Description

This course outlines the concepts of cross-connection and backflow; and the techniques and equipment used to protect cross-connections and to prevent backflow. It covers the components, operation, applications and testing basics for eight types of backflow prevention devices including the Air Gap, Barometric Loop, Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB), Hose-Bibb Vacuum Breaker (HBVB), Pressure Vacuum Breaker (PVB), Double Check Valve Assembly (DCVA), Residential Dual Check Valve (RDCV) and Reduced Pressure Zone Device (RPZD).  Understanding these concepts is essential to protect public water supplies and to comply with US federal and Pennsylvania state regulations.

At the completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Define cross-connection, backflow, backsiphonage and backpressure.
• Identify common cross-connections and explain why cross-connection control and backflow prevention are necessary.
• List potential causes for backsiphonage and backpressure and describe the conditions needed for backflow to occur.
• List and explain methods for backflow prevention.
• List eight types of backflow prevention devices and for each type:
  • Identify its schematic.
  • Explain its operation.
  • List its advantages and disadvantages.
  • Describe its application(s).
• List and explain indicators of backflow.
• Describe the methods for mitigating backflow events.
• Explain the regulatory basis for cross-connection control programs.
• Describe a typical backflow prevention program as outlined by the PA DEP Water Supply Manual.

Registration for this course entitles the student to course support from SkillWorks. After passing the final exam the registered student will also receive an official Continuing Education Course Certificate of Completion that will be accepted by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) for operator certification renewal for the licenses listed in the table of course details above.