PWSB
RULES AND REGULATIONS
January 24, 2007
In accordance with charter amendment, Chapter l269, these revisions to the
Rules and Regulations are hereby enacted by the Pawtucket Water Supply
Board on April 10, 2007.
Made effective by Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission Order No. XXXXX,
Docket Number XXXX.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION
GENERAL INFORMATION
G.1 Business
Office
G.2 Office Hours
G.3 Questions and Complaints
G.4 Emergency Service
G.5 Employees
G.6 Service Area: Distribution System and Service Pipes
G.7 Rates
G.8 Buying/Selling Property
G.9 High Consumption: Notices
G.10 Customers' Rights
1. WATER BILLS
1.1 Billing
Frequency
1.2 Property Owners' Responsibilities
1.3 Customer Account Information
1.4 Charges
1.5 Payment of Bills
2. METERS
2.1
General
2.2 Ownership, Installation and Maintenance of Meters
2.3 Size, Type and Location of Meter
2.4 Seals, Damage, Tampering
2.5 Meter Testing and Repairs
2.6 Remote Meter Reading
2.7 Special Metering
3. SERVICE PIPES
3.1
Application
3.2 Service Installations, Charges
3.3 Ownership of Service Pipe
3.4 Customer Service Pipes
3.5 Service Valves
3.6 Unauthorized Operations
3.7 Repairs to Customers' Piping and Fixtures
3.8 Special Service Installations
4. TEMPORARY SERVICES
4.1 Construction
Services
4.2 Hydrant Supplies
5. MAIN PIPE
5.1 Transmission
Mains
5.2 Distribution Mains,
Extensions
6. FIRE SUPPLIES
6.1
General
6.2 Drawings
6.3 Approval of Installation
6.4 Annual Charges, Water Use
6.5 Separate Connections , Use of Water
6.6 Inspections, Tests
6.7 Meters, Valves
6.8 Backflow Prevention
6.9 Fire Pumps
7. FIRE HYDRANTS
7.1 Hydrant
Installations
7.2 Hydrant Ownership
7.3 Use of Hydrants
7.4 Obstruction or
Tampering with Hydrants
8. SOURCE OF SUPPLY
8.1 Reservoir Descriptions
8.2 Terminal Reservoirs
8.3 Water Withdrawal
8.4 Trespassing
9. RESTRICTIONS ON
WATER USE
9.1 Air Conditioning
Equipment
9.2 Water Shortages, Droughts
10. CROSS-CONNECTION
CONTROL AND BACKFLOW PREVENTION
10.1
Definitions
10.2 Water Supply Board Responsibility
10.3 Consumers' Responsibilities
10.4 Regulation of Cross Connections
10.5 Cross-Connection Permit Required
10.6 Location of Protective Devices
10.7 Type of Backflow Preventer Required
10.8 Installation Practices
10.9 Inspection, Testing and Overhauling or Devices
10.10 Cross-Connection
Control in Existing Facilities
11. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
11.1 Pump
Connection
11.2 Service Interruption
11.3 Resale of Water
11.4 Inspections
11.5 Beginning and Ending Service
11.6 Severability
11.7 Generic Clause
12. VIOLATIONS/PENALTIES
12.1 Violation of Rules
12.2 Discontinued Water Service
12.3 Delinquent Bills
12.4 Legal
Action
12.5 Termination or Denial of Service
12.6 Discontinuance or
Denial of Service
12.7 Fraud and
Endangerment
Appendix
A – Ten State Standards
Appendix B—Wintertime
moratorium on water service installations
GENERAL
INFORMATION
RULES AND REGULATIONS
The following rules and
regulations, and all subsequent changes, amendments and additions thereto shall
constitute a part of the contract with every person, municipality, corporation
and property owner supplied with water and other services by the Pawtucket
Water Supply Board. Acceptance of this contract and all conditions thereto
shall be acknowledged by taking of water or service by the customer.
Whenever the term PWSB
appears in these rules and regulations, it shall be construed to mean the
Pawtucket Water Supply Board, its members, it’s Chief Engineer, or any of its
duly authorized employees, singly or collectively.
Every customer is entitled
to a copy of these rules and regulations and the prevailing tariffs of the PWSB
upon request to the Customer Service Office. The Rules and Regulations are
posted on PWSB’s web site located at www.pwsb.org. All customers should
read these rules and regulations carefully to understand their rights and responsibilities.
Failure to know or understand the rules and regulations shall not be
accepted as an excuse for violation.
G.1 BUSINESS OFFICE:
The offices of the PWSB are located in the Branch Street Pumping Station, 85
Branch Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, telephone (40l) 729-5000.
G.2 OFFICE HOURS:
Daily except Saturday, Sunday and legal holidays:
Hours
: 7:30 a.m. 4:00 p.m. daily.
Emergency personnel are on
duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
G.3 QUESTIONS AND
COMPLAINTS should be directed to the PWSB by calling (40l) 729-5000 or in
person at the business office. All complaints will be promptly and thoroughly
investigated.
G.4 EMERGENCY SERVICE
G.4.1 Pawtucket and
Cumberland: The PWSB has emergency service crews on duty 24 hours every day
of the year. Emergencies in Pawtucket and the Valley Falls portion of
Cumberland served by the PWSB should be reported by calling (40l)729-5000.
G.4.2 Central Falls:
The City of Central Falls has its own crews to maintain its distribution system.
Emergencies in Central Falls should be reported directly to the City of Central
Falls at (401) 727-7466.
G.5 EMPLOYEES: PWSB
employees are issued photo identification cards and distinctive uniforms. If
there is any question regarding the identity of anyone claiming to be an
employee of the PWSB, please call the Business Office for verification.
G.6 SERVICE AREA:
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM AND SERVICE PIPES
G.6.1 The PWSB primarily
supplies water throughout the Cities of Pawtucket and Central Falls and the
Valley Falls section of the Town of Cumberland. There are other areas that are
served on a case by case basis.
G.6.2 Pawtucket:
The distribution system is owned and maintained by the PWSB.
G.6.3 Cumberland:
The distribution system in the Valley Falls portion of the town lying south of
Marshall Avenue and the Cumberland Terrace area is owned and maintained by the
PWSB. The remaining pipes in Cumberland are owned and maintained by the Town of
Cumberland Water Department. (401) 658-0666
G.6.4 Central Falls:
The PWSB owns and maintains only certain large diameter transmission mains in
Central Falls and the connections to them. The remainder of the distribution
system is owned and maintained by the City of Central Falls at (401) 727-7466.
G.6.5 Service Pipes: The PWSB owns
and maintains the service pipe between the street main and the curb stop which
extends approximately 18 inches beyond the curb line or pavement edge in
Pawtucket and Cumberland. The City of Central Falls owns and maintains the
service pipe between the main up to and including the curb stop which extends
approximately 18 inches beyond the curb line or pavement edge within the City
of Central Fall s.
For large services (
4-inch and above ) that are connected to the main without a curb stop, the
service pipe limits will be as described above.
G.6.6 Building Service:
The service pipe from the connection after the curb stop to the building,
and all piping within the building is installed, maintained and repaired by the
property owner or through a plumber licensed by the State of Rhode Island.
For large services (
4-inch and above ) that are connected to the main without a curb stop, the
service pipe limits will be as described above.
G.7 Rates: All
water and services are furnished at rates in accordance with the tariffs of the
PWSB, as approved by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission. Copies of
the tariffs are available for inspection at the PWSB Customer Service Office,
85 Branch Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Copies of the rates and other
customer information may be obtained upon request at the Customer Service
Office at 729-9050.
G.8 BUYING/SELLING
PROPERTY
G.8.1 Notice: It is
the responsibility of the homeowner to notify the PWSB Customer Service Office
before selling your property. The property owner is responsible for all water
charges until the PWSB is notified of the property transfer.
G.8.2 Settlement of
Bills: Although the PWSB will not prorate bills between old and new owners,
the Customer Service staff will assist property owners in settling bills
between the parties if a current water meter reading is provided.
G.9 HIGH CONSUMPTION:
NOTICES: When meter readings indicate water use above normal, the PWSB may
send a notice to the owner advising him or her of the change. Failure of the
PWSB to send such a notice shall not relieve the customer of their
responsibility to maintain his or her fixtures and piping in a satisfactory
condition and to repair leaks promptly.
G.10 CUSTOMERS' RIGHTS:
Customers of public utilities have certain rights regarding service,
termination protection, etc. These rights are generally protected by the Rhode
Island Public Utilities Commission, the Division of Public Utilities and the
State Attorney General. Customers will be advised of their rights in any notice
given them. Many of these rights appear on the back of water bills.
SECTION
I. WATER BILLS
1.1 BILLING FREQUENCY
1.1.1 Residential and
small commercial consumers (meter sizes 5/8 inch through 1 inch) shall receive
bills for domestic water service every three months on a staggered basis.
General location of the property within the service area shall determine the
months in which bills are rendered.
1.1.2 Industrial
and large commercial accounts with meter sizes 1 inch and larger shall be
billed quarterly in February, May, August, and November.
1.1.3 Large industrial,
wholesale, and public agency accounts may be scheduled for monthly billing.
1.1.4 Fire protection
service accounts shall be billed once per year during January.
1.1.5 Special services,
repairs, and miscellaneous charges shall be invoiced at the time the charge is
incurred.
1.2 PROPERTY OWNERS'
RESPONSIBILITIES
1.2.1 Change of
Ownership: Property owners shall notify the PWSB Customer Service Office at
the time property ownership changes, or when the owner's mailing address
changes.
1.2.2 Payment for
water and services shall be the responsibility of the property owner of record
as of the date of the billing.
1.2.3 New property
owners using water at their premises without filing an application for service
may be subject to penalties provided by state law for unauthorized use of
water. Water service may be discontinued from any customer who fails to file an
application for service.
1.2.4 Unpaid water
bills are immediate liens, and run with the property, in accordance with
Chapter 39-15-12 of the General Laws of the State of Rhode Island (1956). All
unpaid bills should be settled between buyer and seller when the property is
transferred. The PWSB does not send closing bills or prorate charges between
owners.
