Webinar on Demand: Modifications to Assemblies that Invalidate USC Approval (2019)
Learn why most modifications to a USC Approved backflow prevention assembly invalidate its approval. Review the USC Approval process, so to understand why the USC Foundation takes a stringent position on modifications of Approved assemblies. And, understand why, for example, simple modifications like changing shutoff valves can invalidate its USC Approval. Watch Today!
2019 USC List of Approved Bacfklow Prevention Assemblies Book Available Now
The 8.5” x 11” printed copy of the USC List includes every assembly currently approved by the USC Foundation thru January 16, 2019, buy it today! The USC Foundation encourages everyone to access the
USC List digitally for up-to-the-minute changes.
Cross Talk Archives: Spring 2017 now available
Learn how to repair a USC approved assembly without invalidating its USC approval. Plus, articles about passing relief valve readings, do "failed" assemblies suggest that backflow occurs and minimum clearance recommendations for assemblies. Download Now!
Cross Talk Archives: Winter 2017 now available
This issue explains the importance of maintaining a system and internal protection program by an administrative authority. Plus, articles about the various certification opportunities at Foundation training events, the importance of testing assemblies annually and introducing an updated field test form that includes fields for Type II detector assemblies. Download Now!
2018 USC List of Approved Bacfklow Prevention Assemblies Book Available Now
The 8.5” x 11” printed copy of the USC List includes every assembly currently approved by the USC Foundation thru February 22, 2018, buy it today! The USC Foundation encourages everyone to access the
USC List digitally for up-to-the-minute changes.
Cross Talk Archives: Autumn 2016 now available
This issue explains what unintended results can occur in a water system when a backflow prevention assembly is installed in a water system. In addition, articles about gifting an endowment to the USC Foundation, available complimentary webinars on demand, the availability of Working Together for Safe Water on You Tube and the availability of the 2017 USC List. Download Now!
The Hydraulics of How Backflow Occurs and How to Prevent It
Gain a foundation in hydraulic concepts to help understand how backflow occurs. Realize how the potable water system is susceptible to backflow and what methods can be taken to help protect the drinking water system. And, learn which backflow prevention assemblies may be used under which hydraulic conditions and degrees of hazard. Watch Today!
Backflow Tester Workshop, January 16, 2018
At this one day hands-on event, participants will have an opportunity to review the field test procedures and diagnostic scenarios found in the Manual of Cross-Connection Control, Tenth Edition with Foundation staff. And, the Los Angeles County field test procedures will be also demonstrated for attendees who may be recertifying with the county. Sign up today!
Cross Talk Archives: Summer 2016 now available
This issue explains what the term 'drip' means in the field test procedure for the double check valve backflow prevention assembly. In addition, articles about how assemblies should be maintained when installed on recycle water systems, what additions to the test cock invalidate USC approval and a preview of the 2017 training schedule. Download Now!
Irrigation Systems and Winterizing Webinar
Available on Demand
Discover that not all irrigation systems are the same; some systems include fertilizer injection and/or chemigation while others do not. Learn which type of backflow prevention assemblies are acceptable for different types of irrigation systems. Plus, learn how to winterize irrigation systems to prevent any damage to backflow prevention assemblies. Learn More
Fourth Printing Corrections
With the continued success of the Manual of Cross-Connection Control, Tenth Edition the USC Foundation will soon be receiving shipments of the fourth printing of the book. The Foundation has posted a document detailing the minor typographical errors that were corrected in the fourth printing. Download Now
Cross Talk Archives: Spring 2016 now available
This issue discusses the composition of backflow prevention detector assemblies and how to record their field test results. Plus, articles about testing assemblies that are installed vertically, an overview of the webinars on demand series and a guide to certification requirements in Southern California. Download Now
Recycled Water Shutdown Test Webinar
Available On Demand
Water conservation is an important part of any water supplier’s program. So, in many areas recycled water systems are being put to use. Hear about the cross-connection issues associated with recycled water systems and the fact that dual plumbed systems (those plumbed with potable drinking water along with recycled water) must be tested periodically to ensure that there are no cross-connections between the two systems. Methods used to test the dual plumbed systems for cross-connections will be discussed including the pressure test, shutdown test and dye test. Learn More
