One of the most recent and impactful developments in ASSE Backflow Tester Certification has been the alignment of our certification practices with evolving regulatory expectations. The ASSE 5110 Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification now requires a 50-question recertification exam, exceeding the minimum 25-question threshold outlined in ASSE Standard 5110, Section 9-2(C). This change reflects our commitment to maintaining high standards of competency among certified professionals.
This adjustment ensures that certified testers remain current with technical knowledge, safety protocols, and regulatory developments. It also supports our broader goal of elevating the professionalism and accountability of individuals working in backflow prevention. By raising the bar for recertification, we help ensure that testers are not only qualified but also consistently prepared to respond to real-world challenges in the field.
JOB TASK ANALYSIS AND PROGRAM REALIGNMENT
To ensure our certification exams remain valid and defensible, we recently conducted a comprehensive Job Task Analysis (JTA). The resulting report outlines the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities required of backflow testers and will inform future updates to the exam. This analysis was conducted in collaboration with subject matter experts and industry stakeholders to ensure relevance and accuracy.
Additionally, our Professional Qualifications department underwent a strategic realignment. This included the addition of new staff to support program growth, quality assurance, and stakeholder engagement. These changes have enabled us to respond more effectively to inquiries, streamline certification processes, and enhance the overall candidate experience.
ASSE-APPROVED SCHOOL RESPONSIBILITIES
As part of our quality assurance framework, ASSE approved schools play a vital role in upholding the integrity of the certification process.
These institutions are required to:
- Review and confirm the qualifications of all students before allowing them to enroll in your certification programs. This includes verifying prerequisites such as prior training, work experience, or licensure, where applicable.
- Maintain a secure and organized filing system that documents student eligibility, training records, and exam outcomes. These records must be readily accessible in the event of an ASSE audit.
- Ensure that all instructional staff are appropriately credentialed and that course delivery aligns with ASSE standards.
Schools must be prepared to demonstrate compliance with ASSE standards at any time; failure to do so may result in the loss of approval status. By maintaining thorough documentation and vetting student qualifications, approved schools help ensure that only qualified individuals enter the certification pipeline.
LOOKING AHEAD
As we continue to refine and expand our certification programs, our focus remains on maintaining the integrity of the ASSE 5110 credential, supporting certified professionals, and collaborating with ASSE approved schools and regulatory bodies. Toward the end of 2025, each school will be sent the new program guidelines to review. We kindly request that you sign and return the acknowledgement form located at the back of the booklet to ASSE. You will be provided with additional information later in the year.
Whether you’re a tester seeking recertification, an ASSE school preparing for an audit, or a professional interested in becoming an instructor or proctor, we encourage you to engage with our team and resources.
Together, we can ensure that backflow prevention remains a trusted and effective safeguard for public health. For more information, please visit www.asseplumbing.org.
