Ohio backflow testing rules
OAC 3745-95-02(C), Ohio EPA, effective Oct 10 2022.
Who sets the rules in Ohio
OAC 3745-95-03(B)(1); community systems may substitute a documented alternate methodology (3745-95-03(B)(2)).
Sources: Every public water system must run a backflow prevention and cross-connection control program; Supplier does periodic on-site investigations of premises at least every five years
Is an annual test required?
OAC 3745-95-06(C)(3): applies to containment-principle backflow preventers required by rules 3745-95-04 and 3745-95-05 (hazard premises and auxiliary-water cases), at the consumer's expense.
OAC 3745-95-06(C)(3).
Source: Required containment backflow preventers must be inspected and tested at least every twelve months
Which properties need a backflow preventer
OAC 3745-95-04(B)(5), unless the director determines no hazard exists. Bulk water loading and temporary hydrant use are also listed.
OAC 3745-95-04(C)(1).
OAC 3745-95-03(A)(2).
OAC 3745-95-05(D): for water-only residential-type irrigation with no pumps or additives.
OAC 3745-95-05(D).
OAC 3745-95-05(C), where an auxiliary water system is a secondary source for a fire system.
Sources: Community systems: listed facility types include hospitals, laboratories, car washes, food plants; Residential premises: no initial assessment per premises if the supplier has an alternate method; Residential-type irrigation: pressure vacuum breaker allowed, testing rule still applies
Who may do the test
OAC 3745-95-06(C)(3). No state tester licence is named in the rule; each supplier approves its testers.
How the test report is filed
OAC 3745-95-06(C)(5). No deadline stated.
OAC 3745-95-06(C)(6).
Source: Consumer keeps test records and makes them available to the supplier
If a test is missed
OAC 3745-95-08(A); service is not restored until the defect is fixed to the supplier's satisfaction.
OAC 3745-95-08(A)(1).
Source: Supplier must deny or discontinue service after reasonable notice
Common questions
Is backflow testing required every year in Ohio?
OAC 3745-95-06(C)(3): applies to containment-principle backflow preventers required by rules 3745-95-04 and 3745-95-05 (hazard premises and auxiliary-water cases), at the consumer's expense.