New Webinar On Demand Video Added
Available for a limited time, Regulations and Plumbing Codes, Webinar On Demand video. Understand the different regulations and codes that relate to backflow prevention assemblies and cross-connection control at a national and local level. Learn in what ways federal regulations, like the Safe Drinking Water Act, address maintaining and protecting the nation’s drinking water supplies. Plus, find out how plumbing codes accepted throughout the United States, address backflow prevention. Learn More
Update Sample Field Test Form
To help backflow prevention assembly testers, the Foundation has updated its sample field test form found in the Manual of Cross-Connection Control, Tenth Edition to include Type II assemblies. Now, the sample field test form accommodates test results for a Double Check Detector Assembly-Type II and Reduced Pressure Principle Detector Assembly-Type II all on one single sheet. Download Now
Cross Talk Archives: Winter 2016 now available
This Winter 2016 issue discusses how installing a recycled or grey water system may inadvertently create the possibility for cross-connections if proper protections are not taken. Plus, articles about installing a backflow prevention assembly in a vault or pit, using the Microsoft Excel version of the USC List and explaining the reason why the USC Foundation does not have a “Seal of Approval.” Download Now
Cross Talk Archives: Autumn 2015 now available
The Autumn 2015 issue discusses preparing assemblies for freezing temperatures; including winterizing water pipes during the cold season. Also mentioned are complimentary webinars for Foundation members, testing detector assemblies and USC student scholarship recipients. Download Now
Special Notice Added to Online Archive
Special Notice 15-001 has been added to the Special Notice Archive. All Special Notices are made available exclusively to USC Foundation Members in their first year of publication. After a year all Special Notices are published on the Foundation’s website for everyone to view.
2017 Training Events Announcement
For 2017, the Foundation will be offering 4 Tester training courses, 4 Specialist training courses and 5 Live Webinars. For the first time ever, the Foundation will be offering a Specialist course in the Fall. And, two new live webinar topics will be available: The USC Approval Program and Irrigation Systems and Winterizing. We hope you will join us in 2017. Learn More
Cross Talk Archives: Summer 2015 now available
The Summer 2015 issue discusses the results of oversizing a backflow prevention assembly. Plus, a review about why the 3.0 PSID buffer recommendation found in the Manual of Cross-Conneciton Control, Ninth Edition was eliminated for the Tenth Edition. Along with articles about Foundation membership benefits and events attended by Foundation staff. Download Now
Next retest date, January 13, 2017
Unfortunately, there are no more scheduled restest dates for 2016. But, the USC Foundaiton has added its first retest date for 2017. For more information about retesting please click here. Rememeber, all attendees are eligible to retake the exam for up to 12 months after initially taking a Foundation training course.
New Webinar On Demand Video Added
Available for a limited time, Cross-Connection Control Surveys, Webinar On Demand video. Learn how to prepare and execute a site survey. Using photos of actual sites, lean how to identify cross-connections, determine the degree of hazard and decide what type of backflow protection is any, is necessary. Learn More
Two new Webinar On Demand Videos Added
Now available Different Facilities; Different Cross-Connections webinar on demand that discusses a number of different types of facilities and the types of cross-connections that may be expected at these locations. And, How the Use of Equipment Results in Cross-Connections webinar on demand that discusses how the use of everyday equipment like boilers and carbonators may create cross-connection to the potable water lines. Learn More
New Webinar On Demand Video Added
For a limited time, Grey Water & Recycled Water Shutdown Test webinar is available for viewing. Discusses the cross-connection issues associated with grey water systems. Recycled water systems are discussed and the fact that dual plumbed systems must be tested periodically to ensure that there are no cross-connections between the two systems. Learn More
Cross Talk Archives: Spring 2015 now available
The Spring 2015 issue outlines the requirements and benefits of USC Approval program field test sites. Plus, an introduction to the new Foundation online store, clarification regarding unofficial statements, using the USC List to verify approval along with a description of the 'notes' field and undersizing backflow prevention assemblies. Download Now