1.3 CUSTOMER ACCOUNT
INFORMATION
1.3.1 Requests for
information on account status, notices, rates, rules and regulations and other
customer information may be made in writing, in person, or by telephone to the
PWSB Customer Service Office, 85 Branch Street, Pawtucket, Rhode Island 02860,
telephone (401)729-5000.
1.3.2 Requests for
certification regarding bills, liens and customer account status must be made
in writing to the Customer Service Office.
1.4 CHARGES
1.4.1 Water:
Charges for water shall be based on metered consumption by the premises. Water
consumption shall be measured in cubic feet, and billed in units of 100 cubic
feet (CCF or HCF) in accordance with the tariffs.
1.4.2 Customer Service
Charge: A customer service charge shall be assessed against all active
accounts, and shall be calculated in proportion to the size of the meter (s) on
the service in accordance with the tariffs.
1.4.3 Fire Protection:
Charges for fire service shall be calculated in proportion to the size of the
fire service size at the curb line in accordance with the tariffs.
1.4.4 Other Charges:
Charges for merchandise, construction services, meter repairs, and other
special services shall be billed in accordance with the appropriate provisions
of the rules and regulations and applicable tariffs.
1.5 PAYMENT OF BILLS
1.5.1 Due Date: All
bills for water and service are payable when rendered, and become delinquent
after 30 days. Delinquent bills shall incur a penalty at the interest rate in
accordance with the approved tariffs on the outstanding balance, calculated
from the date of the invoice or the date of last payment to the current date.
1.5.2 Payment Location:
Bills may be paid by mail to the address shown on the bill, or in person to the
City Collection Office, Pawtucket City Hall, 137 Roosevelt Avenue, Pawtucket,
Rhode Island and at other locations as may be designated by the PWSB.
SECTION
2. METERS
2.1 GENERAL
2.1.1 Except for Public
fire protection or for other special purposes, all water supplied by the PWSB
shall be measured by approved water meters before use, and charges for such
water will be billed to the property owner, whether the water is used or
wasted.
2.1.2 Customers are
advised to read their water meters frequently to detect leaks or water waste
early and to avoid large water bills. Information regarding meter reading is
available from the PWSB Customer Service Office.
2.2 OWNERSHIP,
INSTALLATION AND MAINTENANCE OF METERS
2.2.1 Installation:
All meters, 5/8 inch through two inches, shall be installed by PWSB employees
and shall be owned by the PWSB. Meters larger than two inch shall be installed
by the property owner through a plumber licensed by the State of Rhode
Island. PWSB employees shall inspect the meter after installation.
2.2.2 Seals: All
meters shall be sealed by an employee of the PWSB. Presence of a properly
placed seal shall indicate approval of the meter and its installation by the
PWSB.
2.2.3 Large Meters:
All meters larger than the 2 inch size shall be owned and maintained by the
customer. Sizes 5/8 inch through 2 inch shall be purchased directly from the
PWSB and shall be installed by its employees. Sizes larger than two inch shall
be purchased directly from the meter supplier and shall be installed by a
plumber licensed by the State of Rhode Island. All meters must be of a type
approved by the PWSB.
2.2.4 Removal: Only
employees of the PWSB may remove a water meter once it is set.
2.3 SIZE, TYPE AND
LOCATION OF METER
2.3.1 Selection:
Under most circumstances, residential properties containing up to five
residence units will require a 5/8 inch meter. However, the PWSB reserves the
right to select the size, quantity and types of meters to be installed on any service,
using information supplied by the customer as to intended water use patterns.
Lacking such information, the PWSB shall use its best judgment in selecting
meters, and the customer shall agree that modifications to the metering
configuration may be needed after water use patterns are established and
evaluated with the original selection. All such modifications shall be made at
the customer's expense.
2.3.2 Types: Meters
may be of the disc type (sizes 5/8 inch through 2 inch), compound type (2 inch
through 6 inch), or turbine type (2 inch through 12 inch), depending on
anticipated usage patterns. Meters shall fully comply with the specifications
of the PWSB.
2.3.3 Location, General:
The meter shall be located on the customer service pipe as near as possible to
the point at which the service enters the building , and installed in
accordance with the current PWSB standard detail for “typical meter
installation”. Meters shall be installed horizontally, with proper support
as necessary in a location in which it will be accessible for reading,
inspection and maintenance. A valve will be placed both before the meter
and after the backflow preventer device. (See Section 3).
2.3.4 Meters larger
than 2-inch size shall be located in the building closest to the street
line, providing the building is within 75 feet of the curb line of the street.
If the nearest building is more than 75 feet from the street, the meter shall
be installed just inside the customer's property line in an above ground water
tight vandal proof structure/vault provided and maintained by the owner.
The meter vault shall be designed to keep the meter from freezing, and shall be
approved by the PWSB prior to installation. The meter vault shall meet the following
requirements:
Meter Vault
An above
ground vault is required when the meter is larger than 2-inch and extends over
75 feet from the curb stop to the point that the service line enters the
building, The meter vault shall be an above ground structure pre-approved by
the PWSB that meets the following specifications:
Above
Ground Meter Vault Specification:
1. Vault interior dimensions shall be sized
by the manufacturer based on the required interior components for the customer
service.
2. Vault shall be an insulated heated
enclosure of aluminum construction and shall comply with ASSE 1060, Class I. It
shall be capable of maintaining a minimum temperature of 40º F (4ºC) and shall
be supported by a concrete pad as required for the installation and in
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. It shall be manufactured by
Hot Box or Hydrocowl, Inc. (Safe- T- Cover) or approved equal.
3. Vaults located in open areas such as in
public parks, playgrounds or ball fields shall be enclosed by a 6- foot high
chain link fence and locking gate in accordance with RIDOT Standard 31.2.
Underground
vaults may be permitted in accordance with Section 10.8.2i of the PWSB’s Rules
& Regulations. Should the PWSB permit an underground vault, the vault must
meet the following specifications:
Below
Ground Meter Vault Specification:
1. Vault interior dimensions shall be sized
by the manufacturer based on the required interior components for the customer
service, and shall be approved by PWSB.
2. Vaults shall be of pre-cast concrete
construction as manufactured by Rotondo & Sons, Inc., or approved equal,
with construction joints sealed with 1-inch diameter butyl rubber, neoprene or
equivalent.
3. The vault must be of watertight
construction. Vaults shall be so designed that all joints and corners are
waterproof and shall be made waterproof after construction by use of sealants,
epoxies, or other approved methods.
4. If located in a roadway, driveway or
parking lot, the vault shall be designed to support the overhead fill, any
surcharge and an AASHTO H-20 traffic loading.
5. The vault opening and manhole cover must
be at least 27 inches in diameter and made watertight.
6. The manhole frame and cover shall be a
watertight Type “BW” frame with a “Seal Tite” cover stamped with “WATER” as
manufactured by Lebaron Foundry Inc. The “Seal Tite” cover shall be supplied
with a continuous, self- sealing gasket and concealed, non- penetrating pick
holes.
7. The manhole frame and cover shall be
adjusted to grade using Infra- Riser Multi- Purpose Rubber Adjustment Risers as
manufactured by GNR Technologies or approved equal and shall be installed using
an adhesive/sealant per the manufacturer’s recommendation in order to create a
watertight seal.
8. The foot- hold inserts must be of steel,
aluminum, or other material approved by the PWSB, set at twelve inch intervals,
and must be installed so that the top foot- hold is within twelve inches of the
vault opening and the bottom foot-hold is within twelve inches of the vault
floor.
9. Sumps with a gravity drain line or sump
pump are required and shall conform to Section 10.8.5f of the PWSB’s Rules
& Regulations. The floor of the vault shall be pitched to sump.
10. All piping
penetrations through the vault walls shall be watertight sealed using a “Model
C” modular seal assembly as manufactured by PSI- Thunderline/ Link- Seal in
accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2.3.5 Meters through
2-inch size shall be inside the building nearest the street regardless of
its distance from the street.
2.3.6 Protection:
Meters shall be protected at all times from damage due to freezing, vandalism ,
accident and also by an approved backflow preventive device.
2.4 SEALS, DAMAGE,
TAMPERING
2.4.1 Seals: All
meters shall be sealed by the PWSB when set.
2.4.2 Damage: A
meter damaged by frost, vandalism, hot water or causes other than normal wear
shall be repaired or replaced at the expense of the property owner. A service
charge shall also be assessed by the PWSB.
2.4.3 Missing Seal:
A missing or damaged meter seal shall be considered prima facie evidence
that the meter has been tampered with. Any person who tampers with or defaces a
meter to prevent proper registration of water consumed or who breaks any seal
placed by the PWSB shall be subject to prosecution in accordance with the
provisions of State law.
2.5 METER TESTING AND
REPAIRS
2.5.1 New Meters:
Every meter is carefully tested before it is initially installed, and before
being reinstalled after it has been removed for repair or any other
reason. Large meters purchased directly from suppliers shall be tested by
the manufacturer before shipment. A copy of the manufacturer's test certificate
shall be submitted to the PWSB prior to installation of the meter.
2.5.2 Existing Meters:
All meters shall be tested periodically to assure continued accuracy, at least
as frequently as required by the regulations of the Rhode Island Public
Utilities Commission.
a. Larger meters, owned by
the property owner, shall be tested in accordance with the following schedule.
The owner shall bear the costs of periodic testing; the cost of repair,
recalibration, and retesting of meters found to be inaccurate shall be borne by
the owner of the meter.
Meter Size
Maximum Testing Interval
2 inch
5 years
3 inch
2 years
4 inch and
larger
l year
Meters may be tested more
frequently if in the opinion of the PWSB, the meter has been subject to duty
that might cause it to become inaccurate.
2.5.3 Accuracy: All
meters shall be required to measure water flows accurately, with an acceptable
registration being within the range of 98% to 102% of actual flow. Tests and
calculations shall be performed according to the standard of the Rhode Island
Public Utilities Commission.
