100+ Free ASSE 5110 Practice Questions

A 5110 Tester performs the annual field test required by the water purveyor and the AHJ on reduced pressure (RP), double check (DC), pressure vacuum breaker (PVB), and spill-resistant vacuum breaker (SVB) assemblies. The tester confirms that each check valve holds tight, that the differential pressure relief valve on an RP opens at the correct value, and that air inlets on a PVB or SVB open at or above the required pressure, then reports the result to the purveyor.

The ASSE 5110 written examination is 100 questions and requires a score of 70% or higher to pass. Candidates must also pass a hands-on practical exam that includes the field test procedure for RP (ASSE 1013), DC (ASSE 1015), PVB (ASSE 1020), and SVB (ASSE 1056) assemblies without notes or assistance.

The ASSE 5110 standard requires a minimum of five years documented practical experience in plumbing, pipefitting, mechanical, fire protection, or a related field. Candidates must also complete a minimum 40-hour ASSE-approved course before sitting for the written and practical exams. Some providers accept equivalent education or military experience in lieu of part of the five-year requirement; check with your ASSE-approved school.

ASSE 5110 certification is valid for three years. To maintain the credential, testers must complete an ASSE-approved recertification course and pass a recertification exam before the expiration date. Letting the certification lapse typically requires retaking a full initial course.

A reduced pressure principle (RP) assembly meeting ASSE 1013 contains two independently acting check valves and a differential pressure relief valve between them, so the zone between the checks discharges to atmosphere if either check fouls. A double check valve assembly (DC) meeting ASSE 1015 also has two checks but no relief valve. RPs protect against health hazards including backpressure; DCs are used only for non-health hazards.

Most jurisdictions and the USC Manual of Cross-Connection Control require the differential pressure gauge to be calibrated at least once every twelve months, and many purveyors require a calibration sticker on the gauge to accept the test report. Testers should also verify gauge accuracy in the field if a reading appears unusual or after the gauge has been dropped.

Primary references include the USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (FCCCHR) Manual of Cross-Connection Control (10th Edition), AWWA M14 Recommended Practice for Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control, EPA's Cross-Connection Control Manual (EPA 816-R-03-002), and the ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series 5000 standard along with the ASSE 1013, 1015, 1020, and 1056 device standards.