Recordkeeping, Reporting, and Safety
Records and reporting
Accurate records protect public health and the tester. Maintain test reports with assembly make, model, size, serial number, location, test readings, pass/fail, tester name, certification number, and date. Know notification requirements for failed tests, repairs, and installations, and the retention period required by the jurisdiction. Reports go to the water purveyor, property owner, and health authority as required. Traps: incomplete serial numbers, missing readings, unsigned reports, and late submission. A report without all readings is not defensible.
Safety
Field work involves pressure, water, electricity, and confined spaces. Use PPE (eye protection, gloves, safety footwear), depressurize before disconnecting hoses, control discharge to prevent slips and water damage, and follow lockout/tagout when working near equipment. Treat pits and vaults as confined spaces - test the atmosphere and follow entry procedures. Avoid cross-contamination when handling test water and hoses.
Traps in questions
Watch for questions that reward speed over documentation, or that omit safety steps such as depressurizing. Also watch for confusion between who receives the report and who retains it.
Rule of thumb
If it is not documented with all readings, date, and certification, it did not happen - complete, sign, and submit every report.
Worked example: A tester finishes a passing RP test but forgets the relief valve reading. The report is incomplete; retest or record the missing value before submitting.