Backflow Prevention: Assembly Testing Information <back to homepage>
Backflow prevention assemblies (BFPAs), as required by state and city regulations, must be tested annually to ensure functionality. Below is helpful information regarding finding a certified tester and associated information. If your question was not answered, please e-mail
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and we will answer your question as expediently as possible.
How To Find A Tester:
Currently, the Backflow Prevention Program (BPP) cannot recommend testers nor does the city keep a list of testers. If you are in need of a tester you can find one by:
- Consulting With Your Current Plumber or Contractor - these professions usually hold their own certification or know someone who can test your assembly. PLEASE NOTE:Whomever you select to test your BFPA must be certified to do so. Your plumber or contractor may or may not be certified. Testers must hold a current certification from either:The American Backflow Prevention Association or The American Society of Sanitary Engineers
- Looking In The Yellow Pages- look under "backflow"
- Searching Online- using keywords such as "Colorado," "Backflow," "Testers," "Cross-Connection," etc.
- Checking Your Assembly - Generally your existing BPFA has been tested before and should have a tag from the previous tester which shows the tester/ testing companies' phone number.
- Go to The Colorado Division Of Fire Safety Web site- if you're looking for someone who can also test assemblies on fire lines click on "Fire Suppression Systems" and then on "Contractor Lists" to download a PDF for the current year's Backflow Contractors.
How Assemblies Are Tested:
Backflow Prevention Assemblies (BFPAs) are tested by certified testers who use gauges to either add or relieve pressure to determine if internal parts are working properly. If the checks and springs are working within a given range, the BFPA passes the test. If not, the BFPA fails. This information is recorded on a BFPA test report. These test reports are sent (generally by the tester) to the BPP.
What Test Form Should Be Used?:
The City of Boulder's BPP uses a 
Universal Test Form created by and used/accepted by backflow programs across the state of Colorado. Forms must be filled out completely. Incompletely or incorrectly filled out forms may be cause for the form to be returned to the tester.
Passing Tests:
When the BFPA passes the test, the tester must submit a copy to the BPP within ten days from the test date. This information will be recorded by the program and testing will not be required until the following year.
Failing Tests:
BFPAs that fail a test must be repaired and/or replaced immediately. The BPP must be verbally notified the same day and the failing test should be submitted within 3 days. If the repair or replacement cannot be made immediately, the BPP must be notified and a compliance plan must be established.
Please note: As a failed BFPA test represents a direct cross-connection, failure to repair/replace and test an assembly can result in suspension of water service should the BPP determine that the cross-connection represents an immediate risk to public health.
Keeping Copies Of Test Reports:
Article 12 of the Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulation states that BFPA test reports should be kept for three years.
Tester Certification Information:
Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers must be certified by one of two National Certifying Agencies:
- The American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA)
- The American Society of Sanitary Engineers (ASSE)
Both organizations re-test every three years and anyone testing a BFPA must have a current certification on the date of the test.
Contact The Backflow Prevention Program By:
E-mail:
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Phone: 303-413-7401 OR 303-413-7400
Fax: 303-530-1137
Mail: 5605 N 63rd St. Boulder, CO 80301
Last Updated on Thursday, 17 September 2009 14:56
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