Tester Certification in Southern California
After completing a course for field testing backflow prevention assemblies, a Tester may be interested in certification. Most local health or water authorities require a tester to be certified before field testing any assemblies in their jurisdictions. So, the USC Foundation has put together a helpful guide on
Southern California counties certification requirements to help Testers start the process. View Now
Webinars On Demand Available Now
The first of the USC Foundation's Webinars On Demand series is available now! The Los Angeles & California Codes and Regulations webinar is available to purchase for a limited time. The Foundation understands that it may be difficult for many to sit and watch a 3 or 6-hour live webinar in one sitting so now anyone can conveniently watch at their own pace. Learn More
Cross Talk Archives: Winter 2015 now available
The Winter 2015 issue takes a look at the lead-free assemblies and designations on the USC List of Approved Backflow Prevention Assemblies. The issue also includes an introduction to the Foundation's One-Day Update Webinars, installing spools on an assembly and announcing the addition of DCDA-II/RPDA-II to the USC List. Download Now
Memo Added: Modifications to any
USC Approved Backflow Prevention Assemblies
Modifying a backflow prevention assembly is not uncommon but it may invalidate the USC approval. The Foundation has made available a document outlining its position on modifications to USC approved assemblies. The document highlights chapter 10.1.1.1.7 in the Manual of Cross-Connection Control, Tenth Edition that addresses modifications to USC approved assemblies. Download Memo Now
2016 USC List of Approved Bacfklow Prevention Assemblies Book Available Now
The 8.5” x 11” printed copy of the USC List includes every assembly currently approved by the USC Foundation thru January 20, 2016. Click HERE to buy now. The USC Foundation encourages everyone to access the
USC List digitally for up-to-the-minute changes.
Cross Talk Archives: Autumn 2014 now available
The Autumn 2014 issue takes a look at the USC Foundation's recognition of its charter and 25-year members. The issue also includes an obituary of Foundation friend Al Jorgensen, discussing the usefulness of the No.1 test cock on a double check assembly and more about the Foundation's last 70 years. Download Now
Special Notice 15-001 now available to Members only
Special Notice 15-001 has been issued and mailed out exclusively to USC Foundation members. All Special Notice's are made available to Members in their first year of publication. If you are interested in joining the USC Foundation Membership Program click HERE.
After a year all Special Notices are published on the Foundation's website for everyone to view.
Special Notice's Added to Online Archive
Special Notice 13-001, 14-001 and 14-002 have been added to the Special Notice Archive. All Special Notice’s are made available exclusively to USC Foundation Members in their first year of publication. After a year all Special Notices are published on the Foundation’s website for everyone to view.
Cross Talk Archives: Summer 2014 now available
The Summer 2014 issue celebrates the USC Foundation's 70th Anniversary by taking a look back at its history and major milestones. The issue also includes articles about field testing temporary assemblies, asks the question whether a failed assembly prevents backflow and takes a look at the Approval of Backflow Preventers brochure. Download Now.
2016 One Day Update Seminars Announced
The Foundation has announced its 2016 One Day Update Seminars schedule. New topics for 2016 include Hands-on Field Test Procedures, Grey Water Systems & Recycled Water Shutdown Test, Different Facilities; Different Cross-Connections, How Equipment Creates Cross-Connections and Cross-Connection Control Surveys. All dates are available for registration and more information about the seminars may be found HERE. All USC Foundation members receive 20% discount on training courses and seminars.
USC Glass Tap Water Bottle Now Available
Help the environment and display your USC pride all in one reusable bottle. The 22 oz. glass bottle encourages everyone to think twice before reaching for another bottled water and instead educates on the facts about tap water. Buy Yours Today!
2016 Training Course Dates Announced for Los Angeles
With three training dates left for 2015 the Foundation has announced its 2016 training course scheduled for courses taking place in Los Angeles. All dates are available for registration and may be found by visiting the homepage of this site and you may sign-up for training courses here. Remember all USC Foundation members receive 20% discount on training courses and seminars.
