A cross-connection is an actual or potential connection between any part of a potable water system and any other environment that contains other substances that would allow such substances to enter the potable water system. Cross-connection control programs are intended to reduce the risk of contamination or pollution of the public water system. This fourth edition of AWWA Manual M14, Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control, provides both technical and general guidance on the recommended procedures and practices for developing, operating, and maintaining a cross-connection control and backflow prevention program.

This edition includes a new chapter on conducting a cross-connection control survey and expands the discussions on assessing the risks and preventing backflow. A greatly expanded appendix details how to test most backflow-prevention devices. Other issues covered include backflow prevention principles, assembly, application, installation, and maintenance; health and legal concerns; and detailed information on potential and real hazards. Seventy additional pages were added from the previous edition.

This manual is intended for use by all professionals charged with protecting the public water supply with proper backflow prevention and cross-connection control programs. This 4th edition provides greater insight to the roles of the plumbing, fire protection, irrigation and other related industries.