2.5.4 Customer-Requested
Test: Should a property owner question the accuracy of the water meter, the
owner may request a special meter test by the PWSB, in writing. The property
owner shall place a deposit with the Board, in an amount sufficient to cover
the costs of the testing. A licensed plumber shall remove the meter and bring
it to the PWSB for testing. The PWSB shall test the meter, and shall then
make any repairs that may be necessary to bring the meter to its standards. The
plumber shall reset the meter as soon as possible after repairs are complete. After
the meter is reset, the PWSB will inspect the meter and seal it.
a. Fast Meters: If
the meter test shows that the meter has been registering in excess of 102% of
actual water flow (calculated in accordance with Rhode Island Public Utilities
Commission procedures), the deposit shall be refunded and the PWSB shall pay
the costs of removing and resetting the meter. The customer's water bill for
the current billing period shall be adjusted downward by the difference between
the calculated registration and 100%, and the meter shall be adjusted to
register within the proper tolerance.
b. Slow Meters: If
the meter test shows that the meter has been registering less than 98% of the
actual water flow (calculated in accordance with Rhode Island Public Utilities
Commission procedures), the deposit will be retained to cover the cost of
testing. The customer's water bill for the current billing period shall be
adjusted upward by the difference between the calculated registration and 100%,
and the meter shall be adjusted to register within the proper tolerance.
c. Correct Meters:
If the meter test shows that the meter has been registering within the range,
98% to 102% of the actual water flow, the deposit will be retained to cover the
cost of testing. No adjustments will be made to the customer's bill or to the
meter.
d. Repair Costs:
The cost of repairing meters requiring adjustment shall be billed as follows:
(1) Defective meters 5/8
inch through 2 inch will be replaced by the PWSB.
(2) Repair or replacement
meters larger than 2 inch - shall be born by the owner.
e. Referee Test:
Upon application, the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities will conduct a
referee test of the customer's meter, in accordance with its regulations.
2.5.5 Meter Repairs:
The PWSB may order the owner of any meter that is not registering or that has
been damaged to have the meter repaired. The owner shall have the meter removed
or repaired within 25 days of receipt of such order. Meters through the 2-inch
size shall be returned to the PWSB for repair; larger sizes will be repaired by
the owner. All costs of removal, repair, retesting, and reinstallation
shall be borne by the owner of the meter.
2.5.6 Water Bills:
If a meter fails to register or has been removed for repairs, testing or other
purposes during a billing period, the bill shall be estimated based on the
average daily consumption rate for the previous three year period.
2.5.7 If any meter larger
than 5/8 inch size is found to be unserviceable due to obsolescence, unavailability
of repair parts, or cost of repair higher than replacement cost, the owner of
the meter shall be directed to replace the meter. The owner shall, within 25
days of receipt of such notice, provide evidence to the PWSB that a replacement
meter has been ordered. The PWSB shall be notified immediately when the meter
is received, and shall inspect and seal the meter installation.
2.6 REMOTE METER
READING
2.6.1 Encoder Required:
All metered services shall be equipped with an encoding device that permits
reading the meter from outside the building. The device shall be installed by
the PWSB.
2.6.2 Meter Replacement:
A remote device shall be installed at any time it becomes necessary to replace
an existing meter.
2.6.3 Damaged Meters:
A remote reading device shall be installed at the customer's expense wherever
there is evidence of damage to a meter resulting from the negligent or willful
acts of the customer and/or agents, tenants, invitees or licensees.
2.7 SPECIAL METERING
Service and meter
installations for condominiums, mobile homes, trailer parks, public parks,
strip malls, planned unit developments, and federal, state and municipal
housing projects shall conform to design requirements established by the PWSB
staff on a case-by-case basis. Detailed plans, specifications (designed and
stamped by a registered professional engineer) shall be submitted to the
PWSB for review and approval. Unless specific approval is given for
special metering configurations, services and meters shall comply with other
requirements of these rules and regulations and PWSB standards as outlined in
the design checklist for project review.
SECTION
3. SERVICE PIPES
3.1 APPLICATION
3.1. New Services:
Any person who desires water service to their property shall make application
on standard forms available at the Customer Service Office of the PWSB located
at 85 Branch Street. The application must state fully and truly the purpose for
which the water is to be used, together with the proper legal description of
the property and the official town or city street and number of the premises to
be supplied. The applicant shall also furnish such other information as may be
necessary for the PWSB to determine the water supply requirements of the
applicant, including, but not limited to, a site plan of the premises. The
application shall be accompanied by the payment of the prevailing fees and
charges as set forth in the Rules and Regulations and in the tariffs.
3.1.2a Existing
Services: Any person desiring to restore water service to any property
which has been previously disconnected from the Pawtucket Water Supply system
shall apply for service and pay the prevailing fees and charges as set forth
above. If the property contains existing plumbing work, the applicant shall
furnish a certification from a licensed plumber that the piping has been
inspected and updated to current plumbing code standards.
3.1.2b Shared Service:
Any property owner requesting the subdivision of a parcel with more than
one building being supplied by a single water service connection at the street
shall be required to provide a separate water service connection at the street
for each building.
3.1.3 Change of
Ownership: Any person purchasing property already served by the PWSB shall
make application for transfer of the service in the name of the new owner
immediately upon closing of the property transfer.
3.1.4 Developer-installed
Services: Any developer installing service to vacant lots as part of a
water main extension project shall file an application for each such service in
the developer’s name, as provided in Section 5.2.6.
3.2 SERVICE
INSTALLATIONS, CHARGES
3.2.1 Installation:
Service pipes are installed by the PWSB from the distribution main in the
street to the curb stop 18 inches from the curb line, except in Central Falls
where the City of Central Falls installs the service pipes.
3.2.2 Installation
Charge: The PWSB shall charge an application/service installation charge
which will fully reimburse the PWSB for all costs incurred in providing water
service to the property, including account set-up, engineering, service
installation and surface restoration. The charges may vary among the
communities served.
3.2.3 These charges shall
apply whether a new service pipe is installed or a "vacant lot"
service or abandoned service is to be utilized.
3.2.4 Quotation:
Application/service installation charges are available upon request from the
Meter Department Office of the PWSB. This quotation shall be valid for a period
of six months.
3.2.5 Winter Time
moratorium on water service installations. Refer to APPENDIX B
3.3 OWNERSHIP OF
SERVICE PIPE
3.3.1 Street Portion:
The service pipe from the distribution main up to and including the curb stop
is owned by the PWSB, except in Central Falls where it is owned by the City of
Central Falls.
3.3.2 Customer Portion:
The portion of the service pipe beyond the curb stop (including the connection
to the curb stop) belongs to the owner of the property, and is installed in
accordance with the current PWSB standard details and maintained by the owner
through a licensed plumber.
3.4 CUSTOMER SERVICE
PIPES
3.4.1 Sequence of
Installation: The customer's service pipe, from the curb line to the
building, shall be installed in accordance with the current PWSB
standard details, and the installation shall be completed before the PWSB
installs its portion of the service from the main to the curb. The exception
being that for 4 inch and larger service, PWSB shall provide their service
first.
3.4.2 Alignment:
The INSTALLER must lay the customer's service pipe in a straight line from the
curb to the inside of the building’s front exterior wall and perpendicular to
the center line of the street. The proposed alignment must be approved by the
PWSB before any work is performed.
3.4.3A Separation from
Sewer: No water service pipe shall be laid in the same trench with a sewer
pipe, nor shall a water service pipe be laid within 10 feet of any sewer pipe,
nor cross beneath a sewer. In situations where it is impossible to obtain the
above separation, the separation shall be in accordance with the Ten State
Standards (Refer to Appendix A).
3.4.3B Separation from
underground utilities other than Sewer: All underground utilities
and/or structures (except sewer) shall maintain a minimum five foot horizontal
clear separation from any existing water line as measured in a horizontal
plane. There is no minimum vertical separation required provided the five
foot horizontal separation is maintained. In situations where the 5-foot
horizontal separation cannot be maintained, a minimum two-foot vertical clear
separation shall be maintained. If it is impossible to obtain proper
separations, the proposed separation must be approved by the PWSB before any
work is performed.
3.4.4 Permits: The
property owner or the owner’s INSTALLER shall obtain any necessary permits, as
required, from the appropriate city, town or state agency before opening any
sidewalk for the laying of service pipes.
3.4.5 Depth:
Customer service pipes shall have at least five feet of cover to avoid
freezing.
3.4.6 Materials:
All new or replaced service pipes size 2 inch and smaller, shall be Type K,
extra heavy, soft temper, cold drawn, seamless copper tubing with a minimum
ultimate tensile strength of 30,000 pounds per square inch or material approved
by the PWSB. Service pipes larger than two inch shall be ductile iron pipe,
thickness class 52, cement-lined, (DOUBLE THICKNESS), manufactured in accordance
with the latest standards of the American Water Works Association.
3.4.7 Inspection:
The customer service pipe shall be inspected and tested for water tightness in
the presence of a PWSB representative before being covered. Such inspection
shall not relieve the installer of requirements for inspections by
representatives of the respective city or town-building inspector.
3.5 SERVICE VALVES
3.5.1 Main Shut-off:
Every service pipe shall have an approved valve installed immediately after its
entry into the building. All fittings located before (on the street side of the
meter) the meter must be flared. Existing services not furnished with valves
shall be made to conform when the piping is renewed.
3.5.2 Meter Valve:
All services shall be equipped with an approved type ball valve, backflow
prevention device, in accordance with provisions of Section 10, to protect the
public water system from any potential reverse flow that could compromise the
system water quality. A ball valve shall be placed, immediately following (on
the building side) the water meter and backflow preventive device, to prevent
the backflow of water when the meter is removed. Existing services not
furnished with valves should be made to conform when the piping is renewed.
3.6 UNAUTHORIZED OPERATIONS
No person except an
authorized representative of the PWSB will be allowed under any circumstances
to tap distribution mains and insert corporation stops therein, to install or
remove service pipes, or to operate gate valves and curb stops. If operation of
gate valves or curb stops is required, one working day's notice shall be given
to the PWSB except in case of emergency.
3.7 REPAIRS TO
CONSUMERS' PIPING AND FIXTURES
3.7.1 Repairs:
Property owners shall be required to keep their service pipes and appurtenances
that are connected to the public water system in good repair and protected from
damage due to freezing, vandalism and negligence. In case of a break in the
customer's portion of the service pipe, the property owner shall have the pipe
repaired immediately by an INSTALLER. Failure to make repairs at once shall be
cause for disconnection of the customer.
