Revised RP/DC backflow standards available

ASSE's revised RP/DC Backflow Standards have been recognized by ANSI and were worked on in conjunction with FM, IAPMO, and the USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.

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The American Society of Sanitary Engineering's (ASSE) revised RP/DC Backflow Standards are now available. On Aug. 17, 2011, the American National Standard Institute (ANSI) recognized ASSE's four RP/DC Backflow Standards as American National Standards. These Standards were approved by ASSE's Board of Directors on Aug. 9, 2011.

ASSE's RP/DC Backflow Standards include: ASSE Standard #1013-2011, Performance Requirements for Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventers and Reduced Pressure Principle Fire Protection Backflow Preventers; ASSE Standard #1015-2011, Performance Requirements for Double Check Backflow Prevention Assemblies and Double Check Fire Protection Backflow Prevention Assemblies; ASSE Standard #1047-2011, Performance Requirements for Reduced Pressure Detector Fire Protection Backflow Prevention Assemblies; and ASSE Standard #1048-2011, Performance Requirements for Double Check Detector Fire Protection Backflow Prevention Assemblies.

These four documents, which are the most stringent, comprehensive and detailed standards of their type, were updated from the previous 2009 versions for consistency with current editions of referenced standards and manuals, and to accommodate additional assembly sizes. The RP/DC Working Group, which developed this standard revision, included consultants, installers, manufacturers, users, distributors and representatives from ASSE, the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), Factory Mutual (FM) and the USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research.

Each of the RP/DC Backflow Standards also allow for a one-year field evaluation for those jurisdictions that require it. Assemblies that successfully pass the ASSE One Year Field Test (1YT), which is performed by 1YT Testers who have met ASSE's rigorous qualifications, are marked with a specially designated ASSE 1YT Seal.

- Edited by Chris Vavra, Consulting-Specifying Engineer, www.csemag.com