FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is ASSE certification recognized in Missouri?

Yes, the ASSE is one of two organizations that can certify backflow testers in Missouri. The other is the ABPA, the American Backflow Prevention Association.

Are the training programs and tests the same for ASSE and ABPA?

While the training programs cover much of the same material there are differences in the tests each organization gives.

Both ASSE and ABPA* require approximately a week-long course for those being newly certified as backflow assembly testers. ASSE requires a three-hour re-certification course for currently certified testers. ABPA has no set hourly requirements for re-certification, but typically 8-12 hours of training are needed to learn the test procedures and trouble-shooting information that is covered on the exam.

The ASSE re-certification exam is 25 written questions and the certification exam is 100 written questions. The hands-on exam for both certification and re-certification in Missouri
involves testing a Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly, Double Check Assembly and
Pressure Vacuum Breaker.

ABPA has the same 125-question written exam for both certification and re-certification which include trouble-shooting questions. These trouble-shooting questions require knowledge of the Foundation for Cross Connection Control and Hydraulic Research's test procedures for the RP, DC (sight tube method) and PVB. The Double Check must be tested using the sight tube method.

(* Information regarding the ABPA exam is current as of 10/1/00.)

Is ASSE certification recognized nationally?

Yes, ASSE is the only American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited qualification standard for backflow testers in the industry and is recognized and accepted by many states and water purveyors.

How long is the ASSE certification valid?

Three years.

What types of information do I need to learn to be certified?

Principals of cross-connection control; knowledge of potential cross-connections and hazards; state and federal regulations; knowledge of ASSE Standards; knowledge of the operation, function, proper installation and application of various backflow prevention devices; and the ability to correctly field test backflow assemblies.

Want more information on backflow tester certification or re-certification?

If you have questions we haven't answered, give Kansas City Backflow a call at (816) 419-8087 and we'll be happy to answer your questions.