It would be in the Best interest for the Commonwealth of Virginia to maintain and strengthen the backflow testing programs, as well as the the Cross Connections program throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.  Water is an element that is essential to life. There’s not one living organism that can survive without water. By having someone unqualified to insure the safety of the drinking water is met is a disaster waiting to  happen. We will make the world news for the wrong reasons.  The backflow device worker must show they are competent to pass a written test while also providing factual evidence that have the necessary time in service.  We would like to see the backflow device worker be treated just like any other tradesman.   They are held to same standards and obligation as any other DPOR certified tradesman.  The tradesman name should also be change to reflect the person as a certified “Backflow Prevention Tester”.    The title “worker” gives a false impression the tester can replace the assembly.  A tester can only repair and test.   If they are certified in other fields then they can replace the assembly.   The tradesman should also be required to have a minimum of 16 hours of continued training/education at a minimum of every 9-10 years since the plumbing codes changes every 4-8 years.