Cross Talk Archives: Spring 2014 now available
The Spring 2014 issue explains the installation guidelines for backflow prevention assemblies, an obituary for USC Foundation friend Ernie Havlina, available certification at Training Courses and highlighting the Cross-Connection in Household Plumbing Brochure. Download Now.
USC Foundation Online Store Now Open!
The Foundation is happy to announce that its redesigned online store is now available. Customers may now conveniently shop for training courses, One Day Update seminars and other training tools. Plus, Foundation Members will now receive discounted pricing immediately after signing up for an account to verify membership. Shop Today!
Cross Talk Archives: Winter 2014 now available
The Winter 2014 issue explains the installation of lead-free spare parts on USC Foundation Approved Assemblies along with articles about practicing at the Foundation lab, 2014 USC List and highlighting the Working Together for Safe Water brochure. Download Now.
Specialist Training Course in Austin, TX
The Foundation will be hosting a Specialist Training Course in Austin, Texas on April 20-24, 2015. The course is designed to train those who might be involved in administering a cross-connection control program. Subjects covered in this course include: policies and procedures, rules and regulations, record keeping, public relations, plan checks and site surveys. Fill out an order form to sign-up today!
One Day Update Seminars Available in Webinar format beginning in April
Beginning with April's One Day Update Seminar (Los Angeles & California Codes and Regulations) the Foundation will begin offering live webinars of its One Day Update Seminars. Using the service GoToWebinar the Foundation will make available its seminars to anyone with a Internet connection and a computer or mobile device.
Those attendees who wish to participate via the webinar will receive a link after registering for the course. Pricing will remain the same whether the attendee chooses to participate via the webinar or attends the class in person.
USC Foundation policy is that each person viewing the webinar must register. Only registered participants will receive CEU certificates.
For more information about One Day Update Seminars click HERE.
For questions please contact the Foundation office.
USC Foundation Member Recognitions
As part of our 70 Year Celebration, the Foundation recognized those Member agencies that have been with the USC Foundation’s Membership Program since it’s inception in 1967 in addition to those members who continue to support the program after 25-years. The Foundation held two events to recognize those members. In November, at the Southern California Water Utilities Association (SCWUA) luncheon meeting, the Foundation honored its charter members. And, in December, the Foundation recognized those members who have continued to support the Foundation membership program for more than 25 years by hosting a reception in its offices at USC. Click HERE for photos of both events.
ABPA Certification Exam After Tester Course for 2015
For 2015, the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) will be administrating a certification exam on the Saturday's of the USC Foundation Tester Training Courses. Course dates may be found on the USC Foundation's homepage HERE.
The USC Foundation reached out to the ABPA to schedule the exam the day after the Tester Training course to facilitate attendees in the class who may be interested in becoming ABPA certified testers. The ABPA exam will take place at the same location as the course. For information about becoming ABPA Tester Certified click HERE.
Students who are taking the Tester Training course will be more than welcome to return on Saturday and take the ABPA testers certification exam. Please note the ABPA exam is NOT part of the USC Tester Training Course and it will be administered by ABPA proctors.
Added Retest Date
A retest examination has been scheduled for February 3, 2015. The retest will be taking place at the USC Foundation laboratory. Click HERE for more information.
Cross Talk Archives: Autumn 2013 now available
The Autumn 2013 issue takes an inside look into the USC Foundation's Approval Process of backflow preventers along with articles about One Day Update Seminars, 25-Year Foundation Members and gage squirting. Download Now.
Added Retest Date
A retest examination has been scheduled for November 14, 2014. The retest will be taking place at the USC Foundation laboratory. Click HERE for more information.
The Foundation celebrates its 70th Anniversary!
September 2014 marks the Foundation's 70th anniversary. Throughout the year the Foundation will be hosting events for its members to recognize them for their continued support. With its members support the Foundation has become a leader in backflow prevention and cross-connection control. For a retrospective of the Foundation click HERE.
2015 One Day Update Seminars Announced
The Foundation has announced its 2015 One Day Update Seminars schedule. New topics for 2015 include 'Advanced Field Test Procedures' and 'Assembly Repair and Lead Free Issues.' All dates are available for registration and more information about the seminars may be found HERE.
