The statement that best defines a cross-connection is:

The statement that best defines a cross-connection is:

• A. A cross-connection is a direct connection between two separate piping systems.
• B. A cross-connection is a connection that connects a potable supply to a non-potable system.
• C. A cross-connection is any physical connection or arrangement between two piping systems that are otherwise separate.
• D. A cross-connection is a temporary service line.

Answer: (C)

Cross-connection means any physical connection or arrangement between two piping systems that are normally separate, creating a path where backflow could carry contaminants into the potable supply. That broad description is the best because it covers all forms of interconnection, not just a direct tie or a specific scenario. Limiting the idea to a direct connection misses other interconnections that can still allow backflow, and focusing only on connecting potable to non-potable narrows the definition more than needed. A temporary service line doesn’t describe a cross-connection at all.

Cross-connection means any physical connection or arrangement between two piping systems that are normally separate, creating a path where backflow could carry contaminants into the potable supply. That broad description is the best because it covers all forms of interconnection, not just a direct tie or a specific scenario. Limiting the idea to a direct connection misses other interconnections that can still allow backflow, and focusing only on connecting potable to non-potable narrows the definition more than needed. A temporary service line doesn’t describe a cross-connection at all.