3.7.2 Low Pressure:
In the event of low pressure less than normal minimum system pressure of 20
pounds per square inch within a customer's premises, the PWSB will replace the
street portion of the service pipe only after the customer has had an INSTALLER
relay the customer's portion of the service pipe from the curb to the building.
3.8 SPECIAL SERVICE
INSTALLATIONS
3.8.1 Services for
condominiums, trailer parks, housing projects and other similar applications
shall be subject to the provisions of Section 2.7.
3.8.2 Swimming Pools:
Swimming pools shall be filled only through permanently connected, metered
services with an approved backflow prevention device. Pools shall not be filled
from fire hydrants under any circumstances.
SECTION
4. TEMPORARY SERVICES
4.1 CONSTRUCTION
SERVICES
4.1.1 Application:
Contractors, builders, and others requiring water for construction purposes
shall make application for a temporary service and shall thereafter be subject
to the same rules and regulations as permanent customers.
4.1.2 Meters and
Backflow Prevention: Appropriately
sized meter and backflow prevention device shall be installed on the temporary
service, in a protected location provided by the applicant.
4.1.3 Payment: The
applicant for a temporary service shall make payment in advance of an
application/service installation charge which will cover the PWSB's costs in
installing the service, plus a deposit sufficient to cover the cost of the
water meter, backflow prevention device and the estimated cost of the water to
be used through the temporary service.
4.1.4 Excessive
Consumption: If, at any time, the cost of the water used by the applicant
exceeds the amount deposited for the cost of water, the applicant will be
required to deposit additional sums to pay for the actual consumption and
estimated additional use.
4.1.5 Refund:
Following completion of the work, upon the return of the meter and backflow
prevention device and request of the applicant, the PWSB shall refund any
unused portions of the deposit.
4.2 HYDRANT SUPPLIES
4.2.1 Special Permit:
Temporary service supplies from fire hydrants shall be made only under special
permit of the Chief Engineer, and shall be subject to all conditions contained
in such permit.
4.2.2 Meter and
Backflow Prevention: All hydrant services shall have an appropriately sized
meter and backflow prevention device set by the PWSB. The applicant shall
provide a secure location for the meter.
4.2.3 Payment: The
applicant shall pay, in advance, an application charge as well as a deposit of
sufficient amount to cover the cost of the water meter and backflow preventive
device and the estimated water which will be used.
4.2.4 Refund: Upon
request of the applicant and the return of the meter and backflow prevention
device in good condition, the unused portion of the deposit shall be refunded.
4.2.5 Swimming Pools:
Swimming pools shall not be filled from fire hydrants under any circumstances.
SECTION
5. MAIN PIPE
5.1 TRANSMISSION MAINS
5.1.1 Definition:
Transmission mains are large-diameter pipes, typically 16 inches and larger,
laid for the purpose of transmitting water to and from the PWSB's pumping
stations and reservoirs, and to assure an adequate supply of water at critical
points of the distribution system.
5.1.2 Connections of
service pipes or fire hydrants shall not be permitted on transmission mains
larger than 16 inches unless authorized by PWSB.
5.1.3 Central Falls:
The PWSB owns several transmission mains in the City of Central Falls. No
applications are accepted for any services from these transmission mains.
5.2 DISTRIBUTION MAINS,
EXTENSIONS
5.2.1 Definition:
Distribution mains are water pipes laid in the streets as feeders to consumer's
services and fire hydrants. All distribution mains in the PWSB's service area
in Pawtucket and Cumberland are owned by the PWSB; distribution mains in
Central Falls are owned by the City of Central Falls.
5.2.2 Developer's
Expense and Reimbursement: New distribution mains and extensions of
existing mains shall be installed by and at the sole expense of the person or
firm requesting the extension, subject to reimbursement by future connectors as
provided in Section 5.2.7. All main extensions shall be approved in advance by
the PWSB and shall be subject to any and all conditions which may be included
in such approval. The developer shall enter into an appropriate agreement with
the PWSB detailing the requirements of the installation, the basis for fees and
charges, and the procedures for reimbursement of construction costs.
5.2.3 Dead Ends
Prohibited: Unless special approval is obtained from the PWSB, no water
main extension shall be installed that results in a dead end. That is, any main
extension shall be required to connect to an active water main at each end to
promote circulation and reliability of service.
5.2.4 Contractor
Approval: Main extensions shall be installed by a contractor approved by
the Chief Engineer. The applicant may be required to provide a performance bond
or cash deposit sufficient to complete the installation or to correct any
defects.
5.2.5 Main extension construction
shall be inspected by a representative of the PWSB, and shall not be placed
into operation until fully accepted in writing by the Chief Engineer. The PWSB
shall charge the applicant an inspection fee sufficient to cover inspection
costs.
5.2.6 Customer Service:
The developer shall install, at his expense, customer service pipes from new
mains to the front property line of each lot, and shall file an application for
each service in the developer’s name. The developer shall be billed the
customer charge for each such service until such time as the lot and any
improvement thereon has been sold and the new owner has requested service.
5.2.7 Developer
Reimbursement: Where any developer-installed water main provides water
service heretofore unavailable to any property other than that specified in the
main extension application, the developer shall be entitled to reimbursement of
a proportionate amount of the original installation cost from new customers
that connect to the new main within five years of the date of acceptance of the
main by the PWSB. The proportionate share assigned to each such future
connection shall be based on the street frontage of each parcel receiving new
service from the extension, including the developer's property; the cost to be
apportioned shall be the developer's original installation cost for the
extension (as evidenced by receipted bills from the installing contractor) less
the cost of any customer service pipes installed to serve the developer's
property. The PWSB shall collect the reimbursement amounts from the new
connectors at the time each applies for water service, and shall forward the
reimbursement to the developer.
SECTION
6. FIRE SUPPLIES
6.1 GENERAL
6.1.1 The PWSB may render
a special service to private property for fire protection purposes.
6.1.2 Domestic water
supply for residential fire protection, residential fire sprinklers for boiler
protection, may be permitted providing that:
1.
The customer shall comply
with the PWSB Rules & Regulations under sections 6 also section 10, and all
other sections that may apply.
2.
Not more then three
sprinkler heads are allowed to be used for fire protection on boilers
only.
3.
Sprinkler heads must be
piped so that the supply of cold water provides circulation of water.
4.
No valve shall be allowed
which shuts off the sprinkler system without turning off the domestic water
supply.
6.1.3 Applications for
fire protection service shall be made by the property owner or the owner’s
authorized agent, and shall be accompanied by complete plans of the proposed
fire protection system and payment of the proper charges. Rates for fire
service installations and annual fire service charges are available upon
request from the PWSB Meter Department.
6.1.4 All new fire
services shall include a Reduced Pressure Zone Valve (RP), all other fire
services shall meet the requirements of section 6.8.1.
6.2 DRAWINGS
6.2.1 The applicant for
fire protection service shall furnish a complete and correct set of
drawings, specifications and calculation prepared and stamped by a registered
professional engineer, of the proposed fire protection system, including a plan
of the property and detailed locations of all valves, pipes, meters, hydrants,
tanks, booster pumps, sprinkler heads, test outlets, and other appurtenances.
The plans shall become the property of the PWSB upon application.
6.2.2 The applicant agrees
as a condition of this special service to furnish revised and up-to-date
drawings of the fire protection system whenever any changes or additions are
made.
6.3 APPROVAL OF
INSTALLATIONS
6.3.1 The PWSB reserves
the right to determine the necessity for, and the advisability of, granting any
application for this special service, and the right to determine the size of
service pipe which will be permitted. Such determination shall consider the
size of the street main, pressure on the main, possible effects on existing
customers, and the nature and capacity of the fire protection equipment in the
building.
6.3.2 Only one fire
service shall be allowed to any one building or premises unless the applicant,
or applicant’s engineer, can document that more than one service is required
for proper protection of the premises. All fire protection equipment connected
to the city service shall be confined to the building or premises named in the
application. Where more than one service is provided for a single building or
premises, they shall be kept separated within the premises; they may be
connected only with special permission of the Chief Engineer.
6.3.3 All vertical backflow
prevention device installations must have the approval of the PWSB.
6.4 ANNUAL CHARGES,
WATER USE
6.4.1 Charges for fire
protection service shall be paid in advance upon application and then annually
in advance when billed. Water used for purposes other than fire protection
shall be billed at prevailing rates.
6.5 SEPARATE
CONNECTIONS, USE OF WATER
6.5.1 Any connection
larger than 2 inches that supplies water for fire protection shall be a
separate connection from the domestic water supply. Each water supply system
(fire and domestic) shall be separately connected to the water supply main in
the street, except 6.1.2.2.
6.5.2 Fire supply services
shall not be used to supply water for any purpose other than fire protection.
Reasonable uses of water shall be permitted for fire drills, draining the
system to prevent freezing, testing the system, and other reasonable uses
connected with fire protection.
6.5.3 Fire protection
services shall not be used to supply water for any other purpose. Such use shall
be grounds for disconnection of the fire protection service.
6.6 INSPECTIONS, TESTS
6.6.1 All fire services
shall be subject to periodic inspections by the PWSB. The owner shall give all
reasonable access for such inspection and shall provide such information as may
be requested.
6.6.2 Owners may
periodically test their fire protection system in accordance with the following
procedures:
a) The owner or the agent
of the owner shall notify the PWSB at least two working days before the test.
b) The owner or the
insurance company shall place an advertisement in the The Times
warning of the possibilities of rusty water.
c) Whatever information is
obtained from the test shall be submitted to the PWSB as public information.
d) The owner shall notify
the appropriate fire department when the test is to take place.
6.6.3 The PWSB reserves
the right to have a representative present during the test and to limit the
volume and/or the flow rate of the water used for the test.
6.7 MATERIALS
6.7.1 Fire protection
services that receive a meter shall be metered in conformance with Section 2.
6.7.2 The owner shall
purchase and install an approved backflow protection device with a working
pressure of two hundred (200) psi.
6.7.3 On the inlet
and discharge sides of each fire service’s meter and backflow assemblies,
the owner shall install a gate valve of the OS&Y type, manufactured
in accordance with the American Water Works Association specifications and
meeting the requirements of the National Board of Fire Underwriters or its
successor organization.
