July 1, 2014

This position paper is presented as a united effort with the organizations listed below to enhance the safety of the drinking water and quality of cross connection control and backflow prevention programs throughout the world. We, the undersigned believe properly trained and certified backflow prevention assembly testers are of paramount importance to any effective cross connection control program. To further this goal we endorse and recommend the following as a minimum of best industry practices for backflow prevention assembly tester, training, certification and recertification.

PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS:

American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA), ASSE International (ASSE), Backflow Prevention Association of Australia (BPAA), Backflow Prevention Manufacturers Association (BPMA), International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), IAPMO Backflow Prevention Institute (IAPMO BPI), and United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States and Canada (UA).

TRAINING

• Should consist of a comprehensive training course in backflow prevention and cross connection control covering the range of knowledge required by the certifying authority. (Typically no less than 40 hours)
• Equivalent work and/or educational experience may be considered in lieu of the training course.

CERTIFICATION

• Should pass a 100 question multiple choice closed book written exam.
• A minimum passing percentage, weighted against the written exam, should be established. (Typically 70%)
• Closed book practical exam. Demonstrate proper field test procedure on RP, DC, PVB, and SVB assemblies₁.
• Practical exam should include assemblies in various conditions, including common failure modes.
• Practical and written exams should be developed and administered independent of the training course instructor of record.
• Certification should be valid for a maximum of 3 years.
• Certification applies to certificate holder only.

RE-CERTIFICATION

• Should pass a 100 question multiple choice closed book written exam tailored towards a tester with experience.
• A minimum passing percentage, weighted against the written exam, should be established. (Typically 70%)
• Closed book practical exam. Demonstrate proper field test procedure on RP, DC, PVB, and SVB assemblies.
• Practical exam should include assemblies in various conditions, including common failure modes.
• Practical and written exams should be developed and administered independent of the instructor of record.
• Certification should be valid for a maximum of 3 years.
• Certification applies to certificate holder only.

₁ RP - Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly; DC – Double Check Valve Backflow Prevention Assembly; PVB – Pressure Vacuum Breaker Backsiphonage Prevention Assembly; SVB – Spill-Resistant Pressure Vacuum Breaker Backsiphonage Prevention Assembly