ASSE 6040 study plan
ASSE 6040 · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Cross-Connection Control Concepts and Terminology & Backflow Prevention Assemblies and Devices
Define cross-connection, backflow, backsiphonage, and backpressure in your own words and classify ten example scenarios by type
Distinguish containment (premises isolation) from zone and individual outlet protection and state where each applies
Diagram the internal operation of an RPZ assembly, a reduced pressure principle detector assembly, and a double check assembly from memory
Rank the five common backflow protection methods by degree of hazard they address and justify each ranking
Your checkpoint
A one-page terminology and device comparison table covering at least 12 terms and 5 device types, self-quizzed to 90% accuracy
Backflow Prevention Assemblies and Devices & Field Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance
Identify the components and failure modes of RPZ, DCVA, PVB, AVB, and air gap assemblies
Explain the test procedures for each assembly type step by step, including gauge setup and required pressure differentials
Describe installation requirements for each device: orientation, drainage, freeze protection, and accessibility for testing
Practice writing a field test report that records readings, pass/fail results, and repair recommendations
Your checkpoint
A completed mock field test report for three assemblies with correct readings, pass/fail determinations, and a written repair note for one failed unit
Premises Isolation and Hazard Assessment & Public Health Significance of Cross-Connections
Conduct a mock premises survey that maps every water use, connection, and potential cross-connection on a sample facility
Classify each identified hazard as high, moderate, or low and match it to the minimum required protection
Explain how biological, chemical, and radiological contaminants enter potable water and describe at least four documented outbreak scenarios
Identify vulnerable populations and the public health consequences of unprotected cross-connections
Your checkpoint
A hazard assessment report for a sample facility with a site map, hazard classification table, and recommended protection for each connection
Codes, Standards, and Regulations & Program Development and Administration
Summarize the scope and key requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act and the role of the EPA and state primacy agencies
Locate and interpret the cross-connection provisions in a model plumbing code and a local ordinance
Outline the elements of a cross-connection control program: ordinance, administration, survey, testing, enforcement, and records
Draft the organizational chart and staffing responsibilities for a municipal program
Your checkpoint
A program framework document that cites at least four regulatory references and defines roles, enforcement steps, and testing frequency
Program Development and Administration & Records, Reporting, and Program Evaluation
Design a tester certification and recertification process, including qualification, examination, and continuing education requirements
Develop a records system that tracks assembly inventory, test history, and compliance status
Create a compliance escalation procedure for missed tests and failed assemblies
Define performance indicators that measure program effectiveness, such as compliance rate and survey coverage
Your checkpoint
A records and compliance manual section with a sample tracking spreadsheet schema, an escalation flowchart, and five measurable program indicators
Field Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance & Backflow Prevention Assemblies and Devices
Perform hands-on or simulated test procedures for RPZ, DCVA, and PVB assemblies and record all readings
Diagnose common test failures and specify the correct repair or replacement action
Explain annual testing requirements, tester calibration intervals, and documentation standards
Describe inspection procedures for new installations and for assemblies returned to service after repair
Your checkpoint
A testing log for five simulated assemblies with readings, diagnoses, corrective actions, and a summary of two recurring failure patterns
Codes, Standards, and Regulations & Premises Isolation and Hazard Assessment
Compare containment versus isolation requirements across at least three jurisdictions and explain the practical differences
Apply code requirements to resolve five complex premises scenarios involving fire systems, irrigation, and boiler makeup
Explain the roles of the authority having jurisdiction, the water purveyor, and the property owner in enforcement
Prepare written responses to common customer disputes about required protection
Your checkpoint
A code application worksheet answering five scenario questions with citations and a one-page customer response letter template
Cross-Connection Control Concepts and Terminology & Public Health Significance of Cross-Connections & Backflow Prevention Assemblies and Devices & Codes, Standards, and Regulations & Program Development and Administration & Premises Isolation and Hazard Assessment & Field Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance & Records, Reporting, and Program Evaluation
Review all domain outlines and consolidate notes into a single condensed reference sheet
Complete a timed practice examination covering all eight domains and score each section
Re-study the two weakest domains based on practice exam results
Rehearse explanations of terminology, device operation, and program administration aloud to confirm retention
Your checkpoint
A completed timed practice exam with a scored breakdown by domain and a written remediation plan for any domain below 80%
Milestones
Week 2: Score at least 85% on a self-made device identification and test procedure quiz covering all five assembly types
Week 4: Produce a hazard assessment and program framework that cite correct regulatory references and correctly classify all sample hazards
Week 6: Complete five simulated field tests with accurate readings, correct pass/fail calls, and appropriate corrective actions
Week 8: Achieve at least 80% overall on the full-length practice exam with no domain below 70%