Plumbing systems are essential for modern life, providing access to clean water and ensuring safe waste removal. Behind the scenes, organizations like the American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) play a vital role in upholding public health by establishing rigorous standards for plumbing products, systems, and professionals.
This article explores how the ASSE protects public health, the significance of its certifications, and why its work is critical for the plumbing industry and beyond.
What is the ASSE?
The American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing plumbing and mechanical systems’ safety, performance, and innovation. Founded in 1906, ASSE develops product performance standards and certification programs that ensure:
- Public health protection: Safeguarding water supplies and preventing contamination.
- System efficiency: Promoting best practices for reliable and efficient plumbing.
- Industry excellence: Certifying professionals who meet the highest technical and ethical standards.
By focusing on these principles, ASSE remains a cornerstone of the plumbing industry.
The Role of ASSE in Plumbing Standards
ASSE standards focus on the safety and reliability of plumbing products and systems. These standards address critical areas such as:
Backflow Prevention
One of ASSE’s most vital contributions is the development of backflow prevention standards to stop contaminants from entering potable water supplies. ASSE-certified devices, such as:
- Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) assemblies
- Double-check valve assemblies
- Atmospheric vacuum breakers
ensure the safety of water systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Fixture Safety
ASSE establishes guidelines for plumbing fixtures, including:
- Anti-scald devices: Protecting users from hot water burns.
- Automatic temperature control valves: Ensuring water temperature remains safe for use.
Cross-connection Control
ASSE standards help prevent cross-connections, which could allow hazardous substances to mix with drinking water.
ASSE Certification Programs

ASSE’s certification programs demonstrate a commitment to quality and public health. These programs certify:
- Plumbing products: Ensuring they meet performance and safety requirements.
- Professional qualifications: Verifying the expertise of plumbers, pipefitters, and other specialists.
- Backflow testers and repairers: Training individuals to install and maintain crucial safety devices.
Certifications like ASSE 1016 (for temperature-actuated mixing valves) and ASSE 1070 (for point-of-use scald protection valves) are benchmarks of safety and reliability in the plumbing industry.
Your Trusted Plumbers in Hatfield, PA
At Heiland Services, we understand the importance of ASSE standards in protecting public health and ensuring plumbing system reliability. Our certified plumbers are trained to install, maintain, and repair systems that comply with these rigorous guidelines.
Contact Heiland Services today to schedule your plumbing service in Hatfield, PA, and experience the peace of mind that comes from working with professionals who prioritize safety and quality.