AF Form 843: Backflow Prevention Inspection Data – Download – Backflow prevention is a critical component of protecting potable water systems on U.S. Air Force installations and other federal facilities. AF Form 843, officially titled Backflow Prevention Device Inspection Data (sometimes referred to as Backflow Prevention Inspection Data), is the standardized U.S. Air Force form used to document the inspection and testing of backflow prevention assemblies.
This form helps ensure compliance with Air Force policy, the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), state regulations, and the Safe Drinking Water Act by recording test results for devices that prevent contaminated water from flowing backward into the public or installation water supply.
What Is AF Form 843 Used For?
AF Form 843 records detailed inspection and test data for testable backflow prevention devices, such as:
- Reduced Pressure Principle (RP) assemblies
- Double Check Valve Assemblies (DCVA)
- Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB)
- Other spring-loaded or testable devices
It is not used for non-testable devices like atmospheric vacuum breakers (those typically use AF Form 844).
Key purposes include:
- Documenting annual (or more frequent) testing required after installation, repair, cleaning, or relocation.
- Recording pass/fail results, pressure readings, repairs performed, and technician certification details.
- Supporting the base Backflow Prevention Program (BPP) managed by the Backflow Program Manager (BPM), usually within Civil Engineer squadrons.
- Providing auditable records for environmental compliance, water quality programs, and regulatory inspections.
Related forms in the Air Force backflow program:
- AF Form 848: Inventory of Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Devices (for listing all devices on base).
- AF Form 845: Cross-Connection Information (often used alongside AF 843 for additional details or state-mandated reporting).
- Computerized systems like NexGen IT Program Management module or other approved CMMS may also be used.
Air Force Requirements for Backflow Prevention Testing
According to current Department of the Air Force guidance (DAFMAN 32-1067, Water and Fuel Systems, dated July 2025), bases in the U.S. must follow the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) Section 603 for cross-connection control. Fire protection systems have specific exemptions and follow NFPA standards instead.
Testing frequency:
- At minimum, annually.
- After any installation, cleaning, repair, or relocation.
- Certified technicians (military, civilian, or contracted) must perform the work.
- Results must be documented on AF Form 843, AF Form 845 (or state forms), and entered into the approved maintenance management system.
Every five years, installations conduct a full cross-connection survey of facilities and water-using equipment, documented on AF Form 848 or equivalent.
Only personnel with current backflow/cross-connection certification (state-approved or equivalent) are authorized to test devices. OCONUS locations may use AF Form 483 for certification.
How to Complete AF Form 843?
While the exact layout of the fillable PDF includes fields for device identification, test procedures, and results, typical sections cover:
- Device Information: Location, make/model, serial number, size, type of assembly, installation date, and hazard level.
- Test Details: Date of test, tester’s name and certification number, test kit information.
- Test Results: Static pressure, residual pressure, relief valve opening pressure (for RP devices), check valve performance, pass/fail status.
- Repairs/Maintenance: Any parts replaced, corrective actions taken.
- Certification Statement: Signature of the certified tester confirming the test followed approved procedures (e.g., USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research or manufacturer guidelines).
Download the official AF Form 843 PDF here:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/af843/af843.pdf
Always use the most current version from the official Air Force e-Publishing site (e-publishing.af.mil) to ensure compliance.
Why Proper Documentation on AF Form 843 Matters?
- Public Health Protection: Backflow events can introduce contaminants (chemicals, bacteria, or pollutants) into drinking water, posing risks to personnel, families, and the mission.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps meet Safe Drinking Water Act requirements, state plumbing codes, and DoD environmental standards.
- Audit Readiness: Provides clear records during environmental compliance assessments (e.g., ECAMP) or inspections.
- Liability Reduction: Demonstrates due diligence in maintaining water system integrity.
Failure to test and document properly can result in deficiencies noted during surveys, potential system shutdowns, or corrective action mandates.
Who Needs AF Form 843?
- Air Force Civil Engineer (BCE) personnel
- Base Backflow Program Managers (BPM)
- Certified backflow assembly testers (BATs)
- Facility managers responsible for water systems
- Contractors performing work on Air Force installations
Private plumbers or facility managers working on federal projects may also reference it when supporting Air Force contracts.
Best Practices for Backflow Prevention Programs on USAF Installations
- Maintain an up-to-date inventory using AF Form 848.
- Schedule testing proactively through the BPM.
- Ensure devices are installed with proper clearances for testing and maintenance.
- Use only certified testers and approved test kits.
- Retain records for the required retention period (check current DAFMAN or local policy).
- Integrate data into digital maintenance systems where approved.
For the latest policy, refer to DAFMAN 32-1067 (Water and Fuel Systems) available on the Air Force e-Publishing website.
Need the Form or More Guidance?
Download the current AF Form 843 directly from the official source:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/af843/af843.pdf
For questions about the Air Force Backflow Prevention Program, contact your local Civil Engineer Squadron or Backflow Program Manager. State-specific backflow certification and reporting requirements may apply in addition to AF forms.
Protecting the water supply is a shared responsibility that directly supports mission readiness and the health of the Air Force community.