Plumbing Connection Autumn 2016

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The problem arises because while it is only a pencil, there
may be standards for the eraser function, the sharpener
and the food grade material used as the marker. So which
standard applies to this product so that an approval can be
granted? Or do they all apply? Is it the responsibility of the
WaterMark Conformity Assessment Body to identify all the
applicable standards and request the necessary testing?
The manufacturer may ask that it only be assessed as a
pencil as the other features are not integral to the function
of the pencil.
Now to relate this back to plumbing products and
backflow prevention. This exact issue is being seen every
day where products designed to be connected to the water
supply, perform multiple functions and operations through
technical advancement and innovation.
These products include cooking equipment, beauty
equipment, dental equipment, bathroom fixtures, hygiene
equipment, agricultural equipment... the list goes on.
The Australian Backflow Prevention Association is
regularly made aware of WaterMarked products being sold
where the risk of a cross connection may be possible should
a backflow event arise. Upon clarification or investigation,
often the protection offered is inadequate and does not meet
the requirements of the applicable Standard AS/NZS2845.1-
2010. Therefore installation of this product to the water
supply would require additional backflow protection in line
with the applicable hazard rating. This adds additional cost
to the installation and confuses the end user when they
believed the WaterMarked product would suffice.
Manufacturers need to be aware that even though they
have invented a new pencil and it receives approval as a
pencil, it may also need to meet additional standards before
it is suitable for use in Australia.
A WaterMark approval does not necessarily make the product
suitable for use without additional backflow protection.
1800 816 830
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Looking for a water jetter?
Speak to the experts!
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Contact:
Peter McLennan has been involved with Backflow Prevention in
Australia since the late 1980s. He is the President of the Backflow
Prevention Association of Australia Inc., and Secretary of the
Backflow Prevention Association of Australia Inc. Queensland
Chapter. Visit to find out more about how the
Backflow Prevention Association of Australia Inc. can help you
understand Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention.