The 2018 ASSE International Mid-Year Meeting was held April 10-11 at the ASSE International Office in Mokena, IL. More than 10 meetings were held during this two-day event and much was accomplished. See below for photos and brief re-caps of each meeting.
Cross-Connection Control Technical Committee Meeting
During the Cross-Connection Control Technical Committee meeting, ASSE’s new test platform was discussed. This new testing platform will be available in the next couple of months. The committee will be reviewing and categorizing questions, and a sub-committee has been created to determine online requirements and evaluate proposed online training.
Product Standards Committee Meeting
The PSC met and discussed updates from ASSE working groups and project teams. The committee discussed the ASSE 1082, 1084, and 1085 standards, as they are prominently referenced in many code proposals. The group discussed an issue with ASSE 1024, continuous pressure performance requirements, language guidance for the working groups and project teams, a sampling interpretation for the Seal Control Board, and discussed the reaffirmation of ASSE 1056.
Infection Control (ASSE 12000) Technical Committee Meeting
An update of the infection control certification program was given, including the total number of certified individuals and the number of schools approved to offer the program. Reports were given concerning how and where the program is being promoted. There was also discussion concerning the additional certifications that will be added to the ASSE Series 12000 in the near future.
Seal Control Board Meeting
Chairperson Jim Finley oversaw the Seal Control Board (SCB) meeting on April 10. Conrad Jahrling, Staff Engineering Supervisor, Jason Shank, Region 6 Director, and Tim Reising, Technical Project Manager, presented updates on product standards, codes, and the product listing program. The SCB selected several special topics to discuss and review, including product bracketing and sampling sizes. The SCB also worked on continuous improvement and reviewed the results of the latest improvements to balloting performance. Several changes to the SCB procedures were also reviewed and discussed. Finally, the SCB conducted training on bracketing, balloting procedures, ASSE standard / LERF improvement logs, and paperwork requirements.
Service Plumber Technical Committee Meeting
The Service Plumber Technical Committee reviewed information on the schools, instructors, and proctors that are approved to offer the ASSE 13010 certification program. Exam questions were also reviewed.
Un-bowl-ievable Event
For the first time, ASSE added a social event to the Mid-Year Meeting schedule. On Tuesday night, attendees had fun at Frankfort Bowl & Billiards with “old school” bowling alleys and pool tables. Pizza, pasta, and chicken was served and everyone had a chance to network, play games, and hang out.
ASSE 1086/1087 Working Group Meeting
The ASSE 1086 and 1087 working groups met to finalize revisions of the draft standards. ASSE 1087, for commercial water systems, is out for ballot, but ASSE 1086 still requires some consideration of baseline testing of reverse osmosis systems of “standard” efficiency. Both groups were very productive and we look forward to finalizing these standards in the near future.
Code Committee Meeting
The Code Committee met to go over current proposals for the 2021 IPC and UPC. The group reviewed how each proposal references ASSE’s standards and voted in support, not in support, or neutral for each. This allowed for ASSE’s representatives to put forth ASSE’s position, as finalized by the Board of Directors.
Membership Meeting
For the first time at the Mid-Year Meeting, an open meeting was held for all interested members of ASSE International. There was discussion about the value of membership and how we can reach out to ASSE members who represent different membership categories. Member value statements will be developed in an effort to better meet the needs of existing members and encourage new members to join ASSE International.
Professional Qualifications Standards Committee Meeting
The PQ Standards Committee reviewed the status of each professional qualifications standard, both current and draft. The revision of the Series 6000 medical gas standard was discussed at length. The revision is expected to be completed in the next few months. The Series 12000, for infection control, will be put into revision to add more standards and to modify the existing name of the series. A standards development training session was also conducted concerning due process, lack of dominance, and openness.
Professional Qualifications Technical Committee Meeting
The PQ Technical Committee is made up of the chairpersons of each of the professional qualifications technical committees, the chairperson of the PQ Standards Committee, and the ASSE International President. The committee discussed ASSE’s various certification programs and shared ideas for improving programs.
If these meetings sound interesting, you should join us Oct. 15-18 in Ft. Lauderdale at the 2018 ASSE International Annual Meeting for four days of education, input, networking, idea sharing, advice, and camaraderie.
At the ASSE International Annual Meeting, experts from all segments of the industry gather to participate in meetings, attend educational seminars and courses, celebrate member achievements, and network with professionals.
For 112 years, ASSE International has been bringing the industry together to improve the performance and reliability of products and professionals. By working together, we protect the health and safety of the public.
See you in October!
