This class covers essential field and safety practices for water distribution operators. Topics include fire hydrant operation, inspection, flushing, and maintenance; proper laboratory sampling techniques for regulatory and process control; formation, monitoring, and control of disinfection by-products (DBPs); operator safety procedures in the field; and the Alabama 811 “Call Before You Dig” system for locating underground utilities before excavation.
| From | Until | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00 AM | 09:00 AM | Risk and Resilience Assesments and Emergency Response Plans This session will provide water and wastewater operators with practical guidance on assessing system risks and vulnerabilities, strengthening resilience measures, and implementing effective emergency response plans to maintain service continuity and protect public health during disruptions. Jon Lowe/ ARWA |
| 09:00 AM | 10:00 AM | Fire Hydrants and Maintenance This class provides an overview of fire hydrant design, operation, and the critical role they play in water distribution systems for fire protection. Participants will learn best practices for hydrant inspection, maintenance and repair to ensure reliability and compliance with safety standards Davis Roy/ Mueller |
| 10:00 AM | 11:30 AM | Disinfection Byproducts and Proper Lab Sampling Technique This portion of the class explains how disinfection byproducts (DBPs) form and the factors that influence their development in drinking water systems. Participants will learn practical strategies for monitoring, managing, and reducing DBPs to maintain regulatory compliance and water quality. ERA Labs |
| 11:30 AM | 12:30 PM | Lunch On Your Own |
| 12:30 PM | 01:30 PM | Alabama 811 This session will familiarize water and wastewater operators with Alabama 811 procedures, including how to respond to locate requests, properly mark underground utilities, comply with one-call regulations, and help prevent excavation damage to water and wastewater infrastructure. Jeff Bice/ Alabama 811 |
| 01:30 PM | 03:00 PM | Treatment Plant Operator Safety Safety in a water treatment plant is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of both workers and the community. Proper safety measures help prevent contamination, accidents, and chemical exposures that could lead to severe health risks. Jon Lowe/ ARWA |
| 03:00 PM | 04:00 PM | ADEM Operator Certification Online System (OPCERT) Learn to use the Alabama Operator Certification online system. Participants will learn how to access their accounts, manage certification information, submit applications, track certification status, and complete other essential online tasks related to operator certification. Jon Lowe/ ARWA |
Jon Lowe
Class Moderator