Remember all USC Foundation members receive 20% discount on training courses and seminars.
Cross Talk Archives: Summer 2013 now available
The Summer 2013 issue addresses hydrants and the possibility of cross-connections. In addition, articles about the Foundation's laboratory/office open house, RP field test and the Foundation's Essentials of Cross-Connection Control, Power Point presentation are included. Download Now.
2015 Training Course Dates Announced
With only a couple of training dates left for 2014 the Foundation has announced its 2015 training course scheduled. All dates are available for registration and may be found by visiting the homepage of this site. Remember all USC Foundation members receive 20% discount on training courses and seminars.
Added a One Day Update Seminar
Due to the overwhelming response to the 'Recycled Water Shutdown Test' One Day Update Seminar the Foundation has added a second date. The seminar is scheduled for December 11, 2014. Click HERE for more information.
Cross Talk Archives: Spring 2013 now available
The Spring 2013 issue offers an in-depth look into the Foundation's Approval Process. In addition, articles documenting the Foundation's office move to a new location and the Foundation's new website design layout are included. Download Now.
Added a One Day Update Seminar
Due to the overwhelming response to the 'Los Angeles & California Codes and Regulations' One Day Update Seminar the Foundation has added a second date. The seminar is scheduled for September 16, 2014. Click HERE for a list of scheduled seminars in 2014.
Cross Talk Archives: Winter 2013 now available
The Winter 2013 issue offers an introduction to the Foundation's One Day Update Seminars. In addition, articles including a list of the Foundation's Charter Members, direction of flow test on the second check of a RP and steps to hosting a Foundation training course. Download Now.
2014 USC List of Approved Backflow Prevention Assemblies now available for purchase
For the first time the Foundation has made the USC List available to purchase as a standalone product. The printed copy of the List contains all the information found on the electronic copy. The 8.5” x 11” printed copy of the USC List includes every assembly currently approved by the USC Foundation thru January 23, 2014. Click HERE to buy now.
Added Retest Date
A retest examination has been scheduled for March 12, 2014. The retest will be taking place at the USC Foundation laboratory. In addition to the Foundation offering a retest, the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) has scheduled a backflow tester & cross-connection control specialist exam at the same location.
If you are interested in the ABPA exam click HERE. The Foundation is not affiliated with the ABPA and therefore anyone interested in taking the ABPA exams must contact the ABPA to register.
Click HERE for more information.
Cross Talk Archives: Autumn 2012 now available
The Autumn 2012 issue offers a look at detector assemblies and the allowable pressure loss across those assemblies. In addition, articles including differences among vacuum breakers, what invalidates a USC Foundation Approval and CEU's at Foundation Training Courses are also included in the issue. Download Now.
Sign-up for 2014 Training Courses
Don't forget to sign-up for one of the USC Foundation's training courses coming up in 2014. January’s Tester training course next month has 2 spot left so sign up today!
January's Specialist training course has spots available.
Plus, sign-up for one of the scheduled One-Day Seminars for 2014. Click HERE for a list of scheduled seminars in 2014. Remember, all attendees receive credit for 6 contact hours or 0.6 CEU’s and lunch is provided.
If you are interested in attending any of the courses or seminars please contact the USC Foundation office or download an order form and mail with payment.
Visit the USC Foundation Booth at the
AWCA 2013 Fall Conference & Exhibition
Come by and visit with USC Foundation staff at the Association of American Water Agencies, Fall Conference & Exhibition taking place on December 3-6 in Los Angeles. The USC Foundation staff will be happy to answer any questions and will have plenty of material on hand regarding backflow prevention and cross-connection control. Click HERE for more information about the conference.
Approval of Backflow Preventers Brochure
Download the Approval Program Brochure and learn about the history of the USC Foundation, how the Standards were created and the approval process. The brochure highlights the laboratory and field evaluation portions of the approval process. Click HERE to download.
ABPA Certification Exam After Tester Course
For 2014, the American Backflow Prevention Association (ABPA) will be administrating a certification exam on the Saturday's of the USC Foundation Tester Training Courses. Course dates may be found on the USC Foundation's homepage HERE.
