Stream Lining Cross Connection Surveys using Pocket PCs

Gregory M. Pagett, P.E., DEE

AFI 32-1066 requires each Air Force installation to conduct a comprehensive backflow survey every five years to evaluate all facilities and water-using equipment and systems. Trained backflow personnel must identify all existing and potential cross-connections to the potable water system, assess the adequacy of existing backflow protection, and determine the potential need for additional backflow protection.

This typically requires the collection of an appreciable quantity of data on hardcopy forms, which must later be entered into a database. To streamline this process, MACTEC Federal Programs, Inc. (MACTEC) designed a Backflow Prevention Device (BPD) database tailored for the direct entry of data collected during the survey.

The database, used at fifteen USAF Bases around the country, was developed using Microsoft Access® 2000 for the desktop management component and Syware Visual CE® for the PocketPC field collection component. Field data collected using the PocketPC synchronizes directly with the desktop database, eliminating the need to re-enter information from the paper forms. These tools assist base personnel in the continued upkeep and maintenance of their BPD program by allowing for quick and efficient field data collection as well as providing a tool for device management and printing standard Air Force forms, such as AF Form 848. The database was designed to be compatible with the Tri-Services Spatial Data Standards (TSSDS), which allows for integration with the Base GIS systems.

The database allows management of cross-connection information regarding:

Facilities: name, address, point of contact (POC), and POC phone number.

Cross-connections and BPDs: location, floor, room number, manufacturer, model, size, device type, date surveyed, hazard, service connection, back siphonage potential, back pressure potential, pollutant, status, location sketch, digital photograph, additional comments, and testing data.

Water Customers and Surveyors: name, address, business type, POC, and POC phone number.

This paper reviews cross connection and backflow prevention device requirements, past survey methodologies, and presents MACTEC'S Water Tool alternative.

Click here to request a copy of this article in its entirety