6.8 BACKFLOW PREVENTION
6.8.1 Fire protection
systems shall be required to be updated with an approved Backflow
Protection Device. Because of the varying degree of hazard which may be
present in any given fire protection system, the protection required must be
determined by the PWSB after evaluation.
6.8.2 Generally, however,
the fire service entrance shall be equipped with an approved Backflow
Prevention Device suitable for use with the highest degree of hazard as follows
(see Section 10 for additional requirements as to Backflow Prevention):
(a) Anti-freeze or other
chemical addition – RP
(b) Unapproved auxiliary
water supply connection to system (well, lake, stream, etc.) – RP.
(c) Foamite plant –
RP.
(d) Any system with
private fire hydrants – RP, DCVA. *
(e) In-line booster pump
– RP plus low-suction pressure cut-off.
(f) Pumping connection
within 1,700 feet of auxiliary water supply – RP, DCVA. *
(g) Pumper connection more
than 1,700 feet from auxiliary water supply - Alarm Check**.
(h) Water storage tank
– RP, DCVA *
(i) Building height over
three stories – RP, DCVA *.
RP = Reduced
Pressure – New Fire service Applications
* DCVA = Double Check Valve Assemble
Only For Retro Fitting Existing Fire Service With No Chemicals AND Must
Have Prior Approval of the PWSB..
** Pumper connection must be downstream
of alarm check.
6.9 FIRE PUMPS
6.9.1 Fire pumps,
installed for the purpose of boosting pressure above that available from the
water supply main, shall be allowed only under special permit from the Chief
Engineer. Application for such permit shall include a detailed submittal of all
pertinent information on the pump, including capacity-head curves, connection
sizes, suction head data, and other information requested by the Chief
Engineer.
6.9.2 The application
shall also include all requested information on the pump control system,
backflow prevention devices, and other appurtenances, sufficient to assure the
Chief Engineer that the proposed installation will not adversely affect the
water system. All information shall be certified by a registered Professional
Engineer.
SECTION
7. FIRE HYDRANTS
7.1 HYDRANT
INSTALLATIONS
7.1.1 In Pawtucket and
Cumberland, the PWSB shall install public fire hydrants in any location
requested by the fire chief of the Pawtucket or Valley Falls Fire Department,
subject, however, to the ability of the mains to supply the needed quantities
of water.
7.1.2 Fire hydrants may
also be installed by the PWSB when needed for proper operation of the
distribution system or for adequate fire protection.
7.1.3 In Central Falls,
hydrants shall be installed by the City of Central Falls.
7.2 HYDRANT OWNERSHIP
7.2.1 All public fire
hydrants in Pawtucket and Cumberland and their connections are installed and
maintained by the PWSB as part of the water system. Hydrants in Central Falls
and their connections are installed and maintained by the City of Central Falls
as part of its water system.
7.2.2 An annual charge for
the use of public fire hydrants shall be charged to the respective fire
departments at the prevailing rates contained in the tariffs.
7.3 USE OF HYDRANTS
7.3.1 Public fire hydrants
are installed for the sole purpose of fire protection. With the exception of
members of the fire department performing their official duties and employees
of the PWSB, no person shall operate a fire hydrant without the written consent
of the Chief Engineer.
7.3.2 By special permit,
certain hydrants will be designated to the public works departments of each
municipality and to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation for use in
filling street sweepers and sewer jet trucks. These connections will be subject
to backflow prevention as required within these rules and regulations.
7.4 OBSTRUCTIONS OR
TAMPERING WITH HYDRANTS
7.4.1 No person shall
obstruct the access to any public fire hydrant by placing or permitting any
vehicle, snow, debris, building material, or other obstruction to remain on or
about the hydrant which will in any way interfere with its immediate use.
7.4.2 No person shall
change the appearance, color or shape of any hydrant.
7.4.3 Any person who shall
illegally operate a fire hydrant shall be subject to prosecution under
applicable state and local law.
SECTION
8. SOURCE OF SUPPLY
8.1 The Abbott Run Stream
provides water to the Pawtucket Water Supply System. The source of supply
includes two large reservoirs - Diamond Hill Reservoir and Arnold Mills
Reservoir - and two smaller ponds - Robin Hollow Pond and Happy Hollow Pond -
as well as the land around them and along much of the length of Abbott Run
Stream in the Town of Cumberland, Rhode Island, and North Attleboro,
Massachusetts. The PWSB owns exclusive flowage rights to all water in Abbott
Run Stream.
8.2 The ponds and
reservoirs are defined as "Terminal Reservoirs." Any use whatsoever
of these terminal reservoirs and the land surrounding them by the general
public is prohibited because of the possibility of contamination of the water
supply and damage to the watershed property.
8.3 No person shall
withdraw any water from the Abbott Run Stream or from any reservoir or pond
along it for any purpose without the express written authorization of the PWSB.
8.4 Any person who
trespasses on the property of the PWSB for any purpose whatsoever, or who
through any action or inaction pollutes or contaminates the water of Abbott Run
Stream shall be prosecuted under applicable state and local laws.
SECTION
9. RESTRICTIONS ON WATER USE
9.1 AIR CONDITIONING
EQUIPMENT
9.1.1 All air conditioning
and refrigeration installations employing water from the municipal system shall
be designed to recirculate the cooling water and minimize the requirements for
make-up water. Once through refrigeration systems shall not be permitted. The
make-up water line shall be equipped with a backflow prevention device in
accordance with the provisions of Section 10.
9.2 WATER SHORTAGES,
DROUGHTS
9.2.1 The PWSB shall
declare a water emergency whenever the amount of water in the storage
reservoirs falls below 50% of total storage capacity or during droughts
or periods of extended hot weather that stress the PWSB system. The
emergency shall remain in effect until the reservoirs are restored to 60% or
more of capacity.
9.2.2 When a water
emergency is declared, the PWSB shall develop supplementary regulations to
reduce water use through conservation, elimination of waste, and restrictions
on certain types of use. Restrictions may include, but shall not be limited to:
(a) washing or flushing of
sidewalks;
(b) watering of lawns,
shrubs, and other vegetation;
(c) washing motor
vehicles, rolling stock;
(d) filling of private
swimming pools;
(e) use of decorative
water fountains;
(f) other uses designated
by the PWSB.
9.2.3 During a water
emergency, the PWSB or the Chief Engineer may, if required, prohibit the use of
water from the municipal supply for any purpose not essential to the health,
safety and welfare of the public, and may prorate or ration the use of the
available supply so that uses may serve those purposes most closely related to
the safety and health of the public.
9.2.4 Customers who fail
to comply with water conservation measures and restrictions shall be subject to
penalties as provided in the emergency regulations approved by the Public
Utilities Commission, including but not limited to immediate termination of
service. Such termination shall not limit the PWSB from imposing other penalties
as may be provided for by these rules and regulations and by state and local
law.
SECTION
10. CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL AND BACKFLOW PREVENTION PROGRAM
10.1 Definitions
10.1.1 For the
purpose of this Section, the following words and phrases shall have the
meanings set out below:
PWSB - The Pawtucket water
Supply Board, any of its members, its Chief Engineer, or any of its employees,
either singly or collectively
Air Gap - The unobstructed vertical distance
through the free atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet
supplying pure water to a tank, plumbing fixture, or other device, and the
flood level rim of the receptacle.
Auxiliary Water Supply - Any water supply on or available to
the premises other than that of the PWSB. These auxiliary water supplies may
include water from any public or private utility system other than that of the
PWSB; or water from a source such as an unapproved tank, well, lake, or stream;
or process fluids; or used water that may be polluted or contaminated or
objectionable, or constitute a water source or system over which the PWSB has
no control.
Backflow - The flow of contaminants,
pollutants, process fluids, used water, untreated water, chemicals, gases, or
non-potable waters into any part of the PWSB's water system, from any source or
sources other than the intended source; the flow of water or other substances
in a pipe in a direction opposite to the intended direction.
Backflow Preventer or
Backflow Prevention Device
- Any approved device, method, or type of construction intended to prevent
backflow into the PWSB's water system.
Back Pressure - Pressure created by mechanical
means or otherwise which causes or may cause backflow.
Back-Siphonage - Backflow due to reduced or
sub-atmospheric pressure in the public water system.
Consumer - The owner or tenant, or the agent
of either, or other persons in charge of any premises supplied by or in any
manner connected to the PWSB's water system.
Contamination - Any introduction into pure water of
microorganisms, wastes, wastewater, undesirable chemicals, or gases.
Cross-Connection - Any actual or potential connection
or structural arrangement, direct or indirect, whereby backflow to the PWSB's
water system can occur. This may also include by-pass arrangements, jumper
connections, spool pieces, swivel or changeover devices, and other temporary or
permanent devices through which or because of which backflow may occur.
Degree of Hazard - A term derived from an evaluation
of the potential risk to health and the adverse effect upon the PWSB's water
system.
Double Check Valve
Assembly (DCVA) - An
approved assembly composed of two single, independently acting internally
loaded check valves including tightly closing shut-off valves located at each
end of the assembly and test cocks for testing the water tightness of each
check valve (See 10.8.2)
Downstream - Device A is "downstream"
of Device B if water, flowing in its normally intended direction, reaches
Device A after it has reached or passed through Device B.
Health Hazard - Any condition, device, or practice
in the public water system or its operation that creates, or may create, a
danger to the health and well being of the water consumer; a similar situation
in a consumer's water system which threatens to create a health hazard in the
public system through backflow.
Pollution - The presence of any foreign
substance (chemical, physical, radiological, or biological) in water that tends
to degrade its quality so as to constitute an unnecessary risk or impair the
usefulness of the water.
Pollution Hazard - A condition through which an
aesthetically objectionable or degrading material may enter the PWSB's water
system.
Potable Water - Water from any source approved by
the Rhode Island Department of Health for Human consumption.
Process Fluids - Any fluid or solution which may be
chemically, biologically, or otherwise contaminated or polluted which would
constitute a health, pollution, or system hazard if introduced into the PWSB's
water system, including, but not limited to: (a) polluted or contaminated
waters; (b) process waters; (c) used waters originating from the PWSB's water
system but which may have deteriorated in sanitary quality; (d) cooling waters;
(e) contaminated natural waters taken from wells, lakes, streams, or irrigation
systems; (f) water from unapproved storage tanks; (g) chemicals in solution or
suspension; and (h) oils, gases, acids, alkalis, and other liquid or gaseous
fluids used in industrial or other processes, or for fire fighting purposes.
