requires that controls be in place for hazardous operations under private control in order to safeguard the water supply. These complete requirements can be obtained by contacting the Suffolk County Department of Health directly or our Cross Connection Control Department. Both are listed on the last page of this document.

Fire-flow Requirements and Effects
RPZ devices, while very effective in protecting the water supply from backflows, can cause reductions in pressure and fire-flow capacity.

Fire-flow capacity is regulated by fire departments, fire marshals, fire underwriting agencies and other regulating agencies. Their requirements may affect the size and makeup of a project, the cost of fire and liability insurance, and ultimately your bottom line.

We realize that it is important to prevent backflows for health reasons and to maintain good fire protection.

Construction Options
We can point out several options if you are constructing a shopping center, a mini-mall, industrial center, small private residential complex, a service center or any other commercial enterprise where fire protection is required, and that may have a private main, fire hydrants, fire lines, sprinkler systems, or a combination of any of these. If you are contemplating such construction, consulting with one of our new service managers prior to construction may provide you with less costly alternatives and reduced operating costs.

For example, if warehouses were built on a private street requiring 1,000 feet of water main with hydrants, an RPZ device would have to be placed at the property line where the 1,000 feet of main begins. The developer would pay all costs including approximately $30,000 for the "RPZ" device. The developer would also be permanently responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the entire main and other infrastructure on private property. Further, using this design, fire-flow at the hydrants and/or firelines would be impeded because of the installation of the RPZ device.

As an alternative, developers of commercial properties may contract with us for the cost of the main. For an additional reasonable one-time payment, we would assume permanent maintenance of the system, which would be owned by the Authority. This would eliminate a costly "RPZ" on the fire main at the property line which, in turn would be replaced by smaller individual domestic RPZ units only where necessary. Separate meters could then be installed. Overall costs may be reduced and increased fire protection would result.

Maintenance Responsibility
The operation and maintenance of water facility structures on private property are generally the proprietor's responsibility. This may include general maintenance of the structure, painting, street maintenance, repair of main breaks and interruptions of water service, related damages and insurance. Backup and administration to respond to any related emergency would also be required.

When we receive an easement and title to the infrastructure, we assume limited liability and all the above responsibilities permanently. A hold harmless clause is required for indirect damage caused by a main break or other activity. Indirect damage is generally covered by individual risk policies. The direct cost of the damage to the main and immediate area would be assumed by us.

Easement
Easements, or legal right of passage for the purpose of maintaining the water supply infrastructure, are required whenever we operate on private property. Forms and instructions are available at our New Service Department.

Hold Harmless Clause
A clause to hold us harmless in case of damage is required in any agreement for operations on private property. As a public corporation, we cannot be responsible for an activity occurring in the area of a private enterprise. However, since risks are generally covered by the owner's insurance, this should not be of any major consequence. We, of course, would be responsible for the repair of main breaks and for keeping the water supply infrastructure in operating condition. We reserve our right to bill others who may have actually caused damage. Furthermore, we would restore damage to the road and easement area, but would not be responsible for damage to the building.

Cost of Construction
The costs of construction in a private development are absorbed by the developer. Prices are based on current market conditions as reflected on publicly bid contracts. Estimates for all costs can be obtained from our new service managers.

One-Time Settlement for Maintenance Costs
If we assume responsibility for permanent operation and maintenance, we will determine a cost and discount it to a present value based on current public funding interest rates. A payment equal to this amount would be made to the Authority and you would incur no future costs.

Existing Hazardous Conditions
The above options describe and relate to a variety of new construction situations. However, the New York State Sanitary Code and Suffolk County Department of Health regulations effectively place certain existing entities using public water supplies in violation of said code and regulations. In order to safeguard the water supply and eliminate the violations, appropriate backflow prevention devices must be installed.

We recognize that this may impose a financial hardship on existing entities. We encourage all to eliminate possible violations independently, as soon as possible. However, if all other financial options have been exhausted, the Authority may be able to assist under certain conditions. Let us explore the situations in detail.

Responsible Solutions at Reasonable Cost
We have presented only a brief summary of how a particular problem can be solved. It may not be the only solution, but we are here to discuss alternative solutions to water supply, fire-flow and other related conditions in the most efficient cost effective way.

Let us know how we can help. Call or write to any of our offices listed in the reference section.

References

After Hours Emergency
(631) 665-0663

Cross Connection Control
(631) 563-0244

Suffolk County Department of Health
(631) 852-5810
(631) 852-5789

New Service Department
(631) 218-1148