What does the term 'cross-connection' refer to in plumbing?

The term 'cross-connection' refers to a specific plumbing scenario where there is a connection between potable (drinking) water supply and non-potable (potentially contaminated) water. This situation poses a significant health risk, as it allows for the potential backflow of contaminants into the drinking water supply.

In plumbing systems, it is crucial to maintain the integrity of the drinking water supply through proper design and installation practices. A cross-connection can occur in various settings, such as when a hose connected to a faucet is placed into a bucket of chemicals, allowing the risk of those chemicals to enter the potable water system if backflow occurs.

Understanding cross-connections is essential for plumbers, as they must implement appropriate backflow prevention measures, such as installing air gaps or backflow preventers, to protect public health and safety. This knowledge is vital for compliance with plumbing codes and regulations aimed at safeguarding drinking water.