AF Form 845: Cross Connection Information – Download & Guide – Cross-connection control and backflow prevention remain critical components of safe drinking water systems on U.S. Air Force installations. AF Form 845, officially titled Cross Connection Information, serves as a key document in the Department of the Air Force’s (DAF) water protection program. It helps document the exact location and details of potential or existing cross-connections and associated backflow prevention devices.
This article explains the purpose of AF Form 845, its role within the broader backflow prevention program, how it integrates with related forms like AF Form 848 and AF Form 843, and provides practical guidance for USAF civil engineers, backflow program managers, and facility personnel.
What Is a Cross-Connection in Air Force Water Systems?
A cross-connection is any actual or potential physical connection between a potable (drinking) water system and any non-potable source, chemical, or contaminant that could allow backflow into the safe water supply. Common examples on military bases include connections to irrigation systems, fire suppression lines, industrial processes, aircraft wash racks, or laboratory equipment.
Backflow—the unintended reverse flow of water or contaminants—can occur due to backsiphonage or backpressure. Protecting against it is a regulatory requirement under the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) Section 603 and aligns with EPA guidelines for public water systems. Air Force policy mandates a robust cross-connection control program to safeguard personnel health and mission readiness.
Purpose of AF Form 845 (Cross Connection Information)
AF Form 845 is used to record detailed location and identification information for each cross-connection and its protective backflow prevention device. It typically includes a sketch or diagram showing the precise placement of the device within the facility.
Key uses include:
- Documenting device accessibility (e.g., height, clearance from walls) during installation or surveys.
- Supporting five-year water system backflow prevention/cross-connection surveys.
- Recording data during inspections, testing, repairs, or relocations.
- Integrating with installation GIS utilities mapping for long-term tracking.
The form pairs with:
- AF Form 848 – Inventory of Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Devices (used for overall inventory and survey results).
- AF Form 843 – Backflow Prevention Device Inspection Data (records test results).
One AF Form 845 is generally completed per device. Data may also be maintained in approved computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), such as NexGen IT or legacy ACESPM, or state-mandated forms where required.
Regulatory Framework and Current Guidance (as of 2025–2026)
The primary governing document is DAFMAN 32-1067 (Water Systems), updated as of July 1, 2025. It outlines requirements for plumbing systems, backflow prevention, and wastewater management on DAF installations.
Key provisions related to AF Form 845:
- Device Accessibility — New and existing backflow devices must be installed for easy access (typically 1–5 feet above floor/grade, with specified clearances) and documented on AF Form 845 or equivalent state forms. Locations should also appear in the installation’s GIS utilities database.
- Testing and Inspection — Testable devices require testing after installation, repair, cleaning, or relocation, and at least annually. Results are documented on AF Form 843 and referenced on AF Form 845. Certified technicians perform this work under the Backflow Program Manager (BPM).
- Survey Frequency — Full cross-connection surveys of all facilities (including non-government owned ones connected to DAF water systems) occur at least every five years, with results tracked via AF Form 848 and supporting AF Form 845 documentation.
- Design Priority — Civil engineers must first attempt to eliminate the cross-connection entirely before installing protective devices, per UFC 3-420-01 and UPC guidelines.
Fire protection systems have specific exemptions or alternative requirements. Overseas installations follow host-nation rules where applicable, while U.S. bases prioritize the DAFMAN, then UPC, then IPC (in that order) when conflicts arise.
Who Uses AF Form 845?
- Base Civil Engineer (BCE) and staff
- Backflow Program Manager (BPM)
- Certified backflow prevention assembly testers and inspectors
- Facility managers and shop supervisors (e.g., corrosion control, vehicle maintenance, labs)
- Contractors performing surveys or maintenance
The form supports compliance with NPDES permits, environmental assessments, and overall potable water system integrity.
How to Obtain and Use AF Form 845?
The current official version is available as a fillable PDF from the Air Force e-Publishing site:
Direct Download: AF Form 845 PDF
Tips for Completion:
- Complete one form per backflow prevention device or cross-connection point.
- Include a clear sketch/diagram of the device’s location.
- Note accessibility measurements and any special conditions.
- Cross-reference with AF Form 848 (inventory) and AF Form 843 (test data).
- Maintain records in both hard copy and digital CMMS systems as directed by the local BPM.
- Update the form after any installation, repair, relocation, or survey.
Always follow the latest version of DAFMAN 32-1067 and local supplements for detailed block-by-block instructions, as the form itself is straightforward but must align with UPC criteria for hazard classification.
Why Proper Documentation Matters on Air Force Bases?
Accurate use of AF Form 845 helps prevent:
- Contamination events that could affect mission-critical operations or personnel health.
- Regulatory violations during environmental compliance audits.
- Costly repairs or system shutdowns from undetected backflow issues.
It also ensures devices remain accessible for annual testing and emergency response.
Best Practices for Air Force Cross-Connection Control Programs
- Prioritize elimination of cross-connections in design and renovations.
- Maintain an up-to-date inventory (AF Form 848) and location details (AF Form 845).
- Schedule and document annual testing with certified personnel.
- Integrate data into GIS and CMMS for quick access.
- Train facility operators on potential hazards in their areas.
- Coordinate with state/local authorities where their forms or certifications apply.
For the most current guidance, consult DAFMAN 32-1067 (July 2025 edition) and your installation’s Backflow Program Manager.
Download AF Form 845 Today
Click here to download the official AF Form 845 – Cross Connection Information PDF directly from Air Force e-Publishing:
https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/af845/af845.pdf
Related Resources:
- DAFMAN 32-1067: Water Systems
- AF Form 848: Inventory of Cross-Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Devices
- AF Form 843: Backflow Prevention Device Inspection Data
Maintaining meticulous records with AF Form 845 is a straightforward but vital step in protecting the drinking water supply for Airmen, Guardians, civilians, and families on U.S. Air Force installations.
This article is for informational purposes and reflects publicly available Department of the Air Force guidance as of 2026. Always verify the latest publications on the official e-Publishing site and consult your local civil engineering squadron or Backflow Program Manager for installation-specific requirements.