Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control Programs

Click here to download the entire Backflow Prevention Device Tester training calendar for 2008.

Questions and inquiries about NEWWA's backflow prevention and cross connection control programs should be directed to Jim Holeva, NEWWA’s cross connection control coordinator. Questions regarding your current or expired certifications should be directed to Linda Smith or Jeanne Gilpin.

NEWWA offers specialized training and certification in cross connection control surveying as well as backflow prevention device inspector/testing. Individuals who have little or no knowledge in cross connection, plumbing, pipefitting, or waterworks should consider taking the introduction to cross connection control training or the cross connection control surveying training first. NEWWA utilizes the U.S.EPA Cross-Connection Control Manual, which is available online at www.epa.gov/safewater for your review and Recommended Practice for Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control M14, Third Edition, which is available through the AWWA bookstore. Both of the manuals are provided as part of training.

To view a PowerPoint presentation on NEWWA's Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control Programs, which includes photos and examples of training materials, click here.

Introduction to Cross Connection Control

This course covers the basic fundamentals of cross connection control. Such as: what is a cross connection and the health hazards associated with them? Why do they exist? The types of programs used to protect a public water system from the dangers of cross connections, and how backflow prevention device function. Also, the hydraulics of backflow is discussed as well as the types of cross connections and control measures.

Cross Connection Control Surveyor Training and Certification

This course provides an individual with the knowledge to identify cross connections, determine the degree of hazards associated with a cross connection, develop and administer a cross connection control program for the protection of a public water system and/or public health of water consumers. The training will include a review of state regulations and plumbing codes, plan review, and report writing. Individuals will also receive instruction on how to conduct a cross connection survey. A field trip is involved. For those individuals who wish to become certified as a NEWWA surveyor, a written examination is given at the end of the training. Connecticut and Massachusetts require individuals conducting cross connection surveying to be certified. A prerequisite for this training is required. Individuals must have taken the introductory cross connection training or have a valid backflow prevention device inspector/tester certification.

For complete course descriptions, including prerequisites, please visit our course catalog:
Introduction to Cross Connection Control
Cross Connection Control Surveyor Training

Backflow Prevention Device Inspectors/Tester Training and Certification

The course is presented from a practical viewpoint with a blend of classroom and hands-on training. The concepts of a cross connection and the health hazards related to them will be discussed as will the types of backflow, the causes of backflow, how to protect a cross connection, and how to test three types of backflow prevention devices. The philosophies and devices of fixture outlet protection and containment protection are presented. The different degrees of hazard will be discussed and how they relate to choosing appropriate devices. Both large and small devices will be covered. You will receive hands-on experience on devices including troubleshooting failing devices based on thorough information presented on how backflow prevention device function. For those individuals who wish to become certified as a NEWWA Backflow Prevention Device Inspector/Tester, a written and practical examination is given at the end of the training. You must be certified to test a backflow prevention device assembly in all states.

NEWWA certification is universally accepted. However, some states such as Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York require state certifications to test backflow prevention devices. Before conducting any test of backflow prevention devices, contact your state drinking water program or pluming codes.

Backflow Prevention Device Inspectors/Tester Recertification Training

NEWWA offers recertification training for individuals who will not be able to meet the testing recertification requirements of 50 tests in a 3-year period. This also applies to individuals who have let their certification expire but wish to become recertified. This is a 10-hour review course with examinations at the end of the training.

For complete course descriptions, including prerequisites, visit our course catalog:
Backflow Prevention Device Inspectors/Tester Training

NEWWA Certified Backflow Prevention Device Inspectors/Testers, and Certified Cross Connection Control Surveyors

Below are lists of individuals who are currently certified by NEWWA as Backflow Prevention Device Inspectors/Testers, and Cross Connection Control Surveyors.

The purpose of these documents is to provide a list of individuals who currently hold a valid NEWWA certification. These documents are for information purposes only and not to be used for solicitation purposes. The list is organized by state for simplicity and is based on address information. The list is sorted alphabetically by last name within each state.

New England Water Works Backflow Prevention Device Inspector/Tester Certification, and Cross Connection Control Surveying Certification are universally recognized. However, some states such as but not limited to: Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York require individuals to be state certified. Individuals listed in a particular state may not be certified to test backflow prevention devices or perform cross connection control surveys in that specified state without state certification. Other states do not have a separate state certification and accept NEWWA certification. Check with your state's drinking water program or plumbing code for further information regarding certification requirements.

If you have any questions or you see an error in the information, please contact Linda Smith.

Backflow Prevention Device Inspectors/Testers by state (as of March 2008):
Connecticut
Massachusetts
Maine
New Hampshire
New Jersey
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Vermont
All Additional States

Cross Connection Control Surveyors organized by state (as of March 2008)