What is one major hazard associated with cross-connections?

Water contamination is a significant hazard associated with cross-connections because it involves the unintended connection between a potable (drinkable) water supply and a non-potable source. When a cross-connection occurs, there is a risk of backflow, where contaminated water can flow back into the clean water supply. This can lead to serious health risks, as the contaminants can carry pathogens or toxic substances, making the drinking water unsafe. In many regions, strict regulations are in place to prevent cross-connections to safeguard public health, highlighting the importance of addressing this hazard effectively.

In contrast, while wasting water, increased maintenance costs, and disruption of service may have implications in terms of efficiency, economics, and operational challenges, they do not pose the same direct health risk associated with contamination of drinking water supplies due to cross-connections.