Reduced Pressure
Principle Backflow (RPPD)
- An approved device containing a minimum of two independently acting
internally loaded check valves together with an automatically operated pressure
differential relief valve located between the two check valves. During normal
flow and at the cessation of normal flow, the pressure between the two check
valves shall be less than the supply pressure. In case of leakage of either
check valve, the differential relief valve, by discharging to the atmosphere,
shall operate to maintain the pressure between the check valves at less than
the supply pressure. The unit must include tightly closing shutoff valves
located at each end of the device, and shall be fitted with properly located
test cocks. (see 10.8.1)
System Hazard - A condition causing damage or
posing the threat of damage to the physical properties of the Board's water
system.
Upstream - Device A is "upstream" of
Device B if water, flowing in its normally intended direction, must flow
through Device A before reaching Device B.
Used Water - Any water supplied by the PWSB from
its water system to a consumer's water system after it has passed through the
water meter or check valve.
Vacuum Breaker - A device used to prevent
back-siphonage by admitting atmosphere air pressure to the water pipe. (See
l0.8.3 and l0.8.4)
10.2 WATER SUPPLY BOARD
RESPONSIBILITIES
10.2.1 As the purveyor of
water to its customer, the PWSB has the following responsibilities in regard to
cross-connection control:
a. General responsibility
for the safety of the public water system under its jurisdiction.
b. Establishing rules,
regulations and procedures to control cross-connections.
c. Reviewing and approving
plans for new installation to assure compliance with these regulations.
d. Inspecting new backflow
preventer installations for compliance with approved plans.
e. Issuing registration
certificates or permits to maintain approved cross-connections in accordance
with these regulations.
f. Inspecting all
commercial, industrial, residential, medical and institutional premises served
by the public water system to determine if cross-connections exist, whenever
the Chief Engineer or his designee deems such inspections necessary.
g. Taking appropriate
actions to eliminate hazardous conditions.
i. Maintaining records of inspections of
approved backflow preventers.
10.3 CONSUMER’S
RESPONSIBILITIES
10.3.1 The owner of any
premises containing a cross-connection or a potential cross-connection shall
have the following responsibilities with regard to backflow prevention devices
on the premises:
a. Applying annually for
renewal of the registration certificate or permit.
b. Having suitable
arrangements made so that inspections can be made by the staff of the PWSB
during regular business hours.
c. Maintaining a spare
parts kit and special tools for each type of backflow preventer.
d. Providing necessary
labor to assist in inspections.
e. Testing, installing and
maintaining of all approved backflow testing devices.
f. Testing, at least
monthly-approved water storage tanks to verify that the water remains of
satisfactory bacteriological quality.
g. Obtaining the necessary
plumbing permits prior to installing backflow preventers.
l0.3.2 Owners and/or
designers of new residential, commercial, industrial, medical
and institutional buildings are urged to contact the PWSB Meter Department as
early as possible in the design process. Prior to applying for water service,
the owner shall file drawings showing all proposed backflow prevention devices,
along with complete plumbing and fire protection plans which show the location
of all hot and cold domestic (potable) water lines, industrial process water
lines, fire protection water lines, and connections to machines, plumbing
fixtures, wall hydrants and hose bibbs, fire protection equipment and other
connections.
l0. 4 REGULATION
OF CROSS-CONNECTIONS
10.4.1 Cross-Connections
Prohibited: Cross-connections between the PWSB's water supply system and
other water supply systems or equipment containing water or other substances of
unknown or questionable safety are prohibited except when and where suitable
backflow preventers, approved and permitted by the PWSB, are installed, tested
and maintained in accordance with these regulations. The PWSB shall not permit
cross-connections unless all of the following conditions are met:
a. The PWSB's water system
is protected by a method meeting the requirements of these regulations, and
b. Approved backflow
preventers or vacuum breakers are properly installed wherever required, and
c. Plans, drawings, and
specifications showing the method of protecting the PWSB's water system have
been approved by the Chief Engineer or the designee of the Chief Engineer prior
to construction and installation, and
d. The consumer obtains
the required permit or certificate.
l0.4.2 Inspections:
The Chief Engineer or designee of the Chief Engineer shall cause inspections to
be made of the premises served by the PWSB's water system where the possibility
of a cross-connection is deemed to exist. The frequency of inspections and
reinspections shall be established by the Chief Engineer or designee of the
Chief Engineer, based on the potential health and system hazards involved.
l0.4.3 Access:
Representatives of the PWSB shall have the right to enter at any reasonable
time any premises served by a connection to the PWSB's water system for the
purpose of inspecting or reinspecting the piping system or systems for cross-connections.
Upon request, the consumer shall furnish the PWSB pertinent information
regarding the piping system(s) and appurtenances on the premises. The refusal
of the consumer to provide access or information, when requested, shall be
deemed evidence of the presence of a cross-connection on the premises.
l0.4.4 Denial of
Service:
(a) The PWSB may deny or
discontinue water service to a consumer, or subject the service to other legal
action by the PWSB, whenever, in the opinion of the PWSB, the provision or
continuation of service would pose a health hazard, a pollution hazard, or a
system hazard to the PWSB's water system. Water service shall not be provided
or restored to such premises until the required backflow prevention devices
have been installed and tested by the consumer, or until the hazard has been
otherwise eliminated.
(b) If inspection of the
premises reveals that any required backflow prevention device has been removed
from the consumer's water system, or has been bypassed, or is in need of
repair, or that a cross-connection exists on the premises, or if continued
service to the premises caused pressure in the PWSB’s water system to be
lowered below 20 pounds per square inch gauge, the Board shall take positive
action to insure that the water system is adequately protected at all times.
Water service to such premises may be discontinued, or subject to other legal
actions by the PWSB; and shall not be restored until all deficiencies have been
corrected to the satisfaction of the Chief Engineer or designee of the Chief
Engineer.
(c) If the consumer denies
access to PWSB employees for the purpose of testing backflow prevention devices
installed on the consumer's premises, or if the consumer fails to repair any
defective device within ten days of notice to do so, service shall be
discontinued or subject to other legal actions by the PWSB until it is
determined that the devices are functioning properly.
l0. 5 CROSS-CONNECTION
PERMIT REQUIRED
10. 5.1 The owner of
any premises containing a cross-connection meeting the requirements of Section
l0. 3 shall obtain a registration certificate or permit from the PWSB annually
for each approved backflow prevention device installed in accordance with
approved plans. Certificates or permits shall expire on last day of each
designated month.
l0. 5.2 Renewal:
Registration certificates or permits will not be renewed if:
a. The consumer has denied
access for periodic testing of the backflow preventer(s) by the PWSB; or
b. The consumer has failed
to make or have made the annual or semi-annual testing of backflow preventers,
and/or has failed to maintain records of the testing as required by Section
l0.8
c. The consumer has failed
to promptly repair any malfunctioning backflow preventer as of the expiration
date of the certificate or permit; or
d. The consumer has failed
to pay the annual cross-connection registration fee.
l0. 5.3 Revocation:
After notice and opportunity for a hearing, the PWSB may revoke any
registration certificate or permit at any time whenever, in the opinion of the
Chief Engineer or designee of the Chief Engineer, the cross-connection or
the maintenance thereof no longer complies with these regulations. A request
for a hearing before the PWSB shall not authorize any consumer to maintain the
cross-connection in question pending the hearing.
l0. 5.4 No consumer
shall maintain a cross-connection without a registration certificate or permit,
or after a certificate or permit has expired or been revoked. The PWSB shall
take any actions it deems necessary to assure the safety of its water system.
l0. 5.5 Fee:
The PWSB shall charge an annual fee for each registered cross-connection and/or
backflow preventer on a consumer's premises, to cover the cost of inspection
and certification and other costs related to the administration of the
cross-connection control program. The amount of this fee may be obtained by
contacting the PWSB office.
l0. 6 LOCATION OF
PROTECTIVE DEVICE
10.6.1 The location
of the backflow preventer with respect to the plumbing on the consumer's
premises and the service connection will be determined by the degree of hazard
existing or potentially existing, and shall conform to the requirements of this
section.
l0. 6.2 It is the
PWSB's responsibility to protect the public water system from contamination.
Although the easiest method of doing this is often by "containment"
(that is, installing a backflow preventer on the consumer's service line, just
inside the premises from the water meter), this offers no protection to the
occupants of the premises. Accordingly, the PWSB will attempt to cooperate with
the consumer to locate backflow preventer(s) to provide simultaneous protection
of the public water supply and the potable water system within the consumer's
premises ("in plant protection"), but reserves the right to require
containment of any premises.
l0. 6.3 Approved
backflow preventers shall be located so as to achieve protection of all
cross-connections with a minimum number of devices.
l0. 6.4 When high or
varying degrees of hazard exist, in-plant protection must be supplemented by
additional protection at the meter or property line. The following list gives
examples of, but does not limit, the types of facilities which must have additional
protection at the meter or property line ("containment"):
a. Hospitals, mortuaries,
clinics, nursing homes;
b. Laboratories;
c. Piers, docks, marinas,
waterfront facilities;
d. Sewage treatment
plants, sewage pumping stations, storm water pumping stations;
e. Food and beverage
processing plants;
f. Chemical plants, dyeing
plants;
g. Metal plating
industries;
h. Petroleum processing or
storage plants;
i. Radioactive materials
processing plant or nuclear reactors;
j. Car washes;
k. Lawn sprinkler systems,
irrigation systems;
l. Fire protection service
systems;
m. Slaughter houses and
poultry processing plants;
n. Farms where the water
is used for other than household purposes;
o. Others specified by the
PWSB and/or the State Department of Health when reasonable cause can be shown
for a potential backflow or cross-connection hazard.
l0. 6.5 Premises in which
the following conditions exist shall be protected against backflow by
containment (note that the installation of a backflow preventer at the meter or
property line does not protect the consumer's potable water system):
a. Premises on which any
substance is handled in such a manner as to create an actual or potential
hazard to the PWSB’s water system.
