BAT Backflow Assembly Tester Safety & Regulatory Compliance 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: An RPZ assembly's relief valve is continuously discharging during normal operation. What does this MOST likely indicate?
- The #2 check valve is fouled and leaking
- The differential pressure relief valve is stuck open
- Downstream pressure is higher than upstream pressure (Correct answer)
- The inlet shut-off valve is partially closed
Correct answer: Downstream pressure is higher than upstream pressure
Continuous relief valve discharge during normal operation typically means backpressure conditions exist, with downstream pressure exceeding upstream.
Question 2: Which ASSE standard covers the performance requirements for pressure vacuum breaker assemblies (PVBAs)?
- ASSE 1013 (Correct answer)
- ASSE 1015
- ASSE 1020
- ASSE 1048
Correct answer: ASSE 1013
ASSE 1013 establishes the performance requirements for pressure vacuum breaker assemblies used in cross-connection control.
Question 3: A tester notices the test cocks on an assembly are corroded and will not open. What is the correct course of action?
- Force them open with a wrench to complete the test
- Document the condition and report the assembly as untestable (Correct answer)
- Apply penetrating oil and wait 24 hours before testing
- Test the assembly using an alternative test method
Correct answer: Document the condition and report the assembly as untestable
If test cocks cannot be operated safely, the assembly should be documented as untestable and reported to the owner for repair or replacement.
Question 4: Under USC cross-connection control manual guidelines, what is the minimum acceptable air gap ratio for a potable water supply to a tank?
- 1x the effective pipe diameter, minimum 1 inch
- 2x the effective pipe diameter, minimum 1 inch (Correct answer)
- 3x the effective pipe diameter, minimum 2 inches
- 1.5x the effective pipe diameter, minimum 1 inch
Correct answer: 2x the effective pipe diameter, minimum 1 inch
The USC manual specifies an air gap of at least 2 times the effective pipe diameter with a minimum of 1 inch.
Question 5: A fire sprinkler system connection to the potable water supply requires which level of backflow protection per NFPA 13?
- Air gap only
- DCVA for non-chemical systems, RPZ for antifreeze systems (Correct answer)
- PVB for all fire suppression systems
- No backflow protection required for domestic sprinkler systems
Correct answer: DCVA for non-chemical systems, RPZ for antifreeze systems
NFPA 13 requires a DCVA for non-chemical fire systems and an RPZ for systems containing antifreeze or other additives.
Question 6: What personal protective equipment (PPE) is specifically required when testing assemblies with potential exposure to reclaimed water?
- Hard hat and steel-toed boots only
- Safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves at minimum (Correct answer)
- Full hazmat suit and respirator
- High-visibility vest and hearing protection
Correct answer: Safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves at minimum
Contact with reclaimed water requires at minimum eye protection and chemical-resistant gloves due to microbial and chemical contamination risk.
Question 7: Which document must a BAT maintain as proof of their authority to perform backflow assembly testing?
- A letter from the installing plumber
- A current valid tester certification from an approved program (Correct answer)
- A water utility customer account in their name
- An OSHA 10-hour safety card
Correct answer: A current valid tester certification from an approved program
A current valid certification from a recognized program (such as ASSE, AWWA, or state-approved equivalent) is required to legally perform backflow tests.
BAT Backflow Assembly Tester Safety & Regulatory Compliance 3
An RPZ assembly's relief valve is continuously discharging during normal operation.
What does this MOST likely indicate?