11.2 Device Standards 1013, 1015, 1020, 1056

11.2 Device Standards 1013, 1015, 1020, 1056

Quick Answer: ASSE product (device) standards specify how backflow assemblies and devices must perform. The core testable set for ASSE 5110 is 1013 RP, 1015 DC, 1020 PVB, and 1056 SVB. Detector assemblies are 1047 RPDA and 1048 DCDA. Non-testable or limited devices you must still recognize include 1001 AVB, 1011/1052 hose-bibb vacuum breakers, and 1024 dual check. Never confuse these 10xx numbers with 5110 personnel certification.

Product standards vs personnel qualifications

Two parallel libraries exist under the ASSE brand:

A manufacturer lists an assembly to ASSE 1013 after design and laboratory evaluation against that product standard. A person becomes ASSE 5110 after training and examination against Series 5000 competencies. You may field-test a 1013-listed RP because you hold 5110 (and local acceptance)—not because your name is stamped on the product standard.

On the written exam, any option that says “ASSE 1013 certifies testers” or “ASSE 5110 is the RP device standard” is wrong by category, not by nuance.

Core memorization table (write this until automatic)

Practical exam focus: continuous testing of 1013, 1015, 1020, and 1056. Detector assemblies and non-testable devices appear more often as written identification and application items.

Why each number exists (performance idea, not full design manual)

1013 — Reduced pressure principle assembly (RP)

An RP provides high-hazard protection against backpressure and backsiphonage using two independently acting checks and a hydraulically dependent relief valve that maintains a zone at a lower pressure than supply. Product standard 1013 frames laboratory performance for that architecture. In the field you apply recognized test criteria (for example USC 10th: relief opening, check #1 strength relative to relief, check #2 tightness)—those numeric field criteria live in the procedure manual, while the product standard is what the listed hardware was built to meet.

1015 — Double check valve assembly (DC)

A DC uses two independently acting checks without an intermediate relief valve. It is not the default choice for high-hazard continuous protection where an RP is required. Product standard 1015 defines DC performance. Field testing confirms both checks hold to procedure criteria (commonly ≥ 1.0 psid tight under USC-style methods). Exam items love swapping 1015 with 1013 when the stem mentions “relief valve” or “zone of reduced pressure.”

1020 — Pressure vacuum breaker (PVB)

A PVB protects against backsiphonage (not continuous backpressure) with a check and a loaded air inlet that opens to atmosphere when supply pressure drops. Product standard 1020 is the PVB listing basis. Field tests address air-inlet opening and check tightness under a recognized procedure.

1056 — Spill-resistant vacuum breaker (SVB)

An SVB is the spill-resistant cousin of the PVB family—designed to reduce spillage while still providing atmospheric air-inlet protection appropriate to its listing and installation rules. Product standard 1056 is the number to lock to SVB. Classic distractor: calling the SVB 1020 or the PVB 1056. Orientation, elevation, and backpressure limitations still matter; the product number does not cancel installation rules.

1047 and 1048 — Detector assemblies

Detector assemblies combine mainline protection with a bypass path and meter so low flows (often unauthorized domestic takeoffs) register. Testers must recognize that detector testing involves main and bypass elements per the procedure—not a single “ignore the meter” check. Do not invent that 1047 is a non-testable AVB.

Non-testable and limited devices you still must name

The 5110 tester’s world is centered on testable assemblies with shutoff valves and test cocks. Programs still require you to recognize devices that are not annually gauge-tested the same way:

• 1001 AVB — atmospheric vacuum breaker; no field test cocks like an RP/DC/PVB assembly; correct application is about installation height, no continuous pressure, and no downstream shutoffs (per code/product rules).
• 1011 / 1052 hose-connection devices — protect hose outlets; replaceable devices, not the four practical assemblies.
• 1024 dual check — non-testable dual check (often residential or appliance isolation). Not the same as 1015 double check assembly.

If a question shows “dual check without test cocks” and offers 1015, reject it. 1015 implies a testable assembly configuration.

How listings, marks, and local approval interact

A device standard number on a data plate is not a blank check for every installation:

1. Listed to the correct standard for the intended protection (for example RP for the hazard that requires RP).
2. Approved by the local purveyor / AHJ — many utilities maintain approved-assembly lists by manufacturer and model.
3. Installed per manufacturer instructions and code — orientation, elevation, clearances, freeze protection, RP drainage.
4. Tested by a qualified tester using a recognized procedure and a calibrated gauge.

Failing any layer can take an assembly out of compliance even if the casting still says “ASSE 1013.”

Drill patterns for number-swap distractors

Study method that survives exam pressure

Do not memorize a paragraph. Memorize the table columns: number → name → testable yes/no → one distinguishing feature (relief, dual checks only, air inlet, detector meter, atmospheric only). Say them aloud in both directions: “1013 is RP” and “RP is 1013.” Then practice stems that bury the assembly type in a scenario (“high hazard chemical feed with potential backpressure”) and force you to choose the product standard that matches the required assembly type—not the personnel credential.

When Chapter 11.3 discusses USC 10th criteria, those numbers (2.0 psid relief, 5.0 psid check #1, and so on) are field-test acceptance criteria, not alternative names for the product standards. Keep shelves separate: 10xx = product, 51xx = people, manual criteria = how you pass/fail a test.