The USC Foundation reached out to the ABPA to schedule the exam the day after the Tester Training course to facilitate attendees in the class who may be interested in becoming ABPA certified testers. The ABPA exam will take place at the same location as the course. For information about becoming ABPA Tester Certified click HERE.
Students who are taking the Tester Training course will be more than welcome to return on Saturday and take the ABPA testers certification exam. Please note the ABPA exam is NOT part of the USC Tester Training Course and it will be administered by ABPA proctors.
One-Day Seminar Scheduled for 2014
The USC Foundation has set the 2014 schedule for its One-Day Seminars. Topics for the coming year include Hydraulics of Backflow, Los Angeles & California Codes and Regulations, and Recycled Water Shutdown Test. Remember, all attendees who attend the One-Day Seminar will receive credit for 6 contact hours/ 0.6 CEU's. Please visit the One-Day Seminar page HERE for more information.
Registration for the One-Day Seminar may be found on the USC Foundation’s website or attendees may contact the USC Foundation office for more information. SIGN UP NOW
Louisiana Course approved for State CEU's
The USC Foundation's Specialist Training course taking place in the state of Louisiana on 23-27 of September has been approved by Louisiana for its State CEUs (Continuing Education Units). You may sign up for the course by clicking the Order Online link. If you have anymore questions feel free to contact the USC Foundation.
Added Course Dates
Dates for Tester and Specialist Training Courses have been added to the 2014 training calendar. All dates are noted on the USC Foundation homepage. You may register for the course via the USC Foundation website by clicking on the Order Online link.
Added Retest Dates
Retest examinations have been added to the 2014 calendar. Please visit the retest page for more information. Locations for the retest will be confirmed one month prior to the dates listed. All attendees are eligible to retake the exam for up to 12 months after initially taking a USC Foundation training course.
New YouTube Video
A short 4-minute sideshow presentation that highlights the USC Foundation's history and on-goings is now available on the USC Foundation's YouTube Channel.
Reminder: Follow us on social media
To get the latest information about new training course dates, seminars or retest examinations follow the USC Foundation on Twitter and Facebook. And for the latest videos available online, subscribe to the USC Foundation YouTube Channel.
Added Retest Date
A retest examination has been scheduled for August 7, 2013 at the USC Foundation laboratory. All attendees are eligible to retake the exam for up to 12 months after initially taking a USC Foundation training course. Download Retest Flyer
Added Retest Date
A retest examination has been scheduled for July 19, 2013 at the USC Foundation office. All attendees are eligible to retake the exam for up to 12 months after initially taking a USC Foundation training course. Download Retest Flyer
Added Tester Course Date
A Tester Training Course date has been added to the 2013 schedule. It will take place on October 7-11, 2013 in Los Angeles, CA. There are no prerequisites to attend a Tester Training Course. The week-long and all day course concludes with a written and hands-on final examination. Click HERE for more information.
Added Retest Date
A retest examination has been scheduled for June 28, 2013 at the USC Foundation laboratory. All attendees are eligible to retake the exam for up to 12 months after initially taking a USC Foundation training course. DownloadRetest Flyer
New USC List Web App
Check out the new USC Foundation List Web App, designed for mobile devices. The web app allows users to search for USC approved backflow prevention assemblies by using information such as manufacture name, type of assembly or size. It is an ideal tool for the backflow prevention assembly tester or cross-connection control specialist who are on the go.
New Website Design
The new design for the first time introduces a 'search' feature to the site. Visitors will now be able to search the USC Foundation's website with a click of a button. Also, for the first time ever, every single archive issue of Cross Talk dating back to 1967 is available for download.
Office Move
The USC Foundation will be moving to a new location on the border of the USC campus. The new location provides the USC Foundation with larger office space, which will include a new training room. The new training room will host the USC Foundation's training courses and one-day update seminars.
Added Seminar Date
After a successful USC Foundation One Day seminar the USC foundation as scheduled the next One Day Seminar for July 22, 2013. The seminar will refresh attendees on the field test procedures. And, all attendees who attend are eligible to receive 0.6 CEU's (Continuing Education Units).
Click HERE for more information.