As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, please note that State requirements regarding the need to perform Backflow Prevention Assembly Testing and Customer Service Inspections as they relate to public health services have not changed. These testing and inspection services are still required by state rules and regulations. There is a lot of confusion regarding if these activities are considered “critical functions” and note, each jurisdiction may have their own interpretation related to these activities. Please note that local jurisdictions may have different guidelines or even suspended these activities and BPA testers and CSI’s should check with these local jurisdictions to see how they are handling these services at this time.

We will continue to monitor for any updates and communicate these changes as they become available. At this time the State is encouraging testers to test backflow assemblies as normally required and practice CDC recommendations for hygiene and social distancing.

This letter from EPA authorizes public water systems, their staff, and their suppliers as essential businesses and workers in responding to COVID-19.

Thank you,
SC Tracking Staff