Backflow Prevention Training
OTCO's Backflow Prevention Training Program prepares operators and water supply employees to test, inspect, and administer backflow prevention programs in compliance with Ohio Administrative Code.
About the Program
The Backflow Prevention courses were developed to provide training for the administrators, operators, and backflow prevention program employees of public water supply systems. The program can also assist water purveyors in meeting Ohio Administrative Code #3745-95 backflow prevention requirements.
Upon successfully completing the Backflow Prevention (Weeklong) course, you will be issued a certificate of competency and recognized as qualified to describe the principles of backflow, determine appropriate backflow prevention assemblies, discuss Ohio laws and rules, implement and administer a local backflow prevention program, and inspect and test backflow prevention assemblies.
A water supply employee may be eligible to sit for the State of Ohio Department of Commerce Backflow Tester Certification after completing the class.
Backflow Prevention (Weeklong) Course Information
Face-to-Face Courses
Course Objectives
- Describe the principles, causes and theory of backpressure and backsiphonage backflow
- Discuss degree of hazard and the available methods of backflow prevention protection
- Determine the appropriate backflow prevention assembly or method to protect against a hazard
- Discuss Ohio laws, rules, and regulations
- Implement and administer your local backflow prevention program
- Inspect and test backflow prevention assemblies
A water supply employee may be eligible to sit for the State of Ohio Department of Commerce "Backflow Tester" Certification after the class.
NEW LOCATIONS COMING FOR 2027
Click here to view current locationsBackflow Refresher (Renewal) Course Information
In-person Backflow Refresher Course (8hrs)
The intent of the Backflow Refresher course is to reiterate the primary concepts, methods and practices that were presented in the initial Backflow Prevention course, along with updates on new information that has developed since you completed the initial course.
Prerequisites
- Individuals who have successfully completed the OTCO 36.00 hr. Backflow Prevention Course.
- Individuals who have successfully completed an OTCO Backflow Course in 2023.
This is an 8 hour Refresher Course for those who's license expire 12/31/2026.
If you have completed the online extension course this is not the course for you to sign up to complete your hands-on.
YOU MUST BE APPROVED BY OTCO TO TAKE THESE COURSES. YOU WILL RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION EMAIL. DO NOT JUST SHOW UP TO THE COURSE.
Last Refresher December 15th
Click here to view current locationsFuture Backflow Site Request
Interested in hosting a future Backflow Prevention course at your facility? Submit a site request and OTCO will consider your location for upcoming course scheduling.
backflow@otco.orgIntro to Backflow Course Information
Intro to Backflow Webinar
The principles of Backflow, the risks associated with backflow, the public water system's responsibility under State law, the methods employed to prevent backflow, and be given an opportunity to disassemble a backflow prevention assembly.
Join the interactive webinar from your home or office computer.
If you would like to have an Intro to Backflow Course please email:
backflow@otco.orgBackflow Survey Course Information
Backflow Surveying Face-to-Face
Laws and rules have been written and developed to protect both the public inside and outside the building from cross-connections between potable and non-potable water supplies. This course is aimed at identifying the levels of hazards that are typically found inside residential, commercial and industrial establishments and types of protection offered.
Prerequisites
- Individuals who have successfully completed the OTCO 36.00 hr. Backflow Prevention Course between 2023–2026.
THIS IS A 2-DAY FACE-TO-FACE COURSE.
A Surveying manual will be mailed out to you.
Backflow Training Videos
Click on the desired video below. Watch each video before coming to class.
- 1. Intro Video
- 2. Pressure Differential Gauge
- 3. Double Check Valve Assembly
- 4. Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer
- 5. Pressure Vacuum Breaker
- 6. ASSE 1015 Double Check Valve Assembly
- 7. ASSE 1013 Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer Teardown
- 8. ASSE 1020 Pressure Vacuum Breaker Teardown
- 9. Backflow Prevention in a Residential Setting
Certified Testers List
View the current list of OTCO-certified backflow testers in Ohio.
View Certified Testers ListBackflow Tester Form
Submit your backflow tester information or update your certification records using the form below.
Backflow Tester FormQuestions About Backflow Training?
Contact OTCO's Backflow Coordinator for registration assistance or course information.