BP Journal | IAPMO BPI

Protecting our most precious resource

A dedicated resource for professionals in the plumbing industry’s expert sector, offering comprehensive coverage of the policies, practices, technologies, and standards essential to protecting the public water supply.

Our articles provide plumbing industry professionals with comprehensive coverage of backflow incident reports, updates to plumbing codes and drinking water regulations, product performance improvements, and important industry events. We also share practical guidance and resources for establishing and maintaining cross-connection control programs, along with other essential topics focused on protecting the public water supply.

Should Backflow Testing and Certification Be Part of Your Plumbing Business in 2026?

20 February 2026

Backflow prevention testing remains one of the most critical — and often overlooked — services in the plumbing, mechanical, fire protection and water industries. As regulations tighten and public awareness of water safety continues to grow, backflow testing and certification are no longer optional add-ons. In 2026, they are essential services for any contractor serious about protecting customers, complying with plumbing codes, and growing a sustainable business.

Why Don’t We Follow the Plumbing Code?

20 February 2026

Backflow Prevention Installation Mistakes That Still Persist in 2026. After traveling across the United States conducting cross-connection control training, performing surveys, and answering questions about problematic backflow prevention installations, one issue remains surprisingly common: failure to follow the adopted plumbing code.

Are Cross-Connection Control Programs Truly Protecting Public Health in 2026?

20 February 2026

The Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was enacted in 1974 to protect public health by regulating the nation’s public drinking water systems. Under the SDWA, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in partnership with state primacy agencies, establishes and enforces drinking water quality standards to ensure safe water is delivered to the public.

Backflow Protection in Fire Protection Systems: What the Codes Require in 2026

20 February 2026

A common question in the plumbing, fire protection, and water utility industries is whether backflow prevention assemblies are necessary on fire sprinkler systems. Related questions quickly follow: Are backflow preventers required on residential fire protection systems? Do combined domestic and fire systems need protection? Is backflow protection worth the pressure and volume loss? Have fire protection systems actually caused documented backflow incidents?

Backflow Prevention Issues in Commercial and Residential Settings in 2026

20 February 2026

Water drawn from natural sources — rivers, lakes, streams, and wells — often contains microorganisms, dissolved chemicals, and suspended particles. Before it can be used as potable water, process water, or system water for heating, cooling, or irrigation, it must be treated to reduce contaminants to safe and appropriate levels.