IA Backflow Prevention & Cross-Connection Control 3

Question 1

How frequently should testable backflow prevention assemblies typically be tested according to most water authority requirements?

Accepted Answer

Annually, and after any repair, modification, or relocation

Answer

Every five years as part of routine plumbing inspection

Answer

Every two years or when a pressure drop is detected

Answer

Only at time of initial installation and commissioning

Question 2

What instrument does a certified backflow tester use to field-test assemblies?

Accepted Answer

A differential pressure gauge test kit with hoses connected to the assembly's test cocks

Answer

A digital flow meter installed inline with the supply pipe

Answer

A water quality pH and conductivity meter

Answer

A standard pressure gauge connected to the downstream outlet

Question 3

When testing an RPZ assembly, what condition indicates the relief valve is functioning correctly?

Accepted Answer

The zone between the check valves is maintained at least 2 psi lower than supply pressure, with the relief valve opening if that differential is lost

Answer

The relief valve opens only when supply pressure drops to zero psi

Answer

The relief valve remains permanently closed regardless of downstream pressure changes

Answer

The relief valve opens whenever downstream pressure exceeds supply pressure by any amount

Question 4

Who is authorized to officially test and certify backflow prevention assemblies?

Accepted Answer

A certified backflow prevention assembly tester approved by the local water authority or state agency

Answer

Any licensed plumber holding a journeyman or master license

Answer

The irrigation system designer of record for the project

Answer

Any Irrigation Association Certified Irrigation Technician (CIT)

Question 5

What is the correct protocol when a backflow prevention assembly fails a field test?

Accepted Answer

Remove the assembly from service, repair or replace it, retest, and certify before returning it to service

Answer

Increase downstream pressure temporarily to force the device to achieve a passing reading

Answer

Document the failure and leave the assembly in service until the next scheduled annual test

Answer

Install a second backflow preventer immediately downstream as a redundant backup device

Question 6

In most U.S. jurisdictions, who bears primary legal responsibility for ensuring backflow prevention devices on a private irrigation system are properly installed, tested, and maintained?

Accepted Answer

The property owner or their authorized representative

Answer

The water utility company serving the property

Answer

The state health department or environmental agency

Answer

The irrigation contractor who originally installed the system

Question 7

Which scenario would require an RPZ assembly rather than a PVB for irrigation backflow protection?

Accepted Answer

A commercial irrigation system supplied by a reclaimed or recycled water source

Answer

A residential turf irrigation system supplied entirely by potable city water with no chemical application

Answer

A small residential drip system irrigating a non-edible ornamental garden

Answer

A sports field irrigation system using potable water with no fertilizer injection