b. Premises having
internal cross-connections that, in the judgment of the Chief Engineer or
designee of the Chief Engineer, may not be easily corrected, or intricate
plumbing arrangements which make it impracticable to determine whether or not
cross-connections exist.
c. Premises where, because
of security requirements or other prohibitions or restrictions, it is
impossible or impractical to make a complete cross-connection survey.
d. Premises having a
repeated history of cross-connections being established or re-established.
e. Premises having fire
protection systems utilizing combinations of sprinklers, fire loops, storage
tanks, pumps, antifreeze protection, or auxiliary water supplies.
f. Other premises
specified by the PWSB when cause can be shown that a potential cross-connection
hazard not listed above exists.
l0.7 TYPE OF BACKFLOW PREVENTER REQUIRED
10. 7.1 Depending on
the degree of hazard and type of backflow involved, the PWSB may accept air-gap
separation, reduced pressure principle devices (RPPD), double check valve
assemblies (DCVA), pressure-type vacuum breakers (PVB), or atmospheric vacuum
breakers (AVB) as backflow preventers.
l0. 7.2 Each
consumer's premises have unique problems; cross-connections occur in a variety
of forms and vary in nature such that the protection of each installation must
be considered in light of the conditions found to exist. Therefore, the final
determination of the type of backflow prevention required shall be made on a
case-by-case basis by the Chief Engineer or designee of the Chief
Engineer.
l0. 7.3 The
following guidelines will be used in evaluating backflow preventer selection:
a. Air gaps give the
highest degree of protection.
b. Vacuum breakers will
not protect against backpressure, but will protect against back-siphonage when
operating properly.
c. Barometric loops are
not acceptable backflow preventers.
d. An interchangeable
connection or change-over device has limitations which prevent its use where
back pressure is present or may occur, where the auxiliary supply is not an
approved source, or where the water system supply pressure is likely to drop
below 20 pounds per square inch gauge. Since this type of connection is one of
the easiest to bypass, the use of this type device will be approved only as a temporary
and continuously supervised arrangement. In most instances, an approved device
or method must be included and approved by the Chief Engineer or designee of
the Chief Engineer
e. Reduced Pressure
Principle Devices (RPPDs) shall not be installed in underground vaults or in
areas subject to flooding.
f. Double Check Valve
Assemblies (DCVAs) shall not be installed in areas subject to flooding and
preferably not in underground vaults except where gravity drainage is provided.
DCVAs shall not be used where degree of hazard is considered moderate or high.
g. Fire service system:
See Section 6 of the Rules and Regulations.
h. Approved DCVAs and
RPPDs shall be furnished complete with two tightly closing gate valves and four
quarter-inch test cocks.
i. Unless protected
against a higher degree of hazard by a DCVA, RPPD, air gap, vacuum breaker, or
other device installed in the supply line, all hose bibs and wall hydrants
shall be protected by an integral or non-removable hose bib vacuum breaker.
10. 7.4 There shall
be no by-pass around any approved backflow preventer unless an approved
backflow preventer is installed on the by-pass.
10. 7.5 When
premises are protected by containment, the type of backflow preventer used
shall be appropriate for use with the highest degree of hazard known or
suspected to exist on the consumer's premises.
10. 7.6 Premises
having booster pumps connected to the water system shall be equipped with a low
pressure cut-off device to shut off the booster pump when the pressure in the
pump suction drops to 20 pounds per square inch gauge or below.
10. 7.7 RPPDs,
DCVAs, vacuum breakers, manufactured air-gap items, and other backflow
prevention devices used to comply with these regulations must be types and
models appearing on the latest approved list of the University of Southern
California Foundation for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.
Other devices shall be considered for approval, provided the consumer or the
manufacturer of the device first furnishes to the Chief Engineer or designee of
the Chief Engineer:
a. Laboratory test reports
from an independent testing laboratory, based on ASCE Standard No. 1013 or No.
1015, or on American Water Works Association Standard C-510 and C-511, or on
USC Specifications; and
b. Field test report of
one year's service under supervision of an independent testing laboratory in
conformance with American Water Works Association Standard C-510 and C-511, or
on USC Specifications; and
c. Copy of ASCE
Certification Seal or USC Certificate of Approval; and
d. Current catalog
information, installation instructions, and service and maintenance manuals.
10.7.8 Certification of
full approval of the device by the State of Rhode Island Health Department, the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Environmental Quality Engineering
of the Connecticut Department of Health for use in their respective states may
be substituted for items "a." through "c." above. The
information required in item "d." shall be required in either case.
10 8 INSTALLATION
PRACTICES
10. 8.1 Reduced
Pressure Principal Device (RPPD): This device, effective against backflow
caused by back pressure or back siphonage, is used to protect the public water
system from substances which are hazardous to health. All devices should be
installed in the horizontal position. Any proposed vertical installation must
be first reviewed and approved by the PWSB.
a. For in-plant
protection, the RPPD shall be installed on the consumer's side on the water
meter on the domestic water supply line.
b. Drinking and potable
water lines, lines for safety showers, and lines for eye wash devices should be
taken off the upstream side of the backflow preventer.
c. The backflow preventer
shall be located so as to permit easy access and provide adequate and
convenient space for maintenance, inspection and testing.
d. The backflow preventer
and shut-off valves must be installed in a horizontal line between three and
four feet from the floor and a minimum of six inches from any wall.
e. Tightly closing gate
valves must be installed at each end of the device.
f. The device must be
protected from freezing, flooding and mechanical damage.
g. If the device is to be
installed on a hot water line, a device approved for use at the elevated temperature
must be used.
h. If a drain line is to
be provided for the relief valve port, there must be an approved air-gap
separation between the port and the drain line. To be approved, the air-gap
must be at least two times the internal diameter of the discharge port.
i. Before installing a
backflow preventer, pipelines shall be thoroughly flushed to remove foreign
material.
j. The consumer must
maintain a spare parts kit and any special tools required for removal and
re-assembly of devices.
k. Installation of a RPPD
in an underground vault is not permitted.
10. 8.2 Double
Check Valve Assembly (DCVA): A DCVA is effective against backflow caused by
back pressure or back-siphonage and can be used to protect the public water
system from substances which may be objectionable but not hazardous to health.
a. Drinking and domestic
water lines, lines for safety showers, and lines for eye wash devices should be
taken off the upstream side of the DCVA.
b. The DCVA shall be
installed with adequate space to facilitate maintenance, inspection and testing
of the device.
c. The top of the check
valves must be a minimum of thirty inches and a maximum of 54 inches above the
floor.
d. There must be at least
twelve inches clearance between the DCVA and any wall.
e. Tightly closing gate
valves must be installed at each end of the assembly.
f. Check valves must be
provided with suitable connections and appurtenances (four 1/4 inch test cocks)
for testing.
g. The consumer must
maintain a spare parts kit and any special tools required for removal and
re-assembly of each device.
h. The check valves must
be protected against flooding, freezing, and mechanical damage.
i. Underground vault
installation may be permitted only under unusual circumstances and then only by
approval of the PWSB providing the design meets all requirements of section
10.8.5 and standards of the PWSB.
10. 8.3 Atmospheric
Vacuum Breaker (AVB): The AVB, designed to prevent back-siphonage, is not
effective against backflow due to backpressure. They cannot be used in
installations where they will be subject to continuous pressure, or where
shutoff valves are installed downstream of the device.
a. AVBs must be installed
at least six inches above the flood level rim of the highest fixture they
serve, but should not be installed more than five feet above floor or ground.
b. AVBs must be installed
downstream of the last shut-off or valve serving the fixture or equipment.
c. AVBs must be installed
in locations where they will not be subjected to corrosive fumes, dust or grit.
d. The device must be
protected against flooding, freezing and mechanical abuse. Installation in an
underground vault is not permitted.
e. If AVBs are used as
protection on tanks containing liquids which are hazardous to health, further
protection will be required on the water feed line.
f. AVBs must not be used
under conditions of static line pressure.
g. AVBs installed on hose
bibs, wall hydrants, yard hydrants, or other threaded connections must be of
the non removable or tamperproof type.
10. 8.4 Pressure
Vacuum Breaker (PVB): The pressure vacuum breaker assembly consists of one
or two check valves, vacuum relief, inlet and discharge shut-offs, and properly
installed test cocks. It is not effective against backflow due to backpressure,
but may be used as protection against back-siphonage.
a. PVBs must be installed
at least twelve inches above the flood level rim of the highest fixture they
serve, but should not be installed more than five feet from the floor or
ground.
b. PVBs may be installed
on the pressure side of a shutoff valve.
c. There must be adequate
room for maintenance and testing around each device.
d. PVBs must not be
installed in locations where the device will be subject to corrosive fumes,
dust or grit.
e. The device must be
protected against flooding, freezing and mechanical abuse.
f. If PVBs are used as
protection on lines subject to backflow of liquids which are hazardous to
health, further protection will be required on the water feed line.
10. 9 INSPECTION,
TESTING AND OVERHAULING OF DEVICES
10. 9.1 After approval of
plans and installation of approved devices, the installer or consumer shall
notify the PWSB so that arrangements can be made for an inspection by the PWSB.
10. 9.2 Approved
backflow preventers shall be tested at least annually. The PWSB may elect
to have testing of various types of devices, or devices in certain locations,
more frequently.
10. 9.3 The owner
shall provide the necessary labor to assist the representative in testing
and repairing the device(s).
10. 9.4 The owner
shall test all approved backflow prevention devices according to the schedule
included in the permit. A record of the date and results of the test must be
kept and made available on request by the Board. Testing shall be conducted by
NEWWA, ABPA certified testers.
10. 9.5 RPPDs and
DCVAs shall be inspected internally and completely overhauled by the consumer
at least once every five years.
10. 9.6 Devices
failing any test or found defective shall be overhauled, repaired, or replaced,
at the consumer's expense. Repairs must be completed within ten working days of
the notice by the PWSB. The PWSB reserves the right to discontinue water
service to the premises until repairs are complete if it deems such action to
be necessary to protect its system and other consumers.
