Backflow Prevention System

[claimslitigation]

Involved in litigation, where pool water, when pool backwashed, backed up drains in building. The pool drain was connected to the main drain line from the building, which may be against code in CA, but clearly there was no backflow prevention valve working to preclude this water from causing the drainage line from the building to back up.

Thoughts and codes that would apply. What are the possible conditions that were not met that would allow this situation to occur? Is it all just related to the backflow valve? Or are there codes precluding swimming pools from being connected to building drain lines?

Thanks.

"Claimslitigation"

 

[pmover]

determine authority having jurisdiction and to what codes and standards were in place at time of design, construction, and installation.

if CA, then the international mechanical code or the uniform plumbing code MAY likely apply. these docs are available at online sites for a fee.

good luck!
-pmover

 

[ApC2Kp]

claimslitigation,

There are now a number of state and municipal codes available free, including California and cities, at

http://bulk.resource.org/codes.gov/ca.local/

You may find it useful to retain a licensed plumber that is familiar in the local plumbing code, as an expert witness.

The use of a back flow preventer in a building sewer drain line would be unusual in my view. It would tend to be a source of pluggage and problems. There are back flow preventers at tidal pool sewage outfall lines to stop flow during high tide. The use of back flow preventers on the supply of potable water is more common location.