What is defined as a physical connection between a potable water supply and any non-potable water source?

A physical connection between a potable water supply and any non-potable water source is referred to as a cross connection. This term is crucial in plumbing and public health because it represents a potential pathway for contaminants to enter the clean drinking water supply. Cross connections can occur in various ways, such as through improperly installed plumbing fixtures, hose attachments, or irrigation systems that are connected directly to the potable water supply without proper backflow prevention measures.

Understanding the concept of a cross connection is vital for ensuring the safety of drinking water. Regulations typically require that any such connections be identified and properly managed to prevent backflow, which could lead to contamination. Backflow prevention devices and air gaps are commonly employed in plumbing systems to mitigate the risks associated with cross connections.

The other terms provided do not accurately describe the scenario. Back pressure refers to the pressure that can push contaminated water back into the potable system, but it does not define a physical connection. A contamination point is a more general term that could denote any location where pollutants could enter a water supply, but it lacks the specific connection aspect. Connection breach suggests a failure or error in a connection, but it does not specifically relate to the concept of a physical connection between potable and non-potable sources. Thus, the definition