10. 10 CROSS-CONNECTION
CONTROL IN EXISTING FACILITIES
10.10.1 The Chief
Engineer or designee of the Chief Engineer shall cause existing premises
connected to the PWSB's water system to be inspected for possible
cross-connections and to comply with the provisions of Section 10 whenever:
a. The ownership of the
premises changes; or
b. The principal use of
the premises or a portion of the premises changes; or
c. The existence of a
cross-connection or possible cross-connection is reported to the PWSB by an
employee of the PWSB, by a municipal building or plumbing inspector, by a local
or state health department or safety department employee, or by another
reliable source; or
d. An investigation into
an actual or probable case of backflow or cross-connection contamination
indicates that the premises may be the source of such contamination; or
e. The customer's service
entrance and metering facilities are redesigned or reconstructed.
f. The PWSB deems
necessary.
10.10.2 If the
results of such a cross-connection control inspection indicate the need for
installation of one or more backflow prevention devices, the Chief Engineer or
designee of the Chief Engineer, shall issue an order to install the required
protection and/or to modify the piping and/or the processes used on the
premises to eliminate the hazard. If, after 90 days, the consumer has not
complied with the requirements of the order, water service may be discontinued
in accordance with Section 10.4.4.
10.10.3. The PWSB and/or
its employee’s performing a cross-connection control inspection shall not be
liable for any devices and or locations that the owner fails to report or show.
SECTION
11. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
11.1 PUMP
CONNECTIONS
11.1.1 No booster pump
should be connected to any water main or service without prior written
authorization from the Chief Engineer. All booster pumps shall be equipped with
proper valving and controls to prevent backflow or damage to the water system
as provided in Section 6.9 and 10.7.6.
11.2 SERVICE
INTERRUPTION
11.2.1 The PWSB furnishes
water to its customers at a normal minimum pressure of 20 pounds per square
inch or more, but does not guarantee a continuous supply. The PWSB will assume
no responsibility or liability for any damage to any fixture or apparatus in
any house or other premises due to interruptions in water service, which may
occur without notice, regardless of cause of said interruption.
11.2.2 No person shall be
entitled to payment for damages, nor to have any portion of any payment
refunded, nor to any other remedy, for any stoppage of supply occasioned by
accident to the water system or by repairs; or for any non-use occasioned by
absence.
11.2.3 Notice:
While it is the PWSB's policy to give notice when practicable in advance of any
work which will require interruption of the water supply, such notice is not
required and cannot be assured under all circumstances. In case of emergency,
the water may be shut off at any time without notice.
11.2.4 Failure of a
property owner or tenant to receive notice of an interruption of service shall
not entitle such person to any claim against the PWSB. Property owners shall
take all precautions necessary to assure that lack of water pressure does not
damage boilers, water heaters and other appliances and equipment.
11.3 RESALE OF WATER
11.3.1 No person, firm or
corporation shall purchase water from the PWSB and to resell said water to any
other person or to distribute water to any property or premises not under the
direct control of the original consumer. Violations of this section shall cause
disconnection of water service to the property.
11.3.2 When water is
supplied to more than one party through a single service (as in an apartment
building), the bill for the entire supply furnished through the service shall
be paid by the owner of the property. In the case of non-payment, the water may
be shut off to all parties.
11.4 INSPECTIONS
11.4.1 With reasonable cause,
the PWSB may provide notice to any customer to request access to the customer's
property. Customers shall provide access to inspectors and other employees of
the PWSB at reasonable hours, to all parts of every building, for purposes of
inspecting, reading, removing, resetting and repairing water meters; inspecting
and repairing backflow preventers; inspecting fixtures and other water-using
equipment; conducting cross-connection control inspections; and observing the
manner in which water is used. Failure to provide such access may result in
termination of water service.
11.5 BEGINNING AND
ENDING SERVICE
115.1 Requests to have
water turned on or turned off to any premises, except for emergency repairs,
should be arranged by contacting the Meter Department Office, 85 Branch Street,
Pawtucket, Rhode Island 02860.
11.5.2 Service, which has
been shut off for any reason except repairs, shall not be restored until
arrangements have been made with the Meter Department
Office.
11.6 SEVERABILITY
If any provision of these
Rules and Regulations is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, or
by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission, the remainder of the Rules and
Regulations shall not be affected thereby. The invalidity of any section or sections
or of any part of parts of any section of these Rules and Regulations shall not
affect the validity of the remainder of the Rules and Regulations.
11.7 GENERIC CLAUSE
Wherever these Rules and
Regulations are silent on any subject covered by the rules for water utility
operation of the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission, said rules for water
utility operations of the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission shall apply.
SECTION
12. VIOLATIONS/PENALTIES
12.1 VIOLATIONS OF
RULES: If the owner, agent, lessee, tenant or other person in charge of any
premises violates any rule or regulation of the PWSB, and shall fail to remove
such violation or to comply with any written order of the PWSB, its Chief
Engineer, or duly authorized agent, within ten days after any such order is
issued and sent by certified mail to the last known address of the property
owner of record, the PWSB may discontinue water service to the premises.
12.2 DISCONTINUED WATER
SERVICE : If water service is discontinued for such a violation, it shall
not be restored until the violation is removed or the order is complied with,
to the satisfaction of the Chief Engineer. A fee shall be paid before service
is restored.
12.3 DELINQUENT BILLS:
A water bill becomes delinquent 30 days after it is rendered, at which time it
becomes subject to a penalty which is specified in the tariffs. Water service
may be discontinued to any premises with a delinquent bill upon ten days'
written notice to the property owner and subject to the procedures contained in
the "Rules and Regulations of the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission
Governing Termination of Electric, Gas and Water Utility Services, As
Amended." Service shall not be restored until the delinquent amount has
been paid in full, along with all accumulated penalties and a reconnection
charge.
12.4 LEGAL ACTIONS:
The PWSB reserves the right to prosecute any person under applicable state and
local laws when it believes such person may have trespassed on property owned
by the PWSB; contaminated the water supply reservoirs, streams and tributaries;
damages any building, pipe, vehicle, or other property belonging to the PWSB;
contaminated the water in the distribution system; damaged, tampered with, or
bypassed a water meter; operated any valve, curb stop or fire hydrant; or
otherwise, through any action or inaction, damaged or interfered with the
operation of the PWSB.
12.5 TERMINATION OR
DENIAL OF SERVICE: Unless otherwise provided by these regulations,
disconnection of residential water service for non-payment of bills shall be
preceded by at least ten days' written notice, and shall be otherwise subject
to rules promulgated by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission for
termination of water service. A reconnection service charge shall be paid prior
to restoration of service.
12.6 DISCONTINUANCE OR
DENIAL OF SERVICE: As set forth in Rule 12.3, a water bill becomes delinquent
in thirty (30) days after it is rendered. Unless otherwise provided by
these regulations, the rules promulgated by the Rhode Island Public Utilities
Commission or the Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, all
other applicable laws for termination of water service, water service may be
discontinued to any property with a delinquent bill. The user of the
water service, or the owner or owners of the property and/or building as
recorded by the PWSB shall receive written notice of the impending service
discontinuance at least ten days prior to the effective date of the proposed
discontinuance. Service shall not be discontinued or terminated on a
Friday, Saturday, Sunday or the day before any legal holiday. A
reconnection service charge shall be paid prior to restoration of
service. Service shall not be restored until the delinquent amount has
been paid in full, along with the accumulated penalties and a reconnection
charge.
12.7 FRAUD AND
ENDANGERMENT: The PWSB reserves the right to discontinue water service
without notice: (a) when fraudulent use of the service by a customer is
detected; or (b) whenever, in the opinion of the PWSB or the Chief Engineer, a
customer's actions or inactions would, if service is continued, endanger human
life or health, or public or private property.
APPENDIX
A
TEN
STATE STANDARDS
The table of contents is
attached. A copy of the standards are available at the PWSB office for
review.
APPENDIX
B
PAWTUCKET
WATER SUPPLY BOARD
POLICY
STATEMENT
Winter-Time
Moratorium on Water Service Installation
WHEREAS, Pawtucket Water
Supply Board Distribution crews are often required to work around-the-clock,
seven days a week, during cold-weather months to repair water line leaks and
WHEREAS, Cold-weather
excavations in frozen ground require extraordinary effort and extra care in
backfilling and surface restoration along with extra diligence in maintaining
temporary pavement patching, and
WHEREAS Pavement repair
contractors do not work during cold-weather months due to the availability of
asphalt and concrete during the winter, and
WHEREAS The City of
Pawtucket , City of Central Falls and the Town of Cumberland Public
Works Department have policies that prohibit excavations in streets, except
emergencies, during the period December 1 through April 15 each winter to avoid
the problems associated with cold-weather patching;
THE PAWTUCKET WATER SUPPLY
BOARD hereby established the following policy:
I. Applications for new
water service installations will not be processed and scheduled for
installation between November 1 and April 1 of each winter.
II. During the winter
period, applications for new water service installations will be accepted with
payment of a 20% deposit. Before March 1 of each year, each applicant
will be notified that payment of the balance must be received by April 1 to
retain the position of the application on the waiting list. However,
service applications will not be processed and scheduled for installation until
warm weather has sufficiently thawed the ground to permit normal excavation
methods, and the appropriate municipality has granted permission to excavate in
the streets.
III. Services will be
installed in the order in which deposit payments are received. The
applicant’s service pipe must be installed from the building to the sidewalk
and the balance of the installation charges must be paid in full, before the
PWSB will install the street portion of the service.
IV. If service
installation charges have not been paid in full by April 1 , the applicant will
be dropped to the bottom of the list. Services paid for after April 1
will be installed in accordance with standard procedures; i.e., in the order in
which full payment is received.
V. Any exception to the
foregoing policy shall be considered by the PWSB at its regularly scheduled
meetings following a written request by the applicant. Any application
approved by the PWSB for installation December 1 through April 15, will require
the applicant to obtain the permission of the City or Town Department of Public
Works. The applicant will be billed all costs associated with the winter
installation, including maintenance of the road cut until a permanent patch can
be installed. A deposit of $5,000, cash or bond payable to the PWSB, will
be required to cover all installation and maintenance costs.
“ADOPTED
BY THE PAWTUCKET WATER SUPPLY BOARD AT ITS MEETING OF XXXXXXX.”