Backflow Prevention Device Testing — Safe Work Method Statement
Safe Work Method Statement for field testing, maintenance and repair of testable backflow prevention devices such as RPZ valves and double check valves on water services, fire services and irrigation systems.
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Testing a backflow prevention device is usually not high risk construction work, so a SWMS is not legally required for most tests. Many facility managers and principal contractors still ask for one, and the job carries hazards worth planning for, especially when devices are in pits, plant rooms or on fire services. If the device is in a pit that meets the definition of a confined space, or you have to work in a road, the work needs extra controls and may become HRCW.
Testable devices such as reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valves, double check valves and testable vacuum breakers must be tested when installed and then at least annually, or more often if the water authority requires. Testing must be done by a licensed plumber who holds the backflow prevention accreditation or endorsement required in your state or territory, using a test kit that is in calibration. Results are usually lodged with the water authority or local council. AS/NZS 3500.1 sets the requirements for backflow protection on water services.
The hazards are specific. Many devices sit in in-ground pits with heavy lids, standing water and sometimes poor air. Shutting down a fire service backflow device can leave a building without sprinkler or hydrant protection, so impairment must be arranged with the building owner and the fire protection contractor. RPZ relief valves can discharge suddenly, and the water from the downstream side of a device on a high-hazard service (chemical dosing, medical, industrial process) may be contaminated. Test fittings carry mains pressure and can blow off.
Your SWMS must cover access to the device, isolation and notice to building users, fire service impairment where relevant, the test sequence, handling of contaminated water, and return to service.
Customise this template with the site address, device type, size and location, the hazard rating of the connection, whether it serves a fire service, the impairment arrangements, the test kit and calibration date, and the tester's licence and accreditation numbers.
Personal Protective Equipment
Risk Assessment
1.Pre-test notification and site access
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Building left without fire protection when a fire service device is isolated | High | For fire service devices, arrange the impairment with the building owner or manager and the fire protection contractor before the test. Notify the alarm monitoring provider as required, minimise the isolation time, and do not leave site until the service is restored and confirmed. | Low | Licensed Plumber / Building Manager |
| Water shut-off affecting occupants or critical processes | Moderate | Give the building manager notice of the shutdown time and duration. Check for processes that cannot lose water (medical, cooling towers, boilers) and agree how they will be managed. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
2.Accessing devices in pits, plant rooms and enclosures
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manual handling injury lifting pit lids or working bent over in pits | Moderate | Use a lid lifter for heavy lids. Kneel on a knee pad rather than bending for long periods. Do not reach into a pit to work at full stretch; use extension test hoses. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
| Poor air or water in deep pits | High | Work from the surface where the device can be reached. Do not enter a pit that is deep, enclosed or poorly ventilated without assessing it as a possible confined space; if it is one, entry needs a permit and a separate SWMS. Pump out standing water before work. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
| Falls into open pits or struck by vehicles in car parks | Moderate | Barricade open pits and park the vehicle to shield the work area. Use cones and a sign in car parks and wear high-visibility clothing. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
3.Field testing the device
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test fittings or hoses blowing off under mains pressure | Moderate | Check test kit hoses and fittings before connecting. Open test cocks slowly with the hose connected and pointed away from the face. Wear safety glasses. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
| Contact with contaminated water from high-hazard services | Moderate | Identify the hazard on the downstream side before testing. Wear nitrile gloves and glasses. Direct relief valve discharge and test water to a drain, not onto people, electrical equipment or garden beds treated as potable. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
| Inaccurate results due to uncalibrated test kit | Moderate | Use a test kit within its calibration period and carry the certificate. Follow the test procedure for the device type in order and record each reading. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
4.Repair or replacement of failed components
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hand injury from springs and covers under tension | Moderate | Fully isolate and depressurise the device before removing covers. Use the manufacturer's tools for spring-loaded check covers and follow the service manual. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
| Device returned to service without protection | High | Retest any device after repair. Do not bypass a failed device to restore water; tag it and notify the owner and water authority as required. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
5.Return to service and reporting
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water hammer or pressure surge when restoring supply | Moderate | Open isolation valves slowly, downstream first then upstream as the procedure requires, and bleed air from the service. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
| Fire service left isolated after testing | High | Confirm all fire service valves are open and locked or strapped in the open position. Tell the building manager and monitoring provider the service is restored, and record this on the test report. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
| Test not lodged, leaving the owner non-compliant | Low | Fill in the test report and tag the device with the test date and result. Lodge the result with the water authority or council as required in your area. | Low | Licensed Plumber |
Relevant Codes of Practice
Worker Acknowledgement
By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to comply with this Safe Work Method Statement.