Orlando Utilities Commission Backflow Testing Requirements

Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC) — The Reliable One — operates the Cross-Connection Control Program for properties connected to the OUC water system in Orlando and parts of Orange County and Osceola County. The program protects the potable water supply from backflow contamination through proper device installation and annual testing.

OUC's program follows Florida Administrative Code 62-555.360 requirements and OUC's service rules. The utility serves approximately 250,000 water customers in the greater Orlando area. OUC's Cross-Connection Control team conducts hazard surveys, issues testing requirements, and tracks compliance through their customer account system.

OUC requires annual backflow testing for all properties with installed backflow prevention assemblies. This includes:

• Commercial buildings with fire sprinkler systems, boilers, or irrigation
• Theme parks, hotels, and hospitality properties (a significant category in Orlando)
• Restaurants and food service establishments
• Medical and dental facilities
• Industrial and manufacturing properties
• Multi-family residential properties with fire suppression or shared irrigation
• Properties with RPZ assemblies, double check valve assemblies (DCVA), or pressure vacuum breakers (PVB)
• Car washes, laundromats, and facilities with chemical dispensing
• Properties with reclaimed water connections in addition to potable OUC service

Backflow testers in the OUC service area must hold a valid certification from a Florida-recognized certifying organization. Accepted certifications include ABPA, AWWA, ASSE, and the University of Florida TREEO Center.

Testers must complete a 40-hour training program and pass written and hands-on examinations. Test gauges must be calibrated annually, and testers must provide proof of current certification and gauge calibration. OUC maintains a database of certified testers who regularly submit reports to their system.

OUC requires test reports to be submitted to their Cross-Connection Control division. Reports can be submitted through OUC's online compliance system, and most certified testers in the Orlando area submit electronically on behalf of property owners.

Reports must include complete device details (type, manufacturer, model, serial number, size), all test results, the tester's certification number, and gauge calibration date. OUC sends compliance confirmation to the property owner's account when a passing report is received.

OUC requires annual testing of all backflow prevention assemblies. Testing deadlines are based on the anniversary of the previous test date. OUC sends initial testing reminders approximately 60 days before the deadline.

Properties that miss the deadline receive follow-up notices. Continued non-compliance can result in administrative fees applied to the OUC account and potential water service disconnection in accordance with OUC's service rules and Florida regulations.

Failed assemblies must be repaired and re-tested within 30 days. The passing re-test report must be submitted to OUC within that timeframe.