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Operations and Maintenance

Backflow Prevention Device Inspector/Tester Training course held

Posted: June 17, 2010

From June 7th to 10th, the Bethlehem Central School District Operations and Maintenance Department hosted a Backflow Prevention Device Inspector/Tester Training course, at the O&M facility in Bethlehem. The course, given by New England Water Works Association (NEWWA), is a rigorous training program that will allow an individual to become a NYS Certified Backflow Preventer Inspector/Tester.

"Backflow" prevention essentially means that when pressure drops in the public water supply, water in another storage location is not drawn into the public water supply system, resulting in contaminated water.

"Backflow" is prevented through a series of valves in the water supply infrastructure. A new mandate requires the district to conduct inspections of these valves on a regular basis. This can be done through either a private company or by having staff members undergo training like the one recently conducted.

“The ability of our employees to perform Backflow Testing/Inspection internally will save the Bethlehem district approximately $5,000 per year in outside contractor costs,” Bethlehem Central School District Director of Facilities Gregg Nolte said. “It will allow us the flexibility to inspect, test, and repair as part of our scheduled preventative maintenance program. If we have a failure, we can repair and retest immediately to keep our schools and community drinking water supply safe.”

a group photo of the class instruction

a